The Dallas Cowboys announced a significant midseason trade, acquiring cornerback Joey Porter Jr. from the Pittsburgh Steelers. The trade details include the Cowboys sending a 2027 sixth-round pick and a 2028 second-round pick to the Steelers. Tom Pelissero from The Ringer initially reported this move.

Joey Porter Jr., drafted by the Steelers as the 32nd pick in 2023, has shown notable performance over three seasons. He has accumulated 165 tackles, 31 pass breakups, and three interceptions in 47 games. His coverage statistics from last season, recorded by Pro Football Reference, include a 48.5% completion rate allowed and a 57.2 quarterback rating. Additionally, he recorded his first sack in a Week 9 game against the Indianapolis Colts.

This season, Porter Jr. has not played due to a contract dispute, compounded by a back injury. He was already ruled out for the Steelers’ upcoming game against the Cleveland Browns. However, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, there is potential for his debut with the Cowboys this Sunday when they face the Houston Texans.

Porter joins a Dallas defense struggling in the secondary. The Cowboys have permitted a 72.6% completion rate, the highest in the NFC through three weeks. They have allowed 27.3 points per game, resulting in a 1-2 start, and are one of four teams yet to record an interception.

The need for enhancing their secondary became evident with cornerback Cobie Durant sidelined by a hamstring injury. Additionally, Shavon Revel Jr. suffered a knee injury last Sunday, following a previous ACL tear during his rookie season.

Following the trade announcement, Porter expressed his excitement by updating his Instagram story with the caption, “Here I come … Dallas.”