Steelers Rookie Cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Is Picking Up Things Quickly For The Team's Defense Heading Into 2023 Season

The Pittsburgh Steelers' selection of Joey Porter Jr. in the second-round of the 2023 NFL Draft helped to fill one of the most noticeable voids on the team's defense going in to the 2023 season. While it is yet to be seen whether or not Porter will be a day-one starter for the Steelers this upcoming season, there is reason to believe that he sees the field consistently during his rookie campaign. 

During a recent interview following the Steelers' offseason training activities (OTAs) on 05/31/2023, Porter discussed how he feels his style of play will translate from his collegiate days at Penn State to his current role with the Steelers. 

"Me and Coach Grady [Brown] have been going over that, going through some of my old tape, going through the tapes I've been through now at practice and seeing the difference in how I play the game. I feel like we're learning pretty quickly, so I'm good right now," said Porter in regards to how he approaches his style of play with the Steelers. 

A Match Made In Heaven: How Patrick Peterson Can Help Porter Become An Elite-Level Corner For The Steelers

While Porter still has a ways to go in terms of his level of play at the professional level, there is perhaps no better mentor for him than former All-Pro corner, Patrick Peterson. The two already had a relationship prior to Porter being drafted by the Steelers, and have shared their excitement in getting to share the field together in 2023. During the interview on 05/31/2023, Porter talked about what it means to play alongside a player who looked up to during his childhood. 

"Man, he's been great. He's really taken me under his wing, showing me the ropes. I'm glad to have him on my squad, because without him, I wouldn't be able to learn so much about the game so fast like I am right now," answered Porter when asked about playing with Peterson in 2023. 

During the limited amount of practices the Steelers have had thus far, it has already become evident that Peterson has already assumed a mentor role for both Porter as well 2023 seventh-round selection, Cory Trice Jr. With the Steelers already possessing a solid veteran duo at corner with Peterson and Levi Wallace, the team is in a tremendous position to bring along both Porter and Trice slowly this offseason. There is no denying the amount of talent that the 2023 draft picks have, but it will undoubtedly take time for the young players to adjust to playing in the NFL. 

What Should Steelers' Fans Expect Out Of Porter In 2023? 

There is a reason why Porter was given a first-round draft grade by many experts, the kid can play. Furthermore, his impressive size at 6'2" and 190 pounds combined with his impressive athleticism make him a legitimate candidate to challenge Wallace as the team's starting outside corner this upcoming season. He will certainly need to "clean up" certain aspects of his game, but this is something that should not concern anyone, as he will have more than enough time to learn the ins and outs of playing in the NFL. 

The AFC North currently possesses a trio of teams that are highly effectively offensively, which makes raises the demand for a solid collection of defensive backs for the Steelers even higher. Ultimately, it may take a few games for Porter to fully take over the role as a starter opposite of Peterson. With that being said, it is more likely than not that the team plays in nickel and dime defensive formations extensively next season, which will allow for Porter, Peterson, and Wallace to all be on the field together. 

Thoughts, Steeler Nation?

How do you feel about the recent Porter interview? Are you confident he will contribute right away in 2023? What are your expectations for Trice? Be sure to let us know in the comments! 

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