The Portland State Vikings continued their spring football practice on Apr. 8, with the team’s second session held at Stott Community Field. Head Coach Chris Fisk provided an overview of the defensive roster and special teams as preparations for the upcoming season move forward.
This update is significant as it marks a period of transition for the Vikings, who have seen several key players depart due to graduation and transfers, particularly along the defensive line. Despite these losses, 26 defensive players are returning, joined by 16 newcomers competing for positions during spring practice.
Fisk addressed each position group in detail. On the defensive line, he said: “We talk about building from the inside out, and there are some guys from the previous roster that we are excited about at defensive tackle. You start with Herbert Ware. He has the ability to do some things for us. He has ability, quickness on the snap, and has put on some good size and strength this winter.” Fisk also highlighted Eddie Vega’s performance: “Eddie Vega is someone we have been extremely impressed with this winter. His ability, his agility, his speed, his get off on the ball, and his strength numbers in the weight room are off the charts.” The coach acknowledged that finding reliable edge players remains a challenge but expressed optimism about recent transfers such as Brogan De’Asis and Kayce Tinner.
Discussing linebackers, Fisk said: “I look at the linebackers like I do the wide receivers. I think we are loaded with talent at that position.” He praised Jaxton Helmstetler as a “special talent” expected to be featured in their scheme and noted Logan Lisherness’s experience as beneficial to team depth.
In reviewing defensive backs—a group without returning starters—Fisk said: “We lost a lot of good football players here that transferred out at those positions but we have a lot of players to look at this spring.” He singled out Gio Kafentzis for praise as well as returner Diontaye Moorman: “Returner Diontaye Moorman we feel really good about. We think he will turn into something special.” Competition among new arrivals is expected to be strong throughout camp.
On special teams duties following graduation of previous kickers and punters, Fisk said: “I really like Brock Fleming, the long snapper… Dylan Stevens and Joshua Hossman Lees are in an open competition at kicker… Kyler Phillips we are really excited about coming in…we think he will be our punter.”
Spring practices continue through early May with multiple sessions scheduled each week leading up to a scrimmage at Kiggins Bowl on May 2 and concluding with a Spring Football Game at Hillsboro Stadium on May 8.
