Overview
- Porter remains unsigned and has not played this season despite increased practice work, and he told reporters Thursday that he expects to play this year once he is healthy.
- The Steelers removed his back-injury designation this week and reported he has been cleared to play while continuing limited then expanded practice reps, and coach Mike McCarthy showed visible frustration when questioned about the situation.
- Analysts have floated blockbuster trade ideas that would fetch first-round draft capital, but CBS reporting and team sources say Pittsburgh is not actively shopping Porter and has not received formal offers.
- Local insiders warn the Steelers could withhold pay or cite a breach of contract if Porter does not play after being cleared, and former players note such actions could prompt NFLPA intervention because of earlier injury designations.
- Porter is in the final year of his rookie deal and rejected an offer reported near $27 million a year as the top-corner market rose; the Steelers retain options including trading him or using the franchise tag if no extension is reached.