PITTSBURGH -- The Steelers’ secondary could look a lot different Sunday against the Patriots, and Joey Porter Jr. is the biggest question mark hanging over it.
Porter was back in the team’s stretch line during Friday’s practice, but his status appeared to move in the wrong direction after he left Thursday’s session early with trainers. A back injury designation was added back to the injury report, and the latest read is that he’s unlikely to play after taking a step back in his ramp-up.
The injury report also showed a change in how Porter was listed, going from “back” to “not injury related / conditioning.” That switch was downplayed by McCarthy, who said he never specifically addressed Porter as having a back injury.
“Frankly that’s just kind of where the person in charge of designating filed,” McCarthy said. “We have a plan for him. He hit the plan (Wednesday), hopefully he can do more (Thursday).”
The contract situation remains part of the backdrop, but McCarthy didn’t add any heat to it as Porter continues practicing without a new extension.
“Every situation for every player in my career has been different,” McCarthy said. “We’ll see how he goes, but I was very pleased with the work Joey was able to get done yesterday.”
While Porter’s outlook got murkier, Darnell Washington’s got clearer. The tight end returned to practice Friday after missing the first two days for a personal reason, and he now looks likely to suit up against New England.
Troy Fautanu also kept trending in the right direction. The left tackle practiced for a second straight day, which points toward him playing Sunday as well.
There was also a notable absence in the media viewing period: Michael Pittman Jr. was not spotted, a possible sign that he may sit out.
If Porter does end up on the field, he still may not be at full capacity. Asante Samuel Jr. has made the most of the opportunity in his absence, and the Steelers have clearly responded to that strong summer by giving Samuel the start over Porter against the Falcons.
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