Joey Porter status remains uncertain ahead of Steelers season opener

Pittsburgh Steelers head coach McCarthy expressed optimism that cornerback Joey Porter will be available for the team's season opener against the Atlanta Falcons this Sunday. Porter returned to practice last Tuesday after spending training camp on the active/physically unable to perform list. The team maintains a policy of not negotiating contract extensions once the regular season begins, putting a deadline on potential long-term agreements. Porter, who is entering the final year of his rookie contract, has been noncommittal about his participation in Week 1 without a new deal. McCarthy categorized the cornerback as being in a ramp-up phase of his recovery. The team continues to navigate the situation as the game approaches.

• 8:22 PMYahoo Sports — Mike McCarthy hopeful that Joey Porter will play Week 1