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Grading the trade: Steelers finally pull the trigger on saying goodbye to Joey Porter Jr. after shipping him to the Cowboys

The Pittsburgh Steelers finally pulled the trigger on moving their best cornerback, but the return leaves a lot to be desired — here is why this deal grades out as painfully average.

Yardbarker

Published: Thursday, 1 October 2026 at 4:26 AM

Key Things to Know

The Pittsburgh Steelers traded cornerback Joey Porter Jr. to the Dallas Cowboys.
Pittsburgh received a permanent transfer of draft capital consisting of a 2028 second-rounder and a 2027 sixth-rounder.
A to Z Sports argues the trade return was average given Porter's status as a top cornerback.

The Story in 60 Seconds

The Pittsburgh Steelers have traded cornerback Joey Porter Jr. to the Dallas Cowboys in exchange for a 2028 second-round draft pick and a 2027 sixth-round pick. The move ends weeks of tension following a contract standoff, with Pittsburgh reportedly unwilling to offer $30 million per year after Porter rejected an offer near $27 million annually.

A to Z Sports grades the trade as average, arguing Pittsburgh received a disappointing return of distant draft capital for a top defensive talent. Porter is also reportedly willing to play for Dallas without an immediate extension.

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