The Dallas Cowboys are interested in Steelers CB Joey Porter Jr., here’s what he could cost and when a trade could happen
Jerry Jones has been teasing a big Dallas Cowboys trade since early training camp. This is one of the first names tangibly linked to the team.
Well, well, well! We finally have new tangible information on the Dallas Cowboys seeking a big-time trade to boost a defense that desperately needs help. And the best part is they don’t have to wait until November to pull this one off.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Cowboys made trade inquiries about the availability of Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. The standout fourth-year cornerback is unhappy with his contract situation in Pittsburgh. He was inactive for the first couple of weeks of the season and is expected to miss Week 3.
The Cowboys, meanwhile, are mightlily struggling on defense. Jerry Jones, who said since early training camp that he’d be willing to give up future picks to help out his 2026 roster cryptically said last Sunday: “There is nothing more dangerous than an old man with money.”
Does Joey Porter Jr. make sense for the Cowboys?
Absolutely. The Cowboys have several needs across their defensive lineup that it makes sense to target the best player available regardless of the position at this point. On the heels of Cobie Durant’s injury, depth at cornerback is a major concern. Outside of DaRon Bland Shavon Revel Jr., the second year corner figuring things out, the Cowboys don’t have a lot to work with at outside cornerback.
Some have argued Porter Jr. doesnt’ fit Parker’s scheme well, as he’s more of a physical man cover player than one made for a quarters-heavy system relying on communication. But here’s something to keep in mind: Parker led a secondary that was No. 1 in the NFL in man coverage rate with the Philadelphia Eagles.
Would he to get his hands on Porter Jr., perhaps his approach could shift to favor the new talent in his hands.
The best part of a Porter Jr. trade
One of the biggest concerns regarding a trade to help the defense has to be timing. It’s early in the season for teams to become sellers. And the Cowboys might not have enough time to sit around doing nothing until November. If they do, their defensive struggles might cost them their chance at the playoffs.
But Porter Jr. is seemingly available now because of his contract dispute with the Steelers. If the Cowboys can get help sooner rather than later, it might make enough of a difference to save the season.
What would a trade cost?
Our own A to Z Sports Pittsburgh’s Rob Gregson recently wrote: “To be totally honest, barring Joey Porter Jr. saying he will never play for the Steelers again, I don’t know if the Steelers would consider anything less than a first.”
Schefter is seemingly on the same page as Gregson: “The Steelers would be willing to listen to trade offers for Porter, according to sources, but they would want a strong compensation package if they were to deal the fourth-year star.”
But with Porter’s unhappiness right now, I wouldn’t be surprised if the Cowboys can get away with a trade featuring a second-round pick and some change.
One thing is clear. The Cowboys and Steelers have a strong working relationship. Over the last couple of years, both parties have engaged in trade. Dallas acquired WR George Pickens in 2025 and OT Broderick Jones earlier this year.
