Porter’s contract talks stall as back injury hampers Steelers’ negotiations

A source familiar with cornerback Joey Porter’s contract situation told ESPN reporter Brooke Pryor that his future with the Pittsburgh Steelers is unclear. The player, who is in the fourth year of his rookie deal, has been seeking an extension during the offseason but missed the first week of the season with a back injury. Porter completed a full practice on Wednesday but aggravated the injury on Thursday, casting doubt on his availability for Week 2.

According to the source, negotiations have stalled because the Steelers have not offered guaranteed money, a departure from their usual practice except for a recent exception made for teammate T.J. Watt. Porter reportedly hoped for a similar guarantee, but none has been presented so far. The team’s relationship with Porter is described as “fractured beyond repair,” and his status will be reassessed after Friday’s practice.

The unresolved contract dispute and the player’s health issue leave his participation in upcoming games uncertain.