Joey Porter Jr. could make his Dallas Cowboys debut this Sunday against the Houston Texans after recovering from a back injury that kept him out of the Pittsburgh Steelers’ training camp, preseason, and first three regular season games. The fourth-year cornerback was ruled out for the Steelers’ Week 4 game against the Cleveland Browns but has already started practicing with Dallas, raising questions about his health during his final days with Pittsburgh.
Dallas head coach Brian Schottenheimer told reporters after Thursday’s practice that Porter “moved around good today” and called it “a positive first day.” The cornerback was not listed on the Cowboys’ injury report, suggesting he might be ready for action soon. ESPN first reported that Porter could be available for the Cowboys this weekend.
Porter’s swift return to practice with Dallas contrasts with the Steelers’ timeline, fueling speculation that his injury may have been overstated amid contract tensions. Some observers linked the injury absence to his reported holdout for a new deal. Porter appeared to find the idea amusing, laughing off comments about his back feeling fine in Dallas.
After the trade, Porter opened up about his experience in Pittsburgh, saying he felt “disrespected” and “undervalued.” Speaking to reporters via the Cowboys’ official website, he said, “That’s old news now. That’s how I look at it. I’m onto new beginnings, new chapters. I’m a Cowboy, I’m in Dallas, so I’m happy about that.” His clear departure from the Steelers included frustration over contract negotiations that remain unresolved with Dallas.
Despite the ongoing contract talks, Porter expressed a strong desire to remain with the Cowboys long term. “I’m down with it if they are,” he told The Athletic’s Jon Machota. “I want to finish my career here.” The cornerback’s eagerness to settle in Dallas contrasts with his recent disenchantment with Pittsburgh, where he was the Steelers’ second-round pick in 2023, the 32nd overall selection out of Penn State.
Porter’s tenure with Pittsburgh saw him appear in 47 games over three NFL seasons, recording 52 tackles, 14 passes defended, and three interceptions last season alone. But the latest move shows a clear break with the Steelers as Porter seeks a fresh start with the Cowboys, who traded for him on Wednesday.
Porter’s situation highlights ongoing contract disputes that can affect player availability and team dynamics. The Cowboys and Porter still need to finalize a new contract, but his quick recovery and positive attitude suggest both sides are eager to move forward.
Porter’s availability for Sunday’s game remains unconfirmed, but Dallas’ optimism after Thursday’s practice points to a speedy integration into their defensive backfield.
According to Yahoo Sports.
