Joey Porter Jr. Trade Pays Off for Cowboys and Steelers

Porter has allowed only two completions in three games with the Cowboys since his September 30 move from Pittsburgh. Dallas gave up a 2027 sixth-round pick and a 2028 second-rounder for the 26-year-old cornerback, after starting the season 1-2.

Among players targeted at least 10 times, Porter leads the NFL in completion rate allowed, at 18.2%, passing yards allowed, at 10, and yards per attempt allowed, at 0.9. The Houston Texans did not target him in their game against Dallas. In the Cowboys’ loss to Philadelphia, his only two completions allowed were both five-yard gains.

Dallas receiver CeeDee Lamb praised the ability to put Porter on an opponent’s top receiver. Defensive coordinator Christian Parker said Porter must stay focused even when teams avoid throwing his way. Porter said he holds himself to a high standard and remains frustrated by the two catches he gave up.

Pittsburgh, meanwhile, is 3-1 since trading Porter and has won three consecutive games. Samuel, who took over as a starter, has seven passes defended and has allowed a 45.5% completion rate. Former NFL coach Jon Gruden pointed to Samuel’s play as a reason Pittsburgh could trade Porter, praising the cornerback’s confidence and ball skills. The Steelers are allowing 212.7 passing yards and 19.7 points per game.