The #3 Sophomore Wideout In California: Damani Porras
Damani Porras is a 4 Star recruit who plays Wide Receiver at Downey High School. Porras is ranked as the 307th best recruit in the class of 2027 and is ranked as a top 50 Wide Receiver in the class as well. In addition, Porras is listed as a top 40 recruit in the state of California and is listed as the #3 Wide Receiver in the state of California. He holds offers from schools such as Arizona, Utah and Oklahoma State.
Who are some role models in your life?
One of the biggest role models in my life is my uncle Michael. He’s always preached the importance of working hard—especially when no one’s watching. That mindset has stuck with me and shaped how I approach everything I do.
What artists do you listen to pregame to get hyped up?
Before games, I lock in with Kanye West, Chief Keef, and Drake. Their music gets me in the right headspace and helps me zone in.
What are the strengths of your game?
My biggest strength is staying calm under pressure. I also take a lot of pride in my football IQ—being able to read coverages and make adjustments on the fly gives me a real edge out there.
What is your favorite memory of your career?
When I was 10, I found out my grandmother passed away the morning of a game. I told my dad I wanted to play that day for her. I ended up scoring four touchdowns, and we won our first game of the season. That moment meant everything to me.
What advice would you give to an aspiring D1 athlete?
Don’t ever get discouraged. You don’t have to be 6’2″ or 200 pounds to be great. Just keep grinding. No matter how you feel, show up and put in the work. Hard work always gets noticed eventually.
If you could travel anywhere in the world, where would it be?
Switzerland. I’ve always wanted to experience the peaceful scenery out there. It seems like the perfect place to reset and reflect.
How old were you when you fell in love with the game?
I fell in love with football when I was five years old. I remember watching my older brother make one-handed catches and run deep routes—I knew right then I wanted to be just like him.
If you could meet one sports hero, who would it be?
Odell Beckham Jr. He’s been my favorite player for a long time, and I’d love the chance to talk football with him and learn from his experience.
What is your favorite sports moment as a fan?
Definitely the Rams vs. Bengals Super Bowl. Watching Matthew Stafford lead that final drive and hit Cooper Kupp for the game-winning touchdown was unforgettable. It was one of those moments you never forget as a fan.
