Steelers’ Joey Porter Jr. accomplishes something his dad never could

"This is definitely something I'm going to brag to (my dad) about when I get home," said Porter Jr. when asked about winning an award his dad didn't. 

Porter Jr. can rub it in when you consider he didn't even start until Week 8. The Steelers are notorious for working their rookies in slowly, but it was clear Porter Jr. was different from the jump, even if he chose the humble route:

"I think about that often," said Porter Jr. when asked about what his season would be like if he started since the beginning. "If I played Week 1, I don't know how my body would feel right now. I am glad they slowed the process down for me and I am feeling hot right now...

"...I am feeling great. It is definitely a long season. Around this time last year, I was getting ready for bowl prep already and hanging out with the family. But we have more games left. With that aspect, it's mentally and physically draining. But this is what I signed up for. I am not complaining. I get to do what I love to do every day."

The rookie wall can be daunting for most players, as they suddenly are thrust into the most demanding form of football they have ever played, along with the highest volume of games in their career. 

The Steelers knew that ahead of time, and safeguarded Porter from a disadvantageous situation, even if fans and media were clamoring for him since draft night. 

So this is just the beginning for Porter Jr. He self admittley has a long way to go before he gets where he wants to be, but being awarded Rookie of the Year in one of the league's most prestigious franchises is a good start.