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Former NFL GM says Steelers have a Joey Porter Jr. problem
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- Former NFL GM says Steelers have a Joey Porter Jr. problem
Former NFL GM says Steelers have a Joey Porter Jr. problem
As the Pittsburgh Steelers and Joey Porter Jr. continue to move toward a potential extension , one former NFL general manager has weighed in on the lingering contract talks. His comments expose a harsh reality for Porter heading into the final year of his rookie deal.
Former Buffalo Bills GM Doug Whaley isn't sold on Porter commanding top cornerback money due to concerns over his lack of interceptions throughout his collegiate and NFL career.
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"The biggest issue I would have, and I'm sure the Steelers would have, is the lack of interceptions," Whaley said via 93.7 The Fan. "To me, to be considered in the top five, you have to get your hands on the ball. And he's got a history from, since he was at Penn State, of not creating turnovers. And that's probably where the big difference is where he wants to be. 'Hey, if you look at my [Pro Football Focus] stats, I haven't allowed a touchdown. I haven't done this and this,' and he's got great stats. But to me, to elevate yourself to be someone where you're gonna be on the cover of Madden, you have to get at least five-plus interceptions. And he doesn't do it and hasn't done it, and I don't think he's the type of player to do it."
Whaley admitted that Porter is a lockdown cornerback, but the lack of interceptions is what's keeping him from the $30-plus million range.
Many within the NFL have weighed in on Porter's contract talks with the Steelers, with some believing he could reset the cornerback market while others suggest he'd sign for around $28 million. If Whaley had his way, Porter would likely have no choice but to choose the latter or play elsewhere.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Former NFL GM says Steelers have a Joey Porter Jr. problem
