Tag: Joey Porter Jr.

Steelers land top CB prospect in latest 2025 NFL mock draft

The Pittsburgh Steelers bolster their secondary in the latest NFL mock draft, landing a top CB prospect to pair with Joey Porter Jr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ late-season defensive collapse may have fallen on their inability to stop the run, but arguably, the weakest positional unit on defense was the cornerback room.

Outside of CB Joey Porter Jr., who also struggled with penalties in 2024, the Steelers lacked a true lockdown CB2. In an era where teams are passing the ball more than ever, finding two elite CBs has never been more important—and that’s exactly what the Steel City accomplished in the NFL’s latest mock draft.

NFL Draft analyst Eric Edholm projected that the Steelers would land Michigan CB Will Johnson with the 21st overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Edholm supported this decision with the following statement:

“I don’t believe Johnson is the top-10 lock some seem to think he is, with the big corner facing injury and speed questions ahead of the NFL Scouting Combine, but his skill set could bolster Pittsburgh’s secondary.”

If the Pittsburgh Steelers manage to land Johnson, opposing quarterbacks would have a tough time finding open receivers, as the Michigan CB would form an incredible duo with Porter.

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Cory Trice Jr’s Week 18 struggles fall on team’s inability to adapt

Cory Trice Jr.’s struggles against Ja’Marr Chase in Week 18 highlight the Steelers’ recent failures to adjust defensively.

Several positional mismatches are to blame for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ Week 18 loss, and one of the biggest was CB Cory Trice Jr. versus WR Ja’Marr Chase.

Trice, positioning himself as the future of the Steelers’ secondary—and still very well could be—struggled mightily against Chase. However, the Steelers’ defensive coaching adjustments offered little support.

The young corner was tasked with covering the projected 2024 Triple Crown winner in Chase and immediately gave up a touchdown on the first drive.

The commentary crew echoed what every Steelers fan was thinking: why was there no safety help? Help would remain scarce as Chase continued to tear apart the Steelers’ defense.

Eventually, the Steelers’ coaches switched starting lock-down CB Joey Porter Jr. to Chase’s side, and Black and Gold defensive success followed. however, the damage was already done, as Chase finished the night with 96 receiving yards and a TD on 10 receptions.

Although Trice’s elite play in Week 17 led to disappointment in Week 18, DC Teryl Austin and HC Mike Tomlin must be held accountable for not making a change earlier in the game—or providing Trice additional help over the top.

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Cory Trice Jr’s elite play puts Steelers in an awkward position

Cory Trice Jr.’s stellar play creates a tough decision for the Steelers with Joey Porter Jr.’s and Donte Jackson’s potential return.

In what can only be described as a great problem to have, Cory Trice Jr.’s fantastic coverage abilities over the past two weeks have created another positional battle for fans to keep their eyes on.

Trice has stepped up admirably in the absence of injured starting cornerbacks Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson. However, with the duo seemingly prepared to make their long-awaited return against the Cincinnati Bengals in Week 18, Trice now finds himself as the odd man out of the starting lineup, despite arguably playing as the best defender in the Steelers’ secondary in Week 17.

Porter infamously caused six costly penalties against the Bengals in his efforts to cover wide receiver Tee Higgins back in Week 13, and Jackson gave up a touchdown in that contest as well.

With the Pittsburgh Steelers’ secondary scrambling for answers regarding their role in the second-half collapse of the once-dominant Black and Gold defense, Trice could be the perfect solution opposite either Porter or Jackson if changes in coverage are needed.

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Benching Steelers veteran CB could alleviate defensive struggles

Cameron Sutton’s struggles in coverage call for changes in the Steelers secondary as the defense scrambles for improvement.

The grass isn’t always greener, and the Pittsburgh Steelers have learned this the hard way with veteran slot corner Cameron Sutton starting over rookie Beanie Bishop Jr.

Despite strong performances from Bishop, Sutton took over the starting slot CB role after returning from his eight-game suspension for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy.

Sutton has remained strong against the run but has struggled significantly against opposing passing attacks—an area of major concern for the Steelers defense over the past few weeks.

Injuries have forced Sutton into an expanded role for the Steelers, as his versatility allows him to play outside in addition to his natural position in the slot. However, these opportunities have only emphasized the need to bench Sutton.

CBs Cory Trice Jr. and James Pierre fit the Steelers’ needs better as outside man-coverage corners, and Bishop has already proven he can create splash plays from the slot.

With that in mind, the first step to addressing the Steelers’ defensive struggles seems simple: bench Sutton and let Trice, Pierre, and Bishop take over the secondary until CBs Joey Porter Jr. and Donte Jackson are fully healthy.

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Surprising second-year defender could be Steelers CB of the future

Cory Trice Jr. made his mark on the Steelers’ defense in Week 17, proving his potential after overcoming a challenging rookie setback.

On a Pittsburgh Steelers defense that has struggled mightily over the past two weeks, one defender has stood out—CB Cory Trice Jr.

The second-year corner—drafted out of Purdue University with the 243rd pick in the seventh round of the 2023 NFL Draft—saw his draft stock plummet after teams were worried about his injury history.

To make matters worse, before Trice could prove to the NFL that teams made a mistake letting him fall to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the seventh round, he tore his ACL during training camp in 2023, ending his rookie season before it even began.

An injury that forced starting CB Joey Porter Jr. to miss Week 17’s contest against the Kansas City Chiefs put a tremendous amount of pressure on Trice, and the young CB delivered.

PFF paid respect to Trice’s elite play—which saw the CB allow only two receptions for 12 yards—with an impressive grade of 90.1, the second highest among all Steelers defenders in Week 17.

Trice could provide the Steelers with an affordable option at corner if the team moves on from CB Donte Jackson in the 2025 offseason.

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Is Joey Porter Jr. playing today? Injury updates for the Steelers’ CB

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is dealing with a knee injury sustained in loss to Baltimore Ravens. Here’s the latest update.

Joey Porter Jr. (knee) is officially ruled out for this afternoon’s pivotal Christmas Day showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Porter, a standout in Pittsburgh’s secondary, has been instrumental in locking down opposing receivers, and his absence could create a significant gap. Patrick Mahomes, known for his precision and ability to exploit defensive mismatches, will likely target the Steelers’ weakened secondary with Porter sidelined. Look for veteran James Pierre and second-year player Cory Trice Jr. to step up.

The Steelers’ defensive unit, already facing a challenging task, must adjust quickly to contain Kansas City’s high-powered offense. Key players like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith must apply pressure while depth players attempt to cover for Porter’s absence. This injury could heavily influence the playoff implications of this holiday showdown.

Joey Porter Jr. injury update

Porter sustained the injury during the Week 16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, raising concerns about their defense against Patrick Mahomes and his receiving weapons.

How long will Joey Porter Jr. be out?

The Steelers are likely to err on the side of caution with Porter. The Steelers need to win their final two games to stay competitive with the Baltimore Ravens (who face the Texans and Browns) and keep their hopes of winning the AFC North alive. However, with a playoff berth already in sight, having Porter healthy and ready for the postseason will be crucial.

Steelers cornerback depth chart

Fellow cornerback Donte Jackson (back) was sidelined for Week 16 but, thankfully, is back in the lineup this week. With Porter out, the Steelers will turn to a combination of Pierre and Trice at outside cornerback alongside Jackson.

Here’s a look at Pittsburgh’s depth chart.

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Will Joey Porter Jr. play this week? Injury updates for Steelers CB

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is dealing with a knee injury sustained in loss to Baltimore Ravens. Here’s the latest update.

Joey Porter Jr. (knee) is officially ruled out for the Pittsburgh Steelers’ pivotal Christmas Day showdown with the Kansas City Chiefs.

Porter, a standout in Pittsburgh’s secondary, has been instrumental in locking down opposing receivers, and his absence could create a significant gap. Patrick Mahomes, known for his precision and ability to exploit defensive mismatches, will likely target the Steelers’ weakened secondary with Porter sidelined. Look for veteran James Pierre and second-year player Cory Trice Jr. to step up.

The Steelers’ defensive unit, already facing a challenging task, must adjust quickly to contain Kansas City’s high-powered offense. Key players like T.J. Watt and Alex Highsmith must apply pressure while depth players attempt to cover for Porter’s absence. This injury could heavily influence the playoff implications of this holiday showdown.

Joey Porter Jr. injury update

Porter sustained the injury during the Week 16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens, raising concerns about their defense against Patrick Mahomes and his receiving weapons.

How long will Joey Porter Jr. be out?

The Steelers are likely to err on the side of caution with Porter. The Steelers need to win their final two games to stay competitive with the Baltimore Ravens (who face the Texans and Browns) and keep their hopes of winning the AFC North alive. However, with a playoff berth already in sight, having Porter healthy and ready for the postseason will be crucial.

Steelers cornerback depth chart

Fellow cornerback Donte Jackson (back) was sidelined for Week 16 but, thankfully, is back in the lineup this week. With Porter out, the Steelers will turn to a combination of Pierre and Trice at outside cornerback alongside Jackson.

Here’s a look at Pittsburgh’s depth chart.

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Steelers vs Chiefs: Kansas City injury updates

Chris Jones and both Chiefs starting tack.les on on their final injury report

On Tuesday, the Kansas City Chiefs put out their game status report for their Christmas Day showdown with the Pittsburgh Steelers. For the Steelers, they will be minus starting cornerback Joey Porter Jr. but do get back several injured players including wide receiver George Pickens.

For the Chiefs, they will be minus starting left tackle D.J. Humphries who is out with a hamstring injury. Joe Thuney will start in his place. The Chiefs also have starting right tackle Jawaan Taylor as questionable with a knee injury.

Kansas City also listed star defensive tackle Chris Jones as questionable with a calf injury. If Jones cannot go, the Chiefs defense takes a huge hit, especially with the Steelers wanting to take some shots downfield.

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Steelers vs Chiefs injury report: Latest updates, news for Week 17

Latest updates from the Pittsburgh Steelers injury report, including George Pickens and Joey Porter, Jr., ahead of a Week 17 game vs. the Chiefs.

The Pittsburgh Steelers face a tough challenge as they host the 14-1 Kansas City Chiefs on Christmas Day. This holiday matchup is shaping up to be a key test for the Steelers, who are playing their third game in 10 days and battling to solidify their playoff position.

Facing Patrick Mahomes and the high-powered Chiefs offense is never easy, but Pittsburgh’s defense, anchored by T.J. Watt and Cameron Heyward, will look to make a statement.

Offensively, the Steelers’ success will hinge on Russell Wilson, whose declined play has lost Pittsburgh its last two matchups.

Special teams could also play a big role, boasting capable kickers in Chris Boswell and Harrison Butker. While the Chiefs are 3-point favorites on the road, the Steelers are 5-1 at Acrisure Stadium.

Here’s a look at Monday’s injury and practice participation report for Chiefs week:

Steelers injury report

Player Injury Sunday Monday Tuesday Game status
QB Justin Fields abdominal DNP LP
WR George Pickens hamstring DNP DNP
WR Ben Skowronek hip DNP DNP
WR Mike Williams NIR DNP FP
CB Joey Porter Jr. knee DNP DNP
S DeShon Elliott hamstring LP FP
CB Donte Jackson back LP FP
LB Tyler Matakevich knee DNP FP
LB Elandon Roberts NIR DNP FP
OL Isaac Seumalo NIR DNP FP
LB T.J. Watt NIR DNP FP
DT Cameron Heyward NIR DNP FP
DT Larry Ogunjobi groin LP FP

* The Steelers did not practice on Sunday, only a walkthrough on Monday

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related – resting

Chiefs injury report

Player Injury Sunday Monday Tuesday Game status
DB Chamarri Conner concussion DNP TBA
T D.J. Humphries hamstring DNP
LB Jack Cochrane ankle DNP
DL Chris Jones calf DNP
T Jawaan Taylor knee LP
C Creed Humphrey shoulder FP
QB Patrick Mahomes ankle FP
S Justin Reid back FP
WR Nikkom Remigio knee FP
CB Josh Williams ankle/elbow FP
WR Xavier Worthy ankle FP

DNP: Did not practice

LP: Limited participation 

FP: Full participation

NIR: Not injury related – resting

George Pickens injury update

On Sunday’s non-practice report, George Pickens was an estimated limited participant but practiced fully on Tuesday. Pickens has missed the last three matchups after injuring his hamstring during practice ahead of the Week 14 dust-up with the Cleveland Browns.

Joey Porter Jr. injury update

Joey Porter Jr. suffered a knee injury during Pittsburgh’s Week 16 loss to the Baltimore Ravens. The injury occurred in the second half, forcing Porter to leave the game and not return. Porter will not likely recover in time for the quick turnaround on Christmas Day.

DeShon Elliott injury update

Pittsburgh’s secondary sorely missed DeShon Elliott’s presence in Weeks 15 and 16. Elliott is second only to Patrick Queen in tackles with 96, and the Steelers have missed a whopping 36 tackles since he injured his hamstring in the Week 14 victory over the Cleveland Browns.

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Is it time to hit the panic button on the Pittsburgh Steelers defense?

The Steelers’ defense has faltered in back-to-back losses, raising questions about their identity and playoff readiness.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have dropped to 10-5 following two consecutive losses to the Philadelphia Eagles and Baltimore Ravens in Weeks 15 and 16, respectively.

While both of these teams boasted high-powered offenses, the Steelers’ defense has recently showcased a loss of identity. The Lamar Jackson-led Ravens offense produced over 400 yards in the Steelers’ loss, and the Eagles accomplished the same the previous week.

Back in November, the Steelers held the Ravens to 16 total points compared to the 34-17 blowout loss in Week 16. What truly changed—and should fans begin to panic?

It is understandable that exhaustion has set in for the Black and Gold, as the team is currently in the midst of playing three games against Super Bowl contenders in just a 10-day span.

Injuries are also a likely cause, with the team missing CB Joey Porter Jr., CB Donte Jackson, DT Larry Ogunjobi, and SS DeShon Elliott. Their absences impact all facets of the defensive side of the ball.

With the Steelers’ playoff spot clinched, keeping the team healthy should be the primary concern rather than forcing players who are less than 100% to play injured.

Don’t worry, Steelers fans—this defense will reign supreme once again!

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