Dallas – In a move aimed at bolstering the Cowboys’ secondary, owner Jerry Jones approved a trade with the Pittsburgh Steelers that sends a 2027 sixth‑round draft pick and a 2028 second‑round pick to Pittsburgh in exchange for cornerback Joey Porter Jr.
Porter’s recent performance and health
Porter, who posted an interception, 52 tackles and a sack last season, entered the 2026 campaign dealing with a back issue and a contentious contract negotiation with the Steelers. He missed the first three games for Pittsburgh and was ruled out for the Thursday night matchup against the Cleveland Browns before the trade was finalized.
Jones’ willingness to spend draft capital
Jones has been vocal about his readiness to part with draft capital to reshape the roster. Earlier in the offseason, the Cowboys passed on a trade for Las Vegas Raiders pass rusher Maxx Crosby, but the organization later demonstrated its commitment to defensive upgrades by acquiring Porter.
“We’re in play on the defensive side of the ball,” Jones told 105.3 The Fan in September, indicating the team’s openness to further moves. The Porter trade, announced early Thursday, reflects that intent.
Cowboys’ defensive standing
Dallas currently allows an average of 387 yards per game, ranking third‑worst in the league, trailing only the Detroit Lions and Indianapolis Colts. The team heads into Week 4 with a modest +6 point differential but already carries losses to the New York Giants and Baltimore Ravens.
Recent roster moves underscore the Cowboys’ aggressive approach. In the 2025 offseason, the team dealt star linebacker Micah Parsons to the Green Bay Packers for defensive tackle Kenny Clark and several draft picks. Later, the Cowboys used those picks to acquire defensive tackle Quinnen Williams from the New York Jets.
Porter’s reaction
Porter confirmed the trade on his Instagram Stories with the message, “Here I come … Dallas,” signaling his enthusiasm for joining the franchise.
Local impact
The trade is significant for Dallas fans who have watched the Cowboys struggle defensively this season. At 83, Jones remains committed to delivering another Super Bowl championship, and adding a proven cornerback is a clear step toward that goal.
While the trade costs future draft assets, the immediate upgrade at cornerback is expected to help the Cowboys’ secondary tighten up, potentially improving the team’s yardage allowance and overall competitiveness as the season progresses.
Original reporting: Fox News (HLL/CB) — read the source article.
