Click Here to Purchase Tickets | Themes for 2024 Home Games | Complete Interview.
YPSILANTI, Mich. (EMUEagles.com) – For senior wide receiver Porter Rooks (Charlotte, N.C./Myers Park/NC State), the decision to transfer to Eastern Michigan University for his final year of eligibility was more than just a choice; it was a calculated move, a "bet" on himself and his future. After spending four years at North Carolina State University, Rooks found himself at a crossroads. He wanted a new challenge, a fresh environment where he could make a tangible impact in his final collegiate season. Now, as a senior wide receiver for the Eagles, Rooks is embracing his new role with enthusiasm and determination, eager to leave his mark on both the team and the Mid-American Conference.
A New Chapter in Ypsilanti
Rooks arrived at Eastern Michigan as one of 53 new players on the roster, a significant influx that has brought a new dynamic to the team. Despite the changes, Rooks quickly found his footing and began the process of integrating himself into the fabric of the team. "It's been a ball, especially transferring here for my last year," Rooks says. "Just looking forward to having fun with the guys. I feel like this is a new team with 53 new players, and being one of those 53, it's important to mesh and become one."
The decision to transfer to Eastern Michigan was rooted in Rooks' desire to be part of a gritty, blue-collar program that shared his commitment to winning at any cost. He saw an opportunity to help the Eagles reach their goals and was drawn to the team's underdog mentality. "I wanted to be a part of a gritty team, blue collar, and a program that wanted to win at any cost," Rooks explains. "I saw a great opportunity here that I could help this team accomplish the goals and things we want to do this year."
Leadership and Experience
As a fifth-year senior with extensive college football experience, Rooks has naturally assumed a leadership role within the wide receiver room. Having been through six different position coaches and experienced the ups and downs of a college football career, Rooks is a valuable resource for his younger teammates. "I've had six position coaches, man. I've been through a lot, seen a lot," Rooks says. "So there's not a lot of things they're going through that I haven't been through. I'm just trying to be a voice of reason for those guys and be a positive influence in the corner whenever they need it."
Rooks' approach to the game is rooted in his commitment to excellence and his focus on the details. Describing his style of play, he says, "I'm smooth. I try to be pretty smooth. Route running is an art, so I try to treat it as such. I take route running seriously. I try to fight to get open, fight to be available for the quarterback, and do whatever I can for my team."
This dedication has not gone unnoticed. Rooks has been identified as one of the breakout newcomers in the MAC this season, with great expectations surrounding his performance. However, Rooks remains grounded, understanding that accolades mean little without results on the field. "Everybody's going to talk, but at the end of the day, you got to keep the main thing the main thing, and that's playing ball," he says. "Expectations are one thing, but reality is another."
A Bond Beyond the Field
Rooks' transition to Eastern Michigan was made smoother by the presence of a familiar face—Delbert Mimms III (Indianapolis, Ind./Ben Davis/NC State), a former teammate from NC State. The two North Carolina natives have a strong bond that has only grown stronger since their arrival in Ypsilanti. "It was a surreal situation, especially for a North Carolina boy coming all the way up to Michigan," Rooks reflects. "To have him up here, I know he's going to tear this conference up. I can't wait to go to battle with him one more time."
This camaraderie is emblematic of the tight-knit culture Rooks has found at Eastern Michigan. The team's theme for the year, "BET"—which stands for "Believe. Excellence. Together"—resonates deeply with Rooks. "Believe, Excellence, Together literally says it all for itself," he says. "It means a lot to this team, and we're going to execute, and we're going to take that bet slogan, that bet mindset, that bet lifestyle, and we're going to take that on Saturdays."
Looking Ahead
As Rooks prepares for his first game under the lights at Rynearson Stadium, he is filled with anticipation. The thought of running out onto the field, hearing the cannons fire, and catching a touchdown pass on the iconic gray turf is something he eagerly looks forward to. "I think it's going to be electric," Rooks says. "Playing on the gray field, learning the history behind it, and what it represents—it's special. We're willing to play anywhere, anytime."
Rooks' journey has been marked by growth, both on and off the field. Reflecting on his college career, he offers a piece of advice to his younger self: "Eliminate comparison. Being a high-rated guy out of high school, having plenty of offers, at the end of the day, you can only go to one. Everybody's path is different, so really just keep your head down, focus on you, and focus on being your best self."
For Rooks, this final season is about more than just football—it's about proving to himself and others that he made the right choice. It's about embracing the challenge, leading by example, and leaving a legacy at Eastern Michigan University. And as he steps onto the field this season, he knows that no matter the outcome, he's ready to "bet" on himself and his team, confident that his best will be enough.
