Just when it seemed like Joey Porter Jr. was finally set to return to the Pittsburgh Steelers, everything changed in a matter of days. That sad fact isn't lost on Aaron Rodgers, who shared his honest take on the unfortunate trade situation that played out less than 24 hours before the Steelers faced the Cleveland Browns on Thursday Night Football.
Speaking with reporters following the Steelers' Week 4 loss to the Browns, Rodgers revealed what some could argue is the most heartbreaking aspect of this entire trade situation: he thought Porter was actually going to play for the Steelers this week.
"You know, I thought Joey might play this week based on his practice stuff," Rodgers said. "But, you know, we wish Joey well."
That's honestly why the Porter
trade felt so surreal. Porter denied previously requesting a trade. He was listed as a full participant in practice on Week 4's injury report on Tuesday and Wednesday, albeit for practice walkthroughs. It felt as though Porter would eventually have to suit up for Pittsburgh, which is why Rodgers and many other fans believed Week 4 was the game it would happen.
Yes, Porter is old news now. It's probably best to push forward and focus on the Steelers who actually love Pittsburgh football. But it does sting being reminded by Rodgers of what could've been in Week 4 or the remainder of the 2026 season.
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This article originally appeared on Steelers Wire: Steelers' Aaron Rodgers reveals saddest part of Joey Porter Jr. trade
