Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. was listed with a back problem on Thursday, just one day after the franchise modified his designation to non-injury and conditioning.
The defensive back walked off the practice field alongside a medical trainer while reporters were observing the session. His availability remains uncertain leading up to the Week 2 matchup against the New England Patriots after he sat out the regular-season opener, a 20-13 victory over the Atlanta Falcons.
The health concerns unfold against an ongoing contract dispute, with Porter staging a hold-in after receiving a proposal averaging $25 million per season. Linebacker Patrick Queen and former Steelers standout James Harrison have voiced their backing for the cornerback amid potential fines and friction with the front office.
Meanwhile, head coach Mike McCarthy and defensive coordinator Patrick Graham are eager for Porter to make his 2026 campaign debut to strengthen the secondary.
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