Fans know the words associated with linebacker Joey Porter: talented, emotional, controversial. Add to that two more, former Steeler.

His play helped the Steelers win a Super Bowl 13 months ago. But yesterday his $5 million salary -- and the chance he might hold out for more -- made Porter expendable. He was cut by the Steelers.

Porter was a third-round draft pick in 1999 from Colorado State. He moved into the starting lineup the next season and started 106 games. His legacy on the field: 60 career sacks, fourth on the team's list. He made three of the past five Pro Bowls. Porter was an All-Pro twice. He was the team's co-MVP in 2002. He was an acknowledged leader on and off the field. Porter served as a team co-captain the past four seasons.

Porter liked to call the Steelers defense "the Big Nasty." He was a ferocious player for the Steelers -- the kind of guy you want to have on YOUR side.

This presentation recaps Porter's career with pictures made by Post-Gazette photographers Peter Diana, Matt Freed, Robin Rombach, Tony Tye and John Beale.

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