Cowboys’ Newly Traded Joey Porter Jr.’s ‘Bad Virus’ ‘Got Significantly Worse’ Before He Missed Bucs Loss

Joey Porter Jr. arrived at the Dallas Cowboys' stadium expecting to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but he was visibly ill upon his arrival. Reports indicate that he was heavily fatigued and vomiting due to a severe illness. Because of his condition, he was sent home to recover and was listed as inactive just 1 hour and 45 minutes before kickoff.

The team used this opportunity to realign their secondary, moving DaRon Bland outside and allowing Malik Hooker and Caleb Downs to take on more responsibility. Porter, who was selected as the Steelers' first-round pick in 2023, must remain inactive for two games before the 2027 sixth-round pick becomes eligible for trade. Coach Brian Schottenheimer had mentioned Porter would see increased playing time, but his absence will require adjustments from the Cowboys' defense.