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Mike McCarthy done discussing Joey Porter Jr.’s contract dispute

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. was sidelined during the squad's 20-13 regular-season opening triumph over the Atlanta Falcons, watching from the team area clad in athletic sweats.

Head coach Mike McCarthy attributed the defensive back's absence purely to physical limitations stemming from a lingering back ailment that restricted him throughout training camp. Nevertheless, reports and locker room peers suggested that an unresolved contractual impasse was a primary element in his inactivity, with linebacker Patrick Queen publicly expressing support for Porter securing a lucrative agreement.

While club officials reportedly felt the standout defender was capable of expanding his practice workload, Porter had previously chosen to avoid sessions to push for an extension prior to kickoff weekend. The stalemate has spurred speculation regarding a potential trade, even as McCarthy moves past addressing the contract tensions publicly following the opening victory.