A beloved figure in Pittsburgh, former Steelers linebacker and current linebackers coach Joey Porter is one of 94 Modern Era nominees nominated for the Pro Football Hall of Fame Class of 2017.

This is Porter’s first time being eligible for the highest distinction bestowed among professional football players.

Here’s what some of Porter’s former teammates had to say about him.

C Philip:

“The vets in Pittsburgh really take care of their guys. Joey Porter had a condo that I lived in my rookie year.”

OL Torrey:

“Joey Porter taught me how to practice and not only that but how to use my competitive nature to overcome disadvantages of height or strength.”

LB Frazier:

“If you didn’t run to the ball, Porter gave you that look.”

LB Roper:

“We were all friends. We ate together weekly and Porter’s house was my go to on holidays.”

S Lorello:

“There was never a shortage of Jokes when Joey Porter was around, either. He’s maybe one of the funniest guys I’ve met.”

OL Brooks:

“When we played Cleveland and that running back – Green – was mouthing off to Bussy (Bettis), I remember telling Joey Porter that that rookie was disrespecting Bussy. He said. “You’re right!”. Next thing, the fight happens and Joey gets kicked out of the game. Harrison comes in and he gets three sacks. You remember those little things that happen.”

WR Cobb:

“There was a time I had to block Joey Porter coming off the end in practice and I recall a coach saying “die with dignity”. Joey took it light and I survived.”

QB Batch:

“Porter had his “Who ride” chant after a win. To hear that after every win – I grew to love that.”

S Logan:

“Joey Porter had to be the biggest character that I played with. He always had something to say. But his desire to be the best and play the game at 150% made you love him.”

WR Blackwell:

“I remember when Joey Porter came up to me on the sidelines one day when I was injured. I was holding the clipboard and he said to me “Willie Bo – you look like a real coach!” I didn’t think much of it at the time. I was still a player – I just wanted to heal and play. But I guess then my teammates looked at me for information like I was a coach.”

QB Martin:

“Porter had those expensive remote control cars that they’d race at Latrobe”

RB Fuamatu-Ma’afasla:

 “Porter was also so fast and could run you over. He was so athletic.”

WR Doering:

“Porter did a great Cowher impression – he had the facial expression and the chin going…he was probably the only guy that could get away with that.”

CB Poteat: ”

Porter was always talking tough and trying to compete with someone on something. “

Author Bill Mousey:

“I think he (James Harrison) learned how to be a professional from folks like Jason Gildon and Joey Porter. “