Pittsburgh — The Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. was named one of the finest rookies in the NFL at his position this week by the Pro Football Writers of America.
Porter Jr. was the only Steeler nominated to the PFWA’s annual All-Rookie team this week, with Seattle Seahawks standout Devon Witherspoon taking the other cornerback place.
Porter Jr. finished his first season with 42 tackles, 32 of which were solo, 10 passes defended, an interception (which came at a critical moment on the goal line late in the Steelers’ home win over the Baltimore Ravens), and a tackle for loss. He allowed a 47.5% completion rate and only one touchdown all season. Porter Jr.’s tackling improved over the season, and he finished with only three missed tackles.
His role rose throughout the season, and Porter Jr. finally took on the duty of protecting the opposing team’s best wide receiver. When he returns in 2024, he is expected to resume his role as the Steelers’ lockdown cornerback.
RELATED: Pittsburgh Steelers Meet With Notable Offensive Coordinator Candidate.
The Pittsburgh Steelers are looking for a new offensive coordinator. This follows the firing of Matt Canada in the middle of the 2023 NFL season. Now, there appears to be a well-known candidate who could replace Canada.
Pittsburgh Steelers are reportedly meeting with Kliff Kingsbury.
According to an NBC source, the Pittsburgh Steelers will likely meet with Kliff Kingsbury. Pittsburgh is anticipated to talk to him about their open offensive coordinator post. Kingsbury is presently the quarterback coach for the USC Trojans.
However, he has extensive NFL experience. Kingsbury was the Arizona Cardinals’ head coach for four seasons. When he was sacked by the Cardinals, Kingsbury initially fled to Thailand, and speculations circulated that he could retire from coaching football. After a few months, he returned to the United States and joined the USC coaching staff.
Other Kliff Kingsbury Rumors
This isn’t the first time Kingsbury’s name has been up for an offensive coordinator position this summer. There were indications last week that he was interviewing for a vacant position with the Chicago Bears. That sparked speculation about whether USC quarterback Caleb Williams was a lock for the #1 overall selection pick.
However, it was eventually reported that the Bears were going to hire former Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Shane Waldron. As a result, Kingsbury can now pursue other options. Given the Steelers’ offensive output this season, Kingsbury’s hiring would undoubtedly be viewed as a positive development.
