Pittsburgh Joey Porter Jr., the cornerback for the Pittsburgh Steelers, has been selected as one of the finalists for the 2023 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year Award. Entering his first NFL offseason as the team’s top cornerback, the second-round choice of the Steelers made his first season as a professional unforgettable.
With one interception, 42 tackles, 10 passes defensed, and a tackle for loss, Porter wrapped off his debut campaign. With just thirty completions and one touchdown reception, he gave up a 47.6 completion percentage.
In the middle of the season, he assumed command of the squad as its primary cornerback and started to shadow top receivers for opponents, including DeAndre Hopkins, Stefon Diggs, Ja’Marr Chase, and others.
Coach Mike Tomlin expressed excitement about the player’s career trajectory. “His mentality is perhaps what makes him where he is most outstanding. He’s looking for a battle. He desires the demanding coverage. That’s one way he’s very competitive. And it’s a fantastic base from which to grow.
Porter is competing for the prize against Devon Witherspoon, Jalen Carter, Will Anderson, and Koby Turner.