Steelers make decision on Joey Porter before Falcons game

The Pittsburgh Steelers begin their 2026 NFL season Sunday when they host the Atlanta Falcons at Acrisure Stadium.

Pittsburgh enters the matchup with questions in its secondary after cornerback Joey Porter Jr. appeared on the final injury report. Porter was limited in practice during the week because of a back injury and was listed as questionable for the opener.

The Steelers are otherwise healthy heading into the game, while Atlanta has major changes at quarterback. Falcons starter Tua Tagovailoa has been ruled out with an oblique injury, and Michael Penix Jr. is also unavailable as he continues recovering from a knee injury, and Cooper Rush is expected to start for Atlanta.

Joey Porter Jr. inactive for Steelers vs Falcons

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Mandatory Credit: Barry Reeger-Imagn Images

Porter is not going to play against Atlanta because of his back injury.

The Steelers listed him as questionable on Friday after he was limited throughout the week. He is the only Pittsburgh player on the final Week 1 injury report.

Adam Schefter Reported that Porter is not going to be available for Sunday's game.

The Steelers will need to make changes at outside cornerback. Asante Samuel Jr. could start opposite Jamel Dean in Pittsburgh's secondary.

Joey Porter Jr. contract situation remains unresolved

Porter's expected absence comes as he remains in contract discussions with the Steelers.

The cornerback and Pittsburgh have not agreed to a new deal, despite negotiations continuing through the offseason. Porter said earlier this month that he could not guarantee he would play in Week 1 without an agreement.

Schefter also reported that a possible trade remains in play. No trade has been announced, and Porter remains on the Steelers' active roster.