Porter Leads Rattlers to Arena Bowl XXVI Win
By Norman Rhebus
8/17/13
Eight months ago to the day Chase Porter was cut by the New York Jets after two seasons in the NFL. The cut came after what the Jets called a failed experiment of moving Porter to wide receiver.
"He's got the physical and mental ability to be a good receiver in the league." Jets GM Mike Tannenbaum said at the time. "It was obvious he wasn't content with the move."
Porter was drafted in 2011 by the Jets with the fifth pick in the seventh round. He played well in the preseason and appeared in one regular season game, completing one of three pass attempts for five yards.
The Jets revamped their quarterback position in 2012 and Porter was the odd man out. Not wanting to give up on him the team felt he had the tools to transition to receiver.
After playing primarily on special teams during the 2012 season Porter was cut.
"It was tough then you know. I had failed and I was really searching for direction." Porter explained.
The direction came when Rattlers' coach Kevin Guy called him the day after the Jets had cut him loose.
"We felt he had the skill set needed to play at a high level in the league and we were really crossing our fingers that he would come play."
Guy was right. Porter threw for over 4,800 yards with 110 touchdowns (both good for second in the league) and 15 interceptions, leading Arizona to a 15-3 record and to the Arena Bowl.
Porter was also named to the All-Arena Second Team.
In the Arena Bowl Porter completed 20 of 29 passes for 315 yards with six touchdowns in a back and forth 48-39 win over the Soul.
"It feels incredible!" Porter exclaimed after the win. "To come so close in college and then to have thins kind of fall apart in the NFL I wasn't sure I'd have an opportunity to compete for another championship at any level. This is awesome! Coach Guy and all the guys are awesome. I'm going to cherish this for as long as I live!"
Porter was asked if he would consider a return to the NFL if the chance presented itself.
"No. Not now. I'll stay here as long as they'll have me." Was his response.
Arizona fans and fans of the league in general surely hope that's a long time.