Steelers Release LB Joey Porter....

by Michael Bean on Mar 1, 2007 7:57 PM EST in News

The Steelers have made their first significant move of the offseason, releasing veteran LB Joey Porter. The move doesn't come as a surprise, as Porter was slated to earn $6 million in 2007, a vast sum for an aging player who didn't perform well in 2006.

Porter had become the face of the Steelers defense, mostly because of his loud mouth on and off the field. The Steelers undeniably benefitted from Porter's leadership at times, but as his performance declined, his routine got a bit stale.

The Steelers knew that Porter would be a distraction this offseason. With his contract expiring at the end of the 2007 season, Porter would have most likely demanded an extension during camp. We don't need any distractions this offseason while we adjust to the way Mike Tomlin does things. Porter certainly had the most potential to be disruptive.

The decisions makes perfect business sense, but let's not forget what Porter contributed to this franchise. During our historic Super Bowl run, Porter played some of his best football, and we may not have gotten one for the thumb had he not been as effective pressuring the quarterback as he was.

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Dookie

They also signed Dookie for a 2 year contract.

"It's time to plant some seeds. What that means is, hit them in the mouth. Ya know, plant some seeds. Show 'em what time it is." --Levon Kirkland

by steelerinchicago on Mar 2, 2007 1:34 AM EST reply actions

Haynes

I heard Haynes got cut too, which wouldn't come as a surprise with the ACL tear but still. I haven't heard this confirmed anywhere else but someone said they heard it on the TV. I think this is a good decision. I love Porter and will miss his game-time intensity, but his performance has dropped off quite a bit lately. Moss in the first round!

by Mikey on Mar 2, 2007 8:01 AM EST reply actions

Note

We should grab Adalius THOMAS! But we probably won't have enough for him either, although he's amazing. We'll have a chance to make a splash in free agency with the money there. Anyone think we'll go after one of the free agents? Maybe Duckett or Dayne then to address the RB need?

by Mikey on Mar 2, 2007 8:04 AM EST reply actions

I think dropping

Porter means the 4-3 is on the way. Not sure exactly how, when, etc..., but it will be here. I can't say I'm sad to see Porter go. I loved it when he was playing well of course, but I wasn't a fan of some of his antics.

"It's time to plant some seeds. What that means is, hit them in the mouth. Ya know, plant some seeds. Show 'em what time it is." --Levon Kirkland

by steelerinchicago on Mar 2, 2007 1:06 PM EST reply actions

4-3, 3-4

I want to see a hybrid defense that can adapt to the personnel the other team puts out.

Mikey I heard Haynes got cut too but that they were going to try to resign him to a smaller contract.

by schnifin on Mar 2, 2007 3:47 PM EST reply actions

thankyou Joey!

I can't believe all the negative comments I've read. Hasn't anyone noticed that he was like third or fourth on the team in tackles this past season? How about first in sacks?, No? How about tied for second in INTs then. Everyone says he has been declining in performance, but, that simply isn't true. Keep in mind he attained those numbers despite missing two games due to injury. I don't question the steelers' front office. Way too many solid decisions over the years to do that. I will not bash Porter though. I will miss his intensity on game days. Thanks for all the hard work, Joey, and thanks for killing Peyton in that playoff game that led to the one for the thumb!

GO STEELERS!!!

by steelerfreak76 on Mar 2, 2007 7:45 PM EST reply actions

Like I said

loved his performance, hated his comments/extracurricular activities.

"It's time to plant some seeds. What that means is, hit them in the mouth. Ya know, plant some seeds. Show 'em what time it is." --Levon Kirkland

by steelerinchicago on Mar 3, 2007 12:21 AM EST reply actions

joey porter, 3-4

jp was a good athlete and a good player but, i think it was more the system, just think of all of the lb's that have gone through here. porter will end up getting some big time coin and end up getting cut in 2 years, he might make 3. How many lb's left in the cowher era and went on to be better or even just as good?

with joey gone, i'd like to see them draft paul polzuncky (sp?)

the pats run a lil of both, why not at least try it. still have lebeau there he is the zone blitz ledgend might as well use his strength's to.

by elirock1983 on Mar 6, 2007 1:11 PM EST reply actions