Heading into the 2025 NFL Draft, the Las Vegas Raiders knew they needed to add some depth at the cornerback position. In doing so, they got quite an exciting player in Darien Porter.
One fun quirk about Porter is his versatility. Porter began his collegiate career as a wide receiver before transitioning to cornerback, the position for which he received his draft pick. Travis Hunter has gotten a ton of hype as a two-way player, but could the Raiders have one of their own in Darien Porter? Let’s take a look.
Porter’s History As A WR
Given his skillset, Porter would fit the archetype of a talented receiver. He’s tall, with blazing speed, and can make cuts on a dime. That instantly feels like a matchup nightmare for defenders. Unfortunately, though, he didn’t get much of a chance to showcase that ability while attending Iowa State. He switched to receiver primarily because it might lead to more playing time.
Indeed, it did.
Porter was able to work his way into a starting role after switching to the defensive side of the ball. For that reason, we never really got to see how he might produce as a receiver at the collegiate level. He was great in high school, but it’s unclear how that will translate to the NFL’s offensive side.
What Did Porter Accomplish As A CB?
Once switching to defense, Porter got most of his collegiate reps. He played in 12 games in each of the three seasons upon switching positions and tallied 51 total tackles with six passes defended and three interceptions, all of which came in 2024.
2024 proved to be his most successful season. He struggled at times to put things together, which is understandable because he changed positions relatively late in his career and had to learn a new position at a high level of competition. However, that year was when he looked much more complete, and that’s evidenced by his collegiate career-high three interceptions and pair of pass deflections.
Darien Porter SHOULD Be A Two-Way Player, But In Limited Fashion
For what it’s worth, Porter does have experience in this role. He played both ways in high school. Yes, I know that’s far from the same level of talent as the NFL. Still, it does show that he understands what it takes to play both sides of the ball in the same game.
As for the Raiders, his priority will be and should be defense. The Raiders drafted him for defense, a position where they will require the most assistance. It’s unclear if he’ll immediately earn a starting role but the vast majority of his snaps will come here.
However, in certain cases, he could be useful on the offensive side of the ball.
He’s played receiver as recently as 2021, but he only caught one pass at the position in college. Therefore, he should be used sparingly in that role in the NFL. He certainly won’t be one of their top options in terms of pass-catching. Las Vegas already has Jakobi Meyers, Jack Bech, Tre Tucker, and Don’te Thornton Jr. as receivers.
However, Porter could get some looks in special situations. He could be an asset on trick plays. Or, he could take the field on third and impossibly long scenarios. That’s where his speed would allow him to eat up yards. Although his appearances would be limited, he could occasionally contribute as a receiver. Having him could also allow the Raiders to keep one less receiver on the roster if they have any tough decisions on their hands as the rosters trim down.
More Darien Porter, Las Vegas Raiders Content
Two Rookies Are Standing Out To Maxx Crosby
Ramble Film Room: Darien Porter Breakdown
One Free Agent The Raiders Would Benefit From
*Top Photo: Getty Images