Steelers get trade update on Joey Porter Jr.

The Pittsburgh Steelers have been bombarded by Joey Porter Jr. drama and trade rumors over the past several weeks, but an insider update has shed light on the league's potential interest in the young cornerback.

According to ESPN's Brooke Pryor and Jeremy Fowler, the Steelers haven't received or sent out "any serious inquiries" regarding a Porter trade, despite the significant number of rumors that have come out recently.

"The Steelers could trade Porter, though the team has neither made nor received any serious inquiries about the cornerback," Fowler and Pryor wrote. "One NFL executive believes the Steelers could get a second-round pick in exchange for Porter and a quality Day 3 draft selection."

Not allowing a touchdown in coverage when targeted since 2023, Porter has quickly emerged as one of the NFL's top cornerbacks. But trade partners aren't exactly throwing themselves at the Steelers to acquire Porter. A lack of interceptions, zero personal accolades like Pro Bowl and All-Pro honors, Pittsburgh's high asking price, and the fact that Porter is seeking a huge extension have likely played a role in deterring trade suitors.

This actually works out best for the Steelers, as Porter's impact goes beyond interceptions and Pro Bowl nominations. The lack of a trade market could force Porter to play out his rookie deal with Pittsburgh, which should lead to the team franchise tagging him after this season in order to restart contract negotiations.

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