ISU CB Darien Porter's become a top NFL prospect in first season as a starter

[The Rob Gray]

ISU CB Darien Porter's become a top NFL prospect in first season as a starter

Nov 16, 2024; Ames, Iowa, USA; Iowa State Cyclones linebacker Jacob Ellis (44), defensive back Darien Porter (10) and defensive back Malik Verdon (7) celebrate during their game with the Cincinnati Bearcats at Jack Trice Stadium. The Iowa State Cyclones won the game 34-17. Mandatory Credit: Reese St

cyclonefanatic.com

 

[swiacy]

These kind of “stories” is why I am still a Cyclone fan. Here’s a guy that has worked his ass off and never gave up and now has a chance to realize a dream that kept him from giving up. If he gets an invite to the Senior Bowl, that is the ultimate statement from the NFL that they have identified him as a legitimate elite talent that has the potential to play in the NFL. Congrats to you, Darien, your belief in yourself has been rewarded!

 

[Peter]

He’s a beast on special teams too which will also help his draft stock. I could see someone like Pittsburgh snagging him in the 3rd round and developing him into a monster.

 

[CyState85]

If he is an NFL talent, why is he splitting series with Purchase?

 

[Daserop]

He's a udfa

 

[Aclone]

If he is an NFL talent, why is he splitting series with Purchase?

We have three corners playing. Last I looked, Purchase rotates in for both.

 

[nrg4isu]

If he is an NFL talent, why is he splitting series with Purchase?

In part because he's been injured.

 

[nrg4isu]

Porter is absolutely an NFL guy. Where he gets drafted, who knows. It seems almost random. But he has length, speed and is elite on special teams. Those attributes alone will get him on a roster.

 

[TABack]

DB's are sort of a dine a dozen in the NFL, but you can't teach 6'4 frame. Hope the best for him post ISU

 

[cyclone1209]

Porter is absolutely an NFL guy. Where he gets drafted, who knows. It seems almost random. But he has length, speed and is elite on special teams. Those attributes alone will get him on a roster.

I hope Porter goes to the combine because NFL GM's will be pitching a tent when they see his measurables, 40 time, and vertical.

 

[ghyland7]

iirc he had the Iowa high school state record for 400m dash when he was at Bettendorf.

 

[NWICY]

Well if it works out go get that money!

 

[CyState85]

In part because he's been injured.

I get that but against Cincy, he was in on kickoffs and was the gunner on punts but rotated every other series with Purchase. Granted, we didn’t need him against Cincy’s passing game but you’d think he would have been on the defensive side a bit more.

 

[Clonefan32]

If he is an NFL talent, why is he splitting series with Purchase?

Trying not to derail an otherwise nice story but this was my first thought as well. Also kind of makes you wonder why he couldn't take more snaps from Purchase in years prior. But hey-- great on you kid, keep up the good work!

 

[Clark]

Doesn't "top NFL prospect" generally mean first round (if not the top half of the first round)

I know the point of headlines are to get people to click on it but damn

 

[CyPack]

With his length and speed he will be an enticing prospect for NFL teams and given the fact that he has extensive special teams expierence that will make him more valuable. I could see him going somewhere around the 5th round, especially if he gets an invite to the Senior bown and possibly combine. He has the measurables for sure.

 

[stewart092284]

If he is an NFL talent, why is he splitting series with Purchase?

Well, because

A) Not everyone develops at the same rate, two years ago he probably wasn't
B) Injuries
C) Its not like Purchase is awful and
D) You want to build depth with your team and
E) We take Noel and Higgins off the field at times on offense. Should we? IDK. But we do.