Sources: Steelers' Interest In Trading Star CB Joey Porter Jr Gets Exposed

As the Pittsburgh Steelers take on the New York Jets for their second preseason game of 2026, the organization is still in the middle of trying to extend star cornerback Joey Porter Jr. for the foreseeable future. Rumors and speculation have picked up this past week as far as what might happen to the 26-year-old, but on Friday, Steelers insider Mark Kaboly shed more light on the situation.

Reports have recently thrown out the idea that the Steelers are listening to trade offers. If the Black and Gold can't reach an agreeable deal with Porter, this would be the likely next best option. Kaboly did the digging for himself however, and took to social media to share what he found.

"Did some snooping around and the Steelers haven't gotten a single inquiry about trading Joey Porter Jr. and haven't made any calls either, per multiple league sources," Kaboly tweeted. "The Steelers have zero interest in trading Porter unless there is a crazy offer (two first-rounders or something like that). As for getting a deal done by Sept 13? ..."

Per Kaboly's investigation, the Steelers have no interest in dealing their young defensive back. It would take a massive draft haul (like two first-round picks) for the organization to even consider something like that, according to the insider. With that thought seemingly put to bed, the question remains whether the Steelers can get an extension done with Porter by the start of the regular season. They take on the Atlanta Falcons Week 1 at Acrisure Stadium in Pittsburgh, PA. The Steelers don't normally do business like this during the regular season, so getting a deal done before then is crucial.

The longer the team waits, the more of an advantage they apparently might have over Porter as well. It has been recently reported that he does not want to play on the franchise tag, but he risks playing in 2026 without a new deal, getting hurt, and losing out on upwards of $30 million per year.

The Steelers still have a little over three weeks to work something out with Porter, but fans can at least seemingly breathe a sigh of relief that No. 24 is staying in Pittsburgh. The front office has already crafted new deals with outside linebacker Nick Herbig, tight end Darnell Washington, and defensive lineman Keeanu Benton. All these players come from Porter's draft class in 2023.

Steelers Are In Good Hands Without Porter On The Field

Since training camp began, other defensive backs have stepped up in Porter's absence. Jalen Ramsey and Brandin Echols have also missed time in recent weeks due to injury, which has created even more opportunities for other options in the secondary. Players like Asante Samuel Jr. and rookie Daylen Everette have particularly made the most out of this current situation. They have made big plays, including a Samuel pass breakup early in the game against the Green Bay Packers back in Week 1 of the preseason. Everette was in great position on several deep passes last week as well, and both players will look to continue their efficient play against the Jets come Friday evening.

Other names to watch out for at cornerback are Devan Boykin, Doneiko Slaughter, D'Shawn Jamison, and Daryl Porter. All four reserve players are likely to receive extensive playing time during the last two games of the preseason. 

What do you think about Mark Kaboly's latest report on the Pittsburgh Steelers' lack of interest in trading star cornerback Joey Porter Jr? Do you think the team gets a deal done by Week 1 in mid-September? Let us know on social media and follow us for more news and updates!

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