On Wednesday, the Pittsburgh Steelers ruled Joey Porter Jr. out for “Thursday Night Football” against the Cleveland Browns. The reasons: non-injury related/conditioning and a back injury. Porter participated in practice on a limited basis that day.
Shortly after, the Steelers agreed to trade Porter to the Dallas Cowboys. The deal involved a 2028 second-round pick and a conditional sixth-round pick in 2027.
A league source indicated to Newsweek that Porter is expected to suit up for the Cowboys’ game against the Houston Texans on Sunday. It is unclear if he will start or how many snaps he will take in Week 5 as he learns defensive coordinator Christian Parker’s playbook.
The Cowboys aim to use Porter in critical situations during what the league sees as a must-win game. Porter’s presence is sought to bolster a defense affected by secondary injuries. The trade was finalized days before facing the 0-3 Texans led by quarterback C.J. Stroud, with wide receiver Nico Collins potentially returning from a hamstring injury.
Regarding Porter’s back issue, sources mentioned to Newsweek that the injury claims are dubious. Porter missed significant time during training camp and the early part of the season due to a contract dispute labeled as a back injury.
The Texans were anticipated to contend for the playoffs with enhanced defense and offseason upgrades to their offense. Hull’s team, at 0-4, would see its postseason hopes dim. Dallas signing Porter emanates urgency, avoiding a 1-3 start.
The pivotal trade aims to boost a defense weakened in a loss to the Baltimore Ravens in Week 3. The urgency for immediate on-field impact is clear.
In the NFC East, Dallas eyes keeping pace with the Eagles. The Eagles just faced a 27-7 defeat against the Chicago Bears and are set to play the Los Angeles Rams, who are 1-2.
Porter expressed an eagerness to play on Sunday, sharing with reporters on Thursday his readiness.
“I’m feeling good,” Porter commented on the Cowboys’ website. “I’ll talk to the guys. I mean, I just got here today, so we’re just trying to take things day by day, and if everything looks good, then I should be out there.”
Being in the final year of his rookie contract, Porter has incentives to perform well this season. As he heads towards free agency in the 2027 offseason, he aims to strengthen his position.
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