Football standout Darien Chase has found a new college closer to home and family — Portland State.
The Union High graduate, who left Nebraska in February after one season, announced his decision on social media late Friday.
“I’ve chosen to stay off social media when it came to my recruiting process so I could make a clear decision on my next step and commit to a school that makes the most sense to me,” Chase posted. “Thank you to all the universities who have me the opportunity to play at their program. I’ll be forever grateful. With that being said, I’m proud to announce that I will be staying close to home and attending … Portland State University.”
A three-time All-Region selection, Chase was one of the most prized high school football recruits to come out of Clark County in many years.
In his senior season at Union, he helped the Titans win the 4A state championship and was selected the state co-player of the year by the Seattle Times.
Chase signed with Nebraska and played in four games at receiver last season for the Cornhuskers, preserving his redshirt season. He caught one pass for 13 yards.
In February, Chase decided to leave Nebraska and enter the transfer portal, citing several years of struggle with depression. While he called his time at Nebraska “amazing,” Chase added that family issues and being so far from home exacerbated his mental health issues.
Because he is moving from a NCAA Division I Football Bowl Subdivision (FBS) program to the second-tier Football Championship Subdivision (FCS), Chase will not be required to sit out a year, making him eligible to play for the Vikings in the fall.
“I would like to thank God for getting me through these difficult times, and my family’s amazing support while being home,” Chase said.
