Joey Porter Jr. has begun running again, moving closer to recovery and potentially clearing him to play in the Dallas Cowboys' upcoming matchup against the San Francisco 49ers. While the cornerback did not participate in Wednesday’s practice, his return to running marks a positive shift in his physical status.
The timeline for Porter’s return remains tied to his participation in upcoming practice sessions. Dallas Cowboys reported that what occurs during Friday and Saturday practices will dictate whether the cornerback is cleared to line up against the 49ers’ offensive weapons.
The stakes for the Cowboys’ secondary are high. A game against San Francisco involves facing quarterback Brock Purdy and an elite receiving corps that includes All-Pro talents such as George Kittle and Christian McCaffrey.
Porter Dismisses Rumors Linking Injury to Contract Negotiations
Despite the physical setbacks, Porter has pushed back against online speculation linking his injury status to his current contract negotiations. He dismissed the idea that his absence from the field is anything other than physical, noting that he has already played in several games since joining the team in late September.
“I don’t know where that narrative came from,” Porter said. “I mean, I get it, it’s the internet, but I don’t really pay attention to that — or really care for that. My goal is to win games and play football and that’s what I want to do. So if there’s anything, if there’s any chance I could get on the field, I’m gonna get on the field and do what I do best.”
The cornerback expressed frustration with the inability to contribute on the field, particularly as he seeks to establish himself with his new team. He emphasized a desire to maintain focus on his recovery rather than external distractions.
“I mean, it’s definitely frustrating,” Porter said. “You know, I’m on a new team, and I want to show these guys what I can do, and I feel like I have been, for the most part, when I’m on the field. So when I can’t play football, it’s frustrating for everybody. I’m just trying to keep the main thing, the main thing, and get back as fast as possible.”
Porter Resumes Running Following Illness and Physical Injury
Porter’s recent absence from practice follows a period where he was restricted from running. His ability to resume running on Thursday suggests a progression in his rehabilitation, though the team’s medical and coaching staff must still evaluate his readiness for full contact.
The cornerback characterized his recent absences as a combination of illness and physical injury. He said that these factors are often outside of his direct control, even as he works to return to the lineup.
“I really don’t pay attention to the noise, you know?” Porter said. “I miss one game, because of my sickness, and then I miss one because I’m banged up. Football is gonna happen. I really can’t control that. All I can control is my effort to get back on the field.”
The Cowboys’ decision-making process will rely on his performance in the remaining practice windows this week. His ultimate goal is to rejoin his teammates as soon as his physical condition allows.
“And that’s what I’m trying to do: try to get better every day to be out there with the guys again,” Porter said.
