Steelers trade cornerback Joey Porter Jr. to Cowboys amid mixed league views

Pittsburgh traded cornerback Joey Porter Jr. to the Dallas Cowboys for a 2027 sixth-round selection and a 2028 second-round pick. While Steelers supporters argue the deal undervalues the player, several league executives consider the price reasonable, noting that future picks are typically discounted compared to current ones.

"They were bidding against themselves for Porter," said an executive from a team that was reportedly interested in the cornerback.

One general manager likened the 2028 second-rounder to a 2027 third-round pick, suggesting the value is modest but acceptable. Academic research cited in the column indicates that NFL teams have long used a heuristic of gaining a higher round by waiting a year, a practice that still influences trade assessments.

Dallas, which has a recent history of paying premium prices for talent, may use the franchise or transition tag on Porter in March if they choose not to extend a long-term contract. Should Porter sign elsewhere, the Cowboys could receive a compensatory pick in 2028.

The trade also highlights ongoing negotiations involving the Athletes First agency, which represents Porter and several other Cowboys players. The move comes as the Steelers, currently 2-2, look to convert draft capital into immediate impact, while the Cowboys aim to address defensive needs ahead of their upcoming game against the Houston Texans.

Other league activity noted in the column includes the Giants acquiring quarterback J.J. McCarthy for a fifth-round pick, ongoing discussions about pass-interference reviewability, and injury updates for players such as Jayden Daniels and Myles Garrett.