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5 nightmare scenarios for Steelers 2023 season and how to avoid them

By Rucker Haringey

Jan 1, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) warmup before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports
Jan 1, 2023; Baltimore, Maryland, USA; Pittsburgh Steelers quarterback Kenny Pickett (8) warmup before the game against the Baltimore Ravens at M&T Bank Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Tommy Gilligan-USA TODAY Sports /
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The Steelers need Joey Porter Jr. to make an immediate impact.Hes Dr 102222 WhiteoutSyndication York Daily Record
The Steelers need Joey Porter Jr. to make an immediate impact.Hes Dr 102222 WhiteoutSyndication York Daily Record /

4. Joey Porter Jr. could commit too many penalties

The Steelers landing Porter Jr. in Round 2 of this year’s Draft was more than just a nice story. It’s a pick that combined nice value at a position of real need for Pittsburgh.

The former Penn State standout has every chance of emerging as a Week 1 starter for Tomlin’s defense. He’s got the physical tools required to compete with big wideouts at the line of scrimmage. One concern about Porter Jr’s transition to the pro game will be whether or not he’s too aggressive against receivers near the line of scrimmage.

If he earns an early reputation for committing penalties with his hands it’s going to really put a dent in his effectiveness as a cover corner. If Porter Jr. isn’t playable right away then the Steelers’ secondary might be even worse than it was in 2022.

The best way for Pittsburgh to help Porter Jr. is to tell veteran teammate Patrick Peterson to take the rookie under his wing immediately. Peterson didn’t sign in Pittsburgh to be a mentor, but that might be the best thing he can do for the Steelers this season. He’s seen everything there is to see in the NFL and could help ease Porter Jr’s transition.

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