The Pittsburgh Steelers announced Joey Porter Jr. as out for “Thursday Night Football” against the Cleveland Browns. His absence is due to non-injury related conditioning and a back injury. Porter participated only partially in Wednesday’s practice.
Shortly after this announcement, the Steelers traded Porter to the Dallas Cowboys. In return, the Cowboys provided a 2028 second-round pick and a 2027 conditional sixth-round pick. A league source informed Newsweek that Porter is expected to play for the Cowboys against the Houston Texans on Sunday. Details regarding Porter’s starting status or the number of snaps he will play remain uncertain, as he learns the playbook of defensive coordinator Christian Parker.
The Cowboys are likely to utilize Porter during vital plays in what is considered a crucial game. His presence is expected to support a defense troubled by recent injuries. The timing of the trade was strategic, aiming for an advantage against a struggling Texans team with a 0-3 record, managed by quarterback C.J. Stroud. Receiver Nico Collins might return to play against the Cowboys following a hamstring injury.
Regarding Porter’s back injury, sources have expressed skepticism about its severity. He missed much of training camp and initial games over a contract dispute tagged with a back injury.
The Texans, predicted by many preseason analysts to compete for playoffs, face pressing urgency for a win after an 0-3 season start. Their in-state rivalry with the Cowboys adds pressure for a victory. A potential 0-4 record could severely impact playoff opportunities.
Meanwhile, the Cowboys risk falling to 1-3 should they lose. They conducted this trade to address immediate needs in their secondary, exposed during their Week 3 defeat against the Baltimore Ravens.
The Cowboys face stiff competition in the NFC East from teams like the Philadelphia Eagles, who recently suffered a loss to the Chicago Bears. The Eagles are set to play the Los Angeles Rams next. The addition of Porter provides hope for the Cowboys to match or surpass the Eagles weekend’s performance.
Porter expressed optimism about Sunday’s game, stating his intent to participate after discussions with the team. Following his arrival, he mentioned the focus is on taking one day at a time and playing if deemed ready.
Porter is in the last year of his rookie contract and aims to deliver strong performances before entering free agency in the 2027 offseason. Presently, the Cowboys aren’t rushing to extend Porter’s contract.