Joey Porter Jr. Named Rookie of Year Finalist

Pittsburgh Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. has been named a finalist for the 2023 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year Award. The Steelers' second-round pick turned his first pro season into a memorable one, placing himself as the team's top cornerback as he enters his first offseason in the NFL. 

Porter finished his rookie season with one interception, 42 tackles, 10 passes defensed, and a tackle for loss. He allowed a 47.6 completion percentage, giving up just 30 completions and one touchdown catch. 

He took over as the team's top cornerback mid-season and began shadowing opponent's top receivers, such as DeAndre Hopkins, Stefon Diggs, Ja'Marr Chase and others. 

"I'm really excited about the trajectory of his career," said Coach Mike Tomlin. "Probably the most impressive component of where he is, is his mindset. He wants the fight. He wants the tough coverage. He's extremely competitive in that way. And that's a great place to build from.

Porter is up against Will Anderson, Jalen Carter, Koby Turner and Devon Witherspoon for the award.