Whispers behind the scenes said the 2016 Texas football recruiting class could blow up like a crate of dynamite come signing day. Katy (TX) running back Kyle Porter lit the fuse today when he announced his intention to sign with the University of Texas. The US Army All-American chose Texas over offers from TCU, Arkansas, Oregon, and Wisconsin among others.
Texas has had trouble making inroads to Katy High School in the past. Located in the greater Houston area, Katy is a high school powerhouse known for a long and distinguished tradition of success and physical play. Porter helped Katy capture a state championship this season before being named as an Army All-American. With a stacked running back stable already on campus in Austin, Texas chose to be selective in recruiting their future tailback. Porter is a perfect transition back to come in behind D’Onta Foreman and Chris Warren, while doing battle with the other backs on the roster for playing time. Since Porter doesn’t use twitter or other social media, his commitment was announced by many of his teammates on twitter. Porter is the 39th ranked prospect on the 2016 HornSports top 50.
Film Analysis:
Porter has a rock solid build at 5’11 190 lbs., with thick legs and narrow hips. He operates out of a power run offense usually from single back sets. He’s best running power concepts, but his ability to succeed in zone schemes indicate he would have no problem operating in a power spread offense. Porter is slower to the hole than most, but he is very fast through the hole. He explodes at just the right moment to exploit daylight. His top speed isn’t explosive, but Porter is very quick in short distance. He has strong change of direction skills and a knack for “getting skinny†to avoid solid hits being put on him. Porter has a fair amount of wiggle, and his agility and balance are top notch. In the open field, he runs behind his pads very well, and uses a good deal of power to break through tackles. Porter is also a weapon in the passing game, especially on screens and swing passes. He showed toughness this season, competing very well in the playoffs with a bum ankle. That injury kept him out of the Army All-American game, and in a boot.
Final Verdict:
This one kind of came out of nowhere. We expected Porter to announce his decision on signing day, and we expected TCU to be his choice based on what we were hearing. What a start to an eventful 48 hours for Charlie Strong and the Longhorns. Porter can fight for third string reps right away, and will be in the mix to start within a few years. While he isn’t elite at any one trait, Porter has serious skills in several areas. His ceiling suggests a multi-year starter and all conference performer with an NFL future ahead of him.
