Without a doubt, the Las Vegas Raiders had the biggest impact move to improve their defense. In the recent NFL Draft, they did pick up cornerback Darien Porter 90th overall. A former star at Iowa State University, Porter has a highly decorated resume and diverse skill set. His skills have led to inevitable comparisons to the Seahawks’ Hall of Fame former star Richard Sherman. His transition from wide receiver to cornerback during his six-year college career positions him as a promising asset for the Raiders.
Porter’s time at Iowa State covered 64 thrilling contests. He exhibited incredible versatility, thriving as a wide receiver for three seasons before making an NFL-like position switch to dominate as a cornerback the next three. His athletic prowess is underscored by extraordinary accomplishments. He has had proper success blocking kicks, including an Iowa State-record four punts and one field goal attempt, making him only the sixth player in Iowa State history to have three or more blocked kicks.
During his full season on the field, Porter racked up 409 defensive snaps, including 192 in coverage. As a senior, he posted 64 tackles, registered seven pass breakups, and picked off two passes. In 2024, he played in all 14 games, starting seven at corner. He had an immediate and lasting influence, clearly asserting his talent and preparedness for the next level.
Porter’s move from wide out to cover man has done wonders for his growth. Yet, it’s provided for him a different perspective on the game. His ability, his college coaches like Hank Poteat have seen huge strides over the last 3-4 months from him. Poteat noted that regardless of anything else, one thing is clear — Porter has developed tremendously. He is much more patient and under control receiving the ball.
“A year ago, he would be in position but wasn’t making those plays that he made this year.” – Hank Poteat
With a physical profile that pops, Porter checks in at 6-foot-3, 195 pounds. His arm span is an equally impressive 32 inches. He recorded a vertical jump of 38 inches and ran 40 yards in a blistering 4.54 seconds. That combination of size, length, speed, and ball skills has turned a lot of heads.
Pete Carroll, the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks, has drawn parallels between Porter and Sherman, noting the valuable attributes they share. Carroll stressed how crucial it is to have defenders with both speed and verticality at their disposal.
“We’ve always looked for guys that are fast, long and tall because of the way we coach them.” – Pete Carroll
Porter himself recognizes the potential within him, stating his desire to learn and grow from the coaching staff. He raised his hand and said he would do the work to cultivate his place in the pecking order of the squad.
“I’ll have to work and earn that opportunity. But it’s exciting for me to be put in this position to have that instant contribution on the defensive side.” – Darien Porter
Porter is beginning his third professional season with the Raiders. He just wants to expand the excellent foundation he laid while in college. His last year at Iowa State was undoubtedly his best, showing significant strides in his game. He worked on really learning to fight through position and getting plays down.
“We worked on being in the right position and executing the play, whether it was a pass breakup or a takeaway. I feel like he did a good job with that.” – Hank Poteat
Jon Heacock, another Iowa State Assistant touted Porters closing speed and technical skills. He recognized Porter’s impact in the continued battle for the ball on critical plays.
“It was probably as good a play as I’ve seen.” – Jon Heacock
As Porter gets comfortable with the Raiders’ defensive scheme, the hope is that he displays higher expectations. Yet both his college coaches and the Raiders’ coaching staff feel like he hasn’t hit his ceiling just yet. They predict his future to be even brighter and think there is plenty more still to come from this immensely talented alley cat.
Leave a Reply