Mike McCarthy: Steelers, Joey Porter Jr. are at "impasse"
NBC Sports • • sports
Key Points:
- Steelers coach Mike McCarthy confirmed ongoing contract disputes with rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who remains on the Physically Unable to Perform list and has not practiced during training camp.
- Porter, a 2023 first-round pick entering the final year of his rookie contract, is seeking a new deal, but the team and player are currently at an impasse.
- McCarthy emphasized the challenge of separating business from football and expressed a desire to coach Porter, but acknowledged the stalemate due to differing contract beliefs.
- The Steelers face a critical decision if the hold-in continues into Week 1, as they have a policy against renegotiating contracts after the season starts, potentially leading to trading Porter or playing hardball.
- The situation mirrors recent NFL cases where teams have traded players unable to play due to contract or injury issues, highlighting the Steelers' limited options if no resolution is reached soon.
