By MATT VAUTOUR
AMHERST — Jackson Porter said the last time he played cornerback seems like a long time ago.
Then a redshirt freshman, he started eight games in 2014. He had 41 tackles and two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. But playing opposite all-conference corner Randall Jette, opposing quarterbacks found success throwing in Porter’s direction.
A year ago, with UAB transfer Kelton Bracket taking over Porter’s starting spot, Porter switched to receiver, but didn’t see much action, catching one pass for 7 yards.
He switched back to corner in the spring and as UMass’ Sept. 3 opener at Florida approaches, he said he’s better than he’s ever been.
“Corner has been very good to me. I’m looking forward to shining this year and showing everyone what I can do,” Porter said. “Going from corner to receiver back to corner has taught me a lot. It’s given me a lot of confidence going back into it. It’s helped me appreciate the position.”
UMass coach Mark Whipple said moving him last year was a mistake, but he thought the experience helped Porter.
“In hindsight, we thought we were deep there (at corner) and then we got banged up in the secondary,” Whipple said. “Playing receiver helped him. We talked about that after the spring. I think he learned a lot being a receiver. He had a really good spring and a really good camp.”
He’s a likely starter alongside sophomore James Allen, who changed his name from James Oliphant last year.
CAMP CLOSES — Wednesday’s practice marked the end of training camp as the team practiced on the grass at Gladchuk Field for the last time.
The team will simulate game situations at McGuirk Stadium on Thursday. After being introduced to Florida preparation Friday morning, the players will get the rest of Friday and all of Saturday off before moving into full game-week mode Sunday.
Whipple was pleased with camp as a whole.
“It’s been far and away our best one. I think they’re in good shape. Guys are looking after one another. It was a fast 17 days,” he said.
MISCELLANEOUS — UMass announced a Boston pep rally Sept. 9 at 12:30 p.m. at the Boston Harbor Hotel prior to the Sept. 10 home opener against Boston College.
Whipple and Chancellor Kumble Subbaswamy will speak and the marching band will perform.
Matt Vautour can be reached at mvautour@gazettenet.com. Get UMass coverage delivered in your Facebook news feed at www.facebook.com/GazetteUMassCoverage