Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. is unlikely to play Sunday against the Atlanta Falcons due to a back injury, sources told NFL Network and ESPN. The situation remains tied to an ongoing contract dispute, with no big-money extension agreed upon despite negotiations continuing until the day before the season. The Steelers do not negotiate during the season, and the sides remain far apart on a deal.

Porter, who previously requested a trade, is open to playing elsewhere, and an early-season trade is possible. Pittsburgh has been willing to listen to offers but has seen no notable interest at its asking price of a premium draft pick, possibly a first-rounder. No serious trade talks have developed yet, though they could pick up as injuries mount across the NFL.

Porter recently said he would need to consult team officials and agents about his availability. Steelers coach Mike McCarthy said Porter is 'working through the ramp-up stage' and did not practice all summer, with conditioning and readiness being a focus. If Porter does not play, Asante Samuel Jr. would likely take on an elevated role, having joined the Steelers midway through last season after spinal fusion surgery.

Doneiko Slaughter was also elevated to the game-day roster from the practice squad. Porter has watched as the Steelers extended Nick Herbig, Keeanu Benton, and Darnell Washington this offseason, while top cornerbacks like Trent McDuffie, Denzel Ward, Devon Witherspoon, and Christian Gonzalez signed deals over $30 million per year.