Penn State Football Defensive End Chop Robinson (44) and Safety Jaylen Reed (7) and Cornerback Kalen King (4) and Safety Keaton Eillis (Photo by Gregory Fisher/Icon Sportswire)
Kalen King figures to play a starring role in the Penn State Football secondary in 2023, and is quickly garnering national preseason recognition.
The other cornerback opposite Joey Porter in 2022, Kalen King might end up being better than Porter by the time he finishes his Penn State career. In fact, King is already on the short list of the best cornerbacks in college football. A 247Sports True Freshman All-American in 2021, King made a huge jump last season. He picked off three times as many passes (3 INTs) than touchdowns he allowed (1). He also held opposing quarterbacks to a 45.8 completion percentage despite drawing a high volume of targets playing across from Porter.
Last season, King burst onto the scene with 30 total tackles, one forced fumble, and one fumble recovery to go with his three interceptions.
Viewed as a centerpiece of the defense, those close to the program believe King is a driving force behind some of the high expectations for Manny Diaz’s defense in 2023.
There’s a very real chance that King will finish the upcoming campaign as a first-team All-Conference, even potentially an All-American, if he plays up to his lofty potential.
Especially after Pro Football Focus lists King as the highest-graded cornerback in 2022, with a 93.1 overall mark. If King can replicate that success — or build on it — he’ll be just as difficult to throw on as Porter Jr. was last season.
Show off your Penn State Football fandom in this heathered grey hooded sweatshirt by Nike.
A note to our readers; If you make a purchase through one of our affiliate links, we may receive a commission