This Steelers Cornerback is Poised for a Breakout Year

NFLFootball
Written By Drew Gassman

The Pittsburgh Steelers are entering the 2025 NFL season with numerous positive factors to be hopeful about. One of their bright spots is third-year cornerback Joey Porter Jr., who was drafted in 2023 after four years at Penn State. The former Nittany Lion is 24 years old, stands at six-foot-two, and weighs 193 pounds. As a big, physical defensive back, he excels in press and man coverage, utilizing his strength and size to win matchups. Porter Jr. has quick, smart hands that can make up for late footwork. The young cornerback could be gearing up for a breakout season. 

Joey Porter Jr. did not fill out the stats sheet so much as a playmaker last season; however, he showcased his ability to play as a lockdown cornerback. Through roughly 500 coverage snaps, Porter Jr. was targeted 53 times, only allowing one touchdown, and a 65.9 passer rating from quarterbacks. In this immaculate Steelers defensive scheme, he keeps improving over time and has the potential to be one of the league’s top DBs with the right situation. As the first pick of the second round in the 2023 draft, Porter Jr. entered the league with already high expectations, and is hoping to help the sure-fire Steelers defense remain lethal and lockdown.

With the lingering holdout by T.J. Watt, Pittsburgh is aiming most of its focus at signing the All-Pro edge rusher. However, with the signing of Aaron Rodgers and other offseason additions, Joey Porter Jr. and the Steelers are looking to make a big run this year. Also, with the free agent signing of veteran defensive back Darius Slay, having him anchor the opposite side of the field will take a burden off Porter Jr., allowing him to play in sync with the team in a more balanced manner. He’ll be able to learn how to lean on his strengths, and now he has Slay, who could act as a great mentor for the young star, helping him improve on his weaknesses. Porter Jr. has shown signs of greatness and is hoping to improve his game and contribute even more this upcoming season.

Drew Gassman

Hi, my name is Drew Gassman, and sports and writing are my passions. They have helped get me through life, and they will continue to do so. As a Sports Media major at Indiana University, I hope to further develop my writing and journalism skills with this opportunity.

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