ESPN’s Adam Schefter reports Joey Porter Jr. (back) is “considering a second opinion.”

20 September 2026

Porter Jr. missed training camp and the first two weeks of the regular season with the back issue. His absence was initially believed to be purely related to his contract situation. He lobbied for a new deal all summer and never seemed to make much progress. But the fact that he is seeking additional medical opinions indicates the back issue is real. The Steelers, on the other hand, aren’t buying it. According to Schefter, they are planning for him to potentially play in Week 3. This situation is getting uglier by the week. It’s possible a trade is best for everyone involved. Until some progress is made, the Steelers will continue to be without their top corner.