Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. remains uncertain about playing without a contract extension

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. said Tuesday he cannot say whether he will play without a contract extension, noting he must discuss the matter with team officials and his agents. He added that his back injury, aggravated during early training-camp workouts, has kept him sidelined and he is focusing on a day-by-day recovery.

Porter, entering the final year of his rookie contract, practiced for the first time since being activated off the physically unable to perform list. Coach Mike McCarthy said the player would "ramp up" his participation but did not project his readiness for the season opener against the Atlanta Falcons.

When asked if he would play if healthy, Porter initially answered affirmatively before qualifying his response with "maybe." He said negotiations have been difficult and that the decision ultimately rests with the organization. "I could hope and think all day, but it's up to those guys upstairs," he said.

Porter said his father, former Steelers linebacker Joey Porter Sr., has been advising him throughout the process. Veteran defensive end Cameron Heyward, who experienced a tough negotiation last year, offered Porter advice, emphasizing that football is a business and expressing confidence that teammates want him on the field.

The Steelers have already extended contracts for three of Porter’s draft-class teammates—linebacker Nick Herbig, tight end Darnell Washington and defensive lineman Keeanu Benton—prompting Porter to express happiness for their deals.