Mike McCarthy used a specific word Monday: "impasse." The Pittsburgh Steelers coach says the team and cornerback Joey Porter Jr. are stuck in contract talks, with Porter still on the physically unable to perform list. The official reason is a back injury that flared up. The real issue is the deal.
McCarthy told ESPN the sides have not found common ground. USA Today reported the back injury, and the AP noted McCarthy wants to work with Porter. Wanting hasn't produced a contract.
This matters beyond one player. Porter, a cornerback, staying on PUP means he can't practice. That leaves the Steelers thinner at the position. Defensive planning changes. But the "impasse" is a two-way street. Porter loses leverage if he can't prove he's healthy. The Steelers lose a player they presumably need.
The back injury adds a wrinkle. Is Porter genuinely hurt, or is the PUP list a leverage move? McCarthy's frustration suggests he thinks the latter.
The team faces a decision: blink first and pay up, or hold firm and risk losing Porter for meaningful time. The rest of the roster will be watching.
The smart money is on the Steelers holding their ground. Porter is a cornerback, and the position has a short shelf life. A back injury is a negotiating red flag. If the Steelers blink, they set a bad precedent. If Porter blinks, he returns on the team's terms.
The contract won't stay at an impasse for long. The season is approaching, and both sides need a resolution. The Steelers have the leverage. They should use it.