Joey Porter Jr. injury update: Significant news emerges on Steelers CB ahead of Week 2 vs. Seahawks

Pittsburgh Steelers (1-0) cornerback Joey Porter Jr. (hamstring) did not participate in practice for the second straight day on Thursday. Porter has one more chance to return to practice on Friday but for now, it would appear he’s in jeopardy of missing Sunday’s Week 2 home contest against the Seattle Seahawks (0-1).

Porter, 25, suffered the hamstring injury in the 34-32 Week 1 over the New York Jets (0-1). Head coach Mike Tomlin said he was “optimistic” about Porter’s availability against Seattle.

“Joey Porter wasn’t able to finish the game with a hamstring,” Tomlin said. “Optimistic about his availability, but I’ll let the quality of his work and the amount of his work during the week be our guide there.”

Porter played in 69% of the defensive snaps against the Jets before the injury forced him to come off the field. He was credited with one tackle. Pro Football Focus gave him an overall grade of 32.4, tied for 94th out of 96 cornerbacks.

Joey Porter Jr. hurt, Steelers secondary banged up

The Steelers are already banged up elsewhere in their secondary. Safety DeShon Elliott has a knee injury and Tomlin has already ruled him out for the Seahawks game. Pittsburgh signed veteran safety Jabrill Peppers on Tuesday.

The good news for the Steelers is that linebacker Nick Herbig was a full participant in Thursday’s practice. Herbig missed the Jets game with a hamstring injury. He is hoping to be back on the field Sunday at Acrisure Stadium. Herbig wanted to return sooner but was focused on not rushing back into action.

“I think that’s part of being a professional,” Herbig said. “I’m on year three now, kind of know my body a little more. It’s trusting that they have my best interests and that they’re doing what’s not just best for me, but best for the team.”