Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. on playing without deal: 'I don't know'
Key Points:
- Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr., entering the final year of his rookie contract, remained noncommittal about playing without a contract extension amid ongoing negotiations.
- Porter recently returned to practice after a back injury that sidelined him during training camp and preseason, but his readiness for Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons is still uncertain.
- He expressed uncertainty about the delay in contract talks and emphasized that the decision is up to the team's management, while he continues to focus on preparing and working hard.
- Porter has sought advice from his father, former Steelers player Joey Porter Sr., and received support from teammates, including Cameron Heyward, who encouraged him to not take negotiations personally.
- Meanwhile, the Steelers have extended contracts for three other members of Porter's draft class, and Porter expressed happiness for their success despite the challenges in his own negotiations.