Steelers Hear Wild Claim About Joey Porter Jr's Next Contract

It’s no secret that the Pittsburgh Steelers feel like they hit a home run at cornerback with Joey Porter Jr. The son of former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter Sr. was drafted 32nd overall in 2023 as the first pick of the second round. Because of that, he does not have a fifth-year option, which could force Pittsburgh’s hand when it comes to locking him up long term. Porter is set to become a free agent after the 2026 season when his rookie contract officially expires. The general expectation is that the Steelers will eventually sign him to a massive extension.

Porter is likely going to command top-of-market money. The Steelers normally wait until training camp begins to negotiate extensions, and there is little reason to believe that approach has changed. If Porter does not get an extension done before the 2026 season begins, it is fair to assume he will not get one until after the season ends. However, many believe the Steelers would prefer to get ahead of the situation and lock him up before Week 1. This will be something Steelers fans monitor very closely.

The Steelers also added veteran cornerback Jamel Dean to line up opposite Porter on the outside. Pittsburgh now has more stability in the secondary with Dean, while Jalen Ramsey is expected to see time at safety and in the slot. The team also has Asante Samuel Jr. in the mix along with rookie Daylen Everette and other depth pieces in the room. While it feels like a foregone conclusion that the Steelers will quickly hand Porter a massive extension, former Steelers linebacker Terence Garvin recently joined The Arthur Moats Experience and revealed a controversial take on Porter’s future.

"Do we pay JPJ? I think JPJ, as crazy as it sounds, as much as he is balling, I just think he is still fighting for what he is supposed to go get," Garvin said while speaking to former Steelers linebacker Arthur Moats on Monday. "He needs to have a good year this year [in 2026]. You got to think they just gave Dean that money. I don't think, yeah, I guess I just think he still has to finish up everything. I think the [fact that] he is a JPJ helps, and it counts. I think they are doing a great job of the father-son element right now because business is business. They are trying to get that bag. You can see it building for sure."

Still, the bigger picture in Pittsburgh is hard to ignore. Porter has already established himself as one of the more reliable young cornerbacks in the league, and the Steelers clearly view him as a foundational piece of their defense moving forward. 

Even with other moves in the secondary, his development and production have made him worthy of a big payday in the eyes of many. Garvin still believes that Porter hasn't done enough yet.

Steelers Fans Will Be Thrilled With A Joey Porter Jr. Extension

The financial side of the equation is where things get complicated. With veteran additions already on the books and future cap planning always in play, the Steelers will have to balance timing, value, and internal priorities before committing to a massive second contract. That is why discussions like Garvin’s only add fuel to an already interesting situation.

For now, everything points to a waiting game heading into the 2026 season, but Steeler Nation knows how quickly things can change in the NFL. Steelers fans will celebrate a Porter extension if it happens soon.

Please feel free to share your Steelers takes and thoughts with me on X (@anthonyghalkias) and consider following for more Steelers-related content and discussion. I’m always open to hearing different perspectives, breaking down games, and talking all things Pittsburgh football. 

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