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Browns’ Denzel Ward extension complicates Steelers’ talks with Joey Porter Jr

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Jul 28, 2026, 10:28 PM

Last updated Jul 28, 2026

Browns’ Denzel Ward extension complicates Steelers’ talks with Joey Porter Jr

Summary

The Cleveland Browns finalized a two-year, $62.2 million contract extension with cornerback Denzel Ward, making him the highest-paid defensive back in NFL history. The agreement intensifies negotiations between the Pittsburgh Steelers and Joey Porter Jr., who is entering the final year of his rookie contract. With Ward's deal raising the market value for cornerbacks, Porter and others like Christian Gonzalez and Devon Witherspoon face a more challenging negotiation process. Compounding the situation, Porter was placed on the physically unable to perform list due to a back injury ahead of the Steelers' training camp, set to begin on July 29.

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By the Numbers

•Browns sign Denzel Ward to a two-year, $62.2 million extension
•Ward's deal makes him the highest-paid DB in NFL history
•Steelers negotiating with Joey Porter Jr. for a contract extension
•Porter placed on PUP list due to a back injury
•Training camp begins for Steelers on July 29

Latest Updates

10:28 PMYahoo Sports — Browns complicate Steelers’ contract negotiations with Joey Porter Jr
10:27 PMYahoo Sports — Steelers' Joey Porter Jr. contract talks get more difficult after Browns update

What they're saying

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The Pittsburgh Steelers need to sign Joey Porter Jr. to a new deal, but Cleveland Browns CB Denzel Ward just made that more difficult.
— Yahoo Sports