The Pittsburgh Steelers received a dose of momentum on the health front as key contributors work their way back onto the field. Beat reporter Nick Farabaugh provided important updates via X regarding cornerback Joey Porter Jr. and offensive tackle Troy Fautanu following head coach Mike McCarthy’s recent press availability.
"Injury updates per Mike McCarthy: Joey Porter Jr. continues his work back and is ‘scheduled to do more today than he did yesterday.’ Troy Fautanu will return to practice today from his ankle injury. McCarthy says he’ll be limited," shared Farabaugh on X.
Injury updates per Mike McCarthy: - Joey Porter Jr. continues his work back and is ‘scheduled to do more today than he did yesterday.’ - Troy Fautanu will return to practice
today from his ankle injury. McCarthy says he’ll be limited.
— Nick Farabaugh (@FarabaughFB) September 17, 2026
While the official report attributes Porter’s absence to a back injury, the lingering ailment has been widely viewed around the league as a "hold-in" cover for an ongoing contract dispute. Entering the final year of his rookie deal, Porter has sought a top-of-the-market extension.
With negotiations stalled at an impasse, his prolonged absence from team drills and his subsequent Week 1 inactive status have been largely interpreted as leverage in his contract standoff rather than a purely physical setback. Nevertheless, his transition from injury recovery to a full-go ramp-up phase signals that Pittsburgh’s coaching staff is pushing for his return to the secondary.
Meanwhile, Fautanu’s return to practice, even in a limited capacity, provides immediate relief for the offensive line. Fautanu injured his ankle late in the Week 1 win over the Atlanta Falcons.
Workouts involving ankle injuries require cautious management, so starting with limited participation allows the medical staff to monitor his mobility and anchor before clearing him for full contact. Fautanu’s presence on the practice field, even if limited, offers optimism about his availability in upcoming matchups.
Managing player health and the business side that often complicates it is critical throughout an NFL season. McCarthy’s deliberate approach balances long-term player safety with immediate tactical needs.
While both players remain on a controlled workload, their positive practice trajectories suggest Pittsburgh’s roster depth is moving in the right direction at a crucial juncture.
This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Mike McCarthy share key injury updates on Porter Jr. and Fautanu
