Patrick Peterson Calls Joey Porter Jr. a Steelers Cornerstone With Contract Looming
Patrick Peterson signed with the Pittsburgh Steelers during the 2023 free agency period with the expectation that the team could use him similarly to how it plans to use Jalen Ramsey now. However, Peterson was sometimes a misfit in the defense when defensive coordinator Teryl Austin struggled to find the best way to deploy him. Peterson eventually became a serviceable free safety before the Steelers released him. Along the way, though, he became a valuable mentor to rookie cornerback Joey Porter Jr. Since then, Porter has developed into what Peterson believes can become a cornerstone player, not just for the secondary, but for the entire defense. Peterson believes Porter is becoming the foundation of the Steelers' defense.
Peterson spoke with D.J. Siddiqi and shared his thoughts on Porter's rise in Pittsburgh. He also discussed Porter's contract negotiations.
"I believe Joey is definitely well-deserving of a contract extension. He's a stud. He's a guy who absolutely erases teams' No. 1 receivers. I had the opportunity to be with him his rookie year, and it was quite impressive to see what he was able to do throughout that year. The responsibilities that they put on him throughout the year reminded me so much of my rookie season, and he took it like a champ." He said.
Porter the cornerstone of the Steelers defense
Porter has provided the stability the Steelers have lacked in the secondary since Joe Haden, and perhaps even since Ike Taylor before him. Peterson believes Porter is continuing to improve and is becoming a cornerstone of the Steelers' defense.
"To see him continuing to grow, and to continue to be that cornerstone, not only for the Pittsburgh Steelers, but across the league. I know you don't get a lot of pub because you don't have a lot of interceptions, but I'll tell you one thing: teams' receivers don't score on him, and a lot of guys don't catch the ball on him. As a defensive back, that's the main objective." Peterson said.
Some critics may point to Porter's lack of interceptions compared to other top cornerbacks. However, Peterson emphasizes what he believes matters most: Porter is a true shutdown corner. Receivers rarely score against him, and he makes it extremely difficult for them to even make catches.
What stands out most about Peterson's evaluation is that he believes Porter is not only becoming a cornerstone player in Pittsburgh but also one across the NFL.
Porter in a league of his own
Peterson was asked whether Porter reminds him of any other players because of his unique approach. His answer was simple.
"No, he's in a world of his own, because he doesn't look fast on film, but he has great speed, and he uses his length to his advantage." He said.
Porter's length and playing style make him an excellent press corner. He can lock down receivers at the line of scrimmage and make every matchup a challenge for 60 minutes. That physical style has also led to some penalties. Porter's 2024 season was particularly difficult in that regard, as holding penalties became an issue. However, he reduced those penalties significantly in 2025. If anything, he played at an All-Pro level last season.
Porter now has another respected voice praising his development. He has emerged into the player the Steelers envisioned when they selected him 32nd overall in the 2023 NFL Draft. Now, it is up to general manager Omar Khan to ensure Porter remains in the Steel City for years to come.
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This story was originally published July 8, 2026 at 8:00 AM.