Potter played his university football with the University of Ottawa Gee Gees; he was named their most valuable player of 1971, and was made captain in 1972.[2] He began a 12-year career with the Eskimos in 1974. During this time, he was paired with Danny Kepley and Tom Towns for eight years, forming a linebacking unit that led Edmonton to reach the Grey Cup final seven times, winning six out of seven. Potter won Defensive Player of the Game and all star in 1980. He finished his career in 1984 with the Toronto Argonauts, playing 5 games.