Mike McCarthy: Steelers at contract 'impasse' with CB Joey Porter Jr.

Key Points:

• Steelers coach Mike McCarthy and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. are at an "impasse" in contract negotiations, with Porter currently on the physically unable to perform list due to a back issue.
• Porter, in the final year of his rookie contract, has not participated fully in training camp amid ongoing contract talks and injury concerns, while other members of his draft class have already been re-signed.
• The cornerback market is highly competitive, with top players recently signing lucrative deals, and Porter believes he deserves similar compensation based on his performance.
• Veteran defensive back Jalen Ramsey and rookie offensive tackle Max Iheanachor have returned to practice, with Ramsey emphasizing the importance of having Porter available for the season opener against Atlanta on September 13.
• McCarthy acknowledged the challenges of the situation, noting the entire defensive staff is new and the organization holds firm contract beliefs, making the resolution uncertain as the preseason progresses.