2025 NFL Draft Prospect Interview: Kellen Porter, RB, Lincoln University

• Name: Kellen Porter
• Position: RB/ATH
• College: Lincoln University
• Height: 6’1
• Weight: 205
• Twitter: kellporter20
• Instagram: skoonyy

What makes you a top prospect at your position in the 2025 NFL Draft?

What makes me a top prospect at the running back is the combination of consistency, work ethic, and versatility. In my collegiate career, which includes stints at Missouri State University playing as a true freshman, the University of Indianapolis averaging 5 ypc over 3 years, and finishing up at Lincoln University showcased my ability to adapt and contribute in various offensive systems. I am known for my vision, decision-making on the field, good pass protector, and exploiting running lanes being a dependable option for consistent yardage. I can be used to run in between tackles and catch the ball out the back field, even at the wide receiver position.

What is one thing that NFL teams should know about you?

One thing a NFL or any professional ball club that takes a chance on me will get someone who is willing to roll up their sleeves and work, and will make plays to help teams win. I understand that it is a process to earn my stripes whether it’s on offense, special teams, or even defense if that is what the team needs. Being available to make a play every time my number is called and with the right opportunity I can showcase my ability. I take pride in blocking both pass and run, making defenders miss, being physical, mentally strong, paying attention to the little details, quickly learning the playbook, and being a great locker room guy is what teams will get.  

If you could donate to one cause in the world, what would it be?

If I could donate to one cause, it would definitely be making quality education accessible to everyone. I think education is super powerful because it can break the cycle of poverty and help tackle inequality. By supporting schools and programs, especially in underserved areas, people can get the tools they need to build better lives and create opportunities for themselves. Education also helps solve big global issues like climate change and gender inequality because it empowers people with the knowledge to make real change. Honestly, it’s the foundation for a better future for everyone.

Who was your role model?

My role model is my Papa, Andre Harris. He is a very hard-working man who pays attention to the smallest details, treats everyone with respect, is a high official for the city courts for  Saint Louis, and he is an anchor in our family who keeps everyone together. He invested heavily in me growing up to stay busy in order to not hang out with the bad crowds on my street. He taught me what it is like to grind and compete in aspects in life besides sports.

Who is your favorite NFL team?

Green Bay Packers and Los Angeles Rams (grew up St. Louis Rams fan, kid in me won’t let them go)

Who is the most underrated teammate at your school?

Isaiah Tate, a young QB who displayed patience, intelligence, and athletic ability for a young team under a new coach.  We had a connection in the backfield and had each other’s back

What is your biggest pet peeve?

My biggest pet peeve is people not taking things seriously, especially when others can be affected. You can always have fun, but when it is time to work it is time to work. For instance, someone would say the coach isn’t being fair, but they don’t study their plays. Don’t go around trying to change other people’s minds so they can agree with you or go against the culture.

Who is your favorite teacher ever?

My favorite teacher ever was Mrs. Patty, my kindergarten teacher. She was very hard on me and at the time I didn’t know why. Turns out she saw potential in me and made sure I gave her my best every day when I went to school. She gave me extra work to do when she saw I got done faster than the other students and even encouraged me to read books above my level which is why I enjoy reading now. I am currently reading The Slight Edge by Jeff Olson.

Overcoming adversity is what defines character, what was the hardest moment in your life to overcome?

The hardest moment in my life to overcome was dealing with two deaths of my first cousin and best friend both on Thanksgiving a year apart. It hurts losing people you love, especially people you see every day and who have been there through the rough times as well as the good times. We didn’t grow up rich, but we made the best of it by supporting each other and challenging each other to be our best on the field and even comparing test scores. Their death made me realize my day could be anytime and I have to live life to the fullest by chasing my dreams and putting myself in a position to be successful to take care of my future family. They both were very humble and did great things in the community. 

If you could have any franchise restaurant in your house what would it be?

This is a very hard decision. I would choose McDonalds because they have breakfast, lunch, dinner, desserts, and smoothies. Can go wrong with Mickey Ds!

What is your favorite snack food?

Mike n Ikes. I even eat them before every game

What is your degree in?

Business Administration and Management

If you could have dinner with three people dead or alive, who would it be and why?

I would have dinner with Martin Luther King Jr, Barack Obama, and Virgil Abloh. I would sit down with MLK and Obama to discuss history and gain knowledge on life because those guys are great role models for men and people in the Black community. I own my own clothing brand so meeting the fashion mogul Virgil who created Offwhite and was a designer for major clothing companies like Louis Vuitton could give me advice on how to help my business grow and even teach me new skills.

What is your biggest weakness?

My biggest weakness is overthinking at times. Sometimes I will be a little too patient when I should just hit the hole. A 10-yard gain that should’ve been 15, maybe 20 yards if I just hit the hole sooner. I do a great job by being patient, and putting my foot in the ground, and making defenders miss going full speed north and south, not running east and west.