Rise to Success: Career Highlights of Clinton Portis

Discover the career path of Clinton Portis, from the first major opportunity to industry-changing achievements.

Clinton Portis is a former NFL running back and current college football coach at Delaware State University (DSU). Drafted by the Denver Broncos in 2002, he is most known for his seven seasons as the starting running back for the Washington Redskins. Portis averaged 81.2 rushing yards per game with the Redskins, earning him recognition as one of the 80 Greatest Redskins.

Sections (3)

Full Timeline Career & Achievements Challenges & Struggles

1975: True Freshman Start

In 1975, Clinton Portis became only the second true freshman to start at running back for the Miami Hurricanes, demonstrating his early talent and impact on the team.

2001: Hurricanes win National Championship

In 2001, Clinton Portis had his best season with the Miami Hurricanes, rushing for 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns, contributing to the team's National Championship victory.

2002: Drafted by the Denver Broncos

In 2002, Clinton Portis was drafted by the Denver Broncos with the 51st overall pick in the second round of the NFL draft, marking the beginning of his NFL career.

2004: Traded to Washington Redskins

Before the 2004 season, the Denver Broncos traded Clinton Portis to the Washington Redskins for cornerback Champ Bailey and a second-round draft pick. Washington signed Portis to an eight-year contract worth $50.5 million.

2004: Adjustment to Redskins' Running Style

During the 2004 season, Clinton Portis had to adjust to coach Joe Gibbs' power running style with the Washington Redskins, resulting in 1,315 rushing yards and eight total touchdowns.

2005: Improved Season with Redskins

In the 2005 season, Clinton Portis bounced back with the Washington Redskins as coach Gibbs implemented more outside running plays, leading to 12 total touchdowns and a better fit for Portis' running style.

2007: Portis's 2007 Season

In 2007, Clinton Portis finished the season with 1,262 yards rushing, 11 rushing touchdowns, and 389 yards receiving with the Washington Redskins.

2008: Falls short of 1500 yard rushing season

In 2008, Clinton Portis rushed for 1487 yards, narrowly missing his fourth 1500-yard rushing season in seven years. Despite injuries, he was selected to the Pro Bowl.

2008: Guaranteed Salaries

In 2008, the Washington Redskins agreed to guarantee Clinton Portis's 2008-2009 and a large portion of his 2010 base salaries, totaling up to $15 million in guarantees, along with a $9.32 million signing bonus.

2009: Guaranteed Salaries

In 2009, the Washington Redskins agreed to guarantee Clinton Portis's 2008-2009 and a large portion of his 2010 base salaries, totaling up to $15 million in guarantees, along with a $9.32 million signing bonus.

2010: Injuries and Reunion with Mike Shanahan

In 2010, Clinton Portis reunited with former coach Mike Shanahan but faced abdomen and groin injuries, playing only five games and tallying 227 rushing yards for the Washington Redskins.

2010: Guaranteed Salaries

In 2010, the Washington Redskins agreed to guarantee Clinton Portis's 2008-2009 and a large portion of his 2010 base salaries, totaling up to $15 million in guarantees, along with a $9.32 million signing bonus.

February 28, 2011: Released by Washington Redskins

On February 28, 2011, Clinton Portis was released by the Washington Redskins after failed contract re-negotiations and repeated injuries, marking the end of his tenure with the team.

February 2025: Hired as Running Backs Coach

In February 2025, Clinton Portis was hired by Delaware State University as the running backs coach, joining the new staff under head coach DeSean Jackson.