Kalen King:
Scouting Reports:
NFL Draft Buzz: https://www.nfldraftbuzz.com/Player/Kalen-King-CB-PennState
Athlonsports: https://athlonsports.com/nfl/2024-nfl-draft-kalen-king-scouting-report-penn-state-nittany-lions
Articles:
2024 NFL Draft: Five notable fallers in PFF's mock draft simulator (CB KALEN KING, PENN STATE - PFF Big board rank: 177. ADP on Jan. 8: 49. ADP on April 22: 277. Change: -128. Although King has a lot of athletic potential at outside cornerback, his anticipation, instincts and technique are too inconsistent. He projects as a mid-round prospect who needs time to develop, but he offers a starting-caliber ceiling.) (4-25-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-the-five-biggest-fallers-in-pffs-mock-draft-simulator
Seven big-name college football standouts who could be in for long wait in 2024 NFL draft (Kalen King, CB, Penn State: At this point last year, King earned premature buzz of a potential top 50 pick thanks to his hypercompetitive style and impressive ball production (21 passes defensed in 2022). Then, things started to unravel, as the 5-11, 190-pound cornerback suffered several shaky outings, including one in a showcase matchup with Ohio State wide receiver and projected top-five selection Marvin Harrison Jr. The disappointing season heightened concerns about King lacking the recovery speed to replicate his playmaking prowess at the next level. His struggles at the Senior Bowl and 4.61-second 40-yard dash at the NFL scouting combine further sunk his stock. Being dropped into a zone-heavy scheme or moving to safety could help hide some of his shortcomings, but he still has to become a much more composed player when working downhill – particularly as a tackler. The middle of Day 3 seems like a reasonable range.) (4-22-24): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2024/04/22/2024-nfl-draft-jordan-travis-sam-hartman/73402772007/
6 prospects whose stock is falling before the 2024 NFL Draft, from T'Vondre Sweat to Keon Coleman (4
CB Kalen King, Penn State: King’s estimation has plummeted throughout the tail end of 2023 and into 2024, taking him from potential first-round status — his place on the consensus big board once peaked at 32nd — into a place on Day 3. He was a monster in 2022, but was beaten consistently in his final season as a Nittany Lion as his passes defensed dropped from 18 to two. There are plenty of holes in King’s game, but teams would still have been willing to take a chance on his upside after that solid sophomore campaign if he’d displayed elite athleticism. Instead, King combines average size with below-average straight line speed that suggests his issues in deep coverage won’t go away. If he can clean up his positioning and reclaim the ball tracking and press skills that made him so dangerous a year ago, he could be some team’s bargain.) (4-19-24): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-6-prospects-draft-stock-falling-tvondre-sweat-keon-coleman
2024 NFL Draft: Top prospects who underperformed in 2023 (CB KALEN KING, PENN STATE (BIG BOARD RANK: 144) - Perhaps no player in this year’s draft class has seen their stock tumble more than Kalen King. After a dominant sophomore season in which he put up an elite 90.6 coverage grade opposite Joey Porter Jr, King was projected to be among the top cornerbacks in the country ahead of 2023. However, with Porter off to the NFL, King had to take on opposing teams’ top receivers, and as a result, his coverage grade plummeted from 90.6 to 55.7. The postseason process hasn’t been any kinder to King, as he got picked apart at the Senior Bowl and tested poorly at the NFL scouting combine. Once considered a potential top-10 selection, King currently projects as a day-three pick.) (3-19-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-top-prospects-underperformed-2023
Notes from 2024 UCLA and Penn State Pro Days: Edge rushers shine as Laiatu Latu leads the way (Cornerback Kalen King improved his 40 time from the Combine, timing as fast as 4.52 seconds, one-tenth faster than his mark from Indianapolis.) (3-15-24): https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/news-notes-2024-ucla-penn-state-pro-days-edge-rushers-shine-laiatu-latu-leads-way
Lions draft prospect of the day: Kalen King, CB, Penn State (3-11-24): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/10/lions-draft-prospect-of-the-day-kalen-king-cb-penn-state/
10 players whose 2024 NFL Draft stock is rising (Rome Odunze!) and 5 who are falling after the combine (Stock down: Penn State CB Kalen King: King was projected as a first round pick in way-too-early mock drafts as he settled into the CB1 role Joey Porter Jr. left behind at Penn State. Instead, his numbers fell as he struggled with the spotlight, leading to just two passes defensed in 2023 after 18 the year before. He could have buoyed himself with a solid performance at the combine. Instead, he showed off average traits that could slide him all the way to the final day of the 2024 NFL Draft.King’s instincts suggest he could be a steal for someone in the later rounds. But his straight line speed suggests he may not be the sideline corner we’d assumed after his breakthrough 2022.) (3-5-24): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-stock-watch-combine-rome-odunze-tvondre-sweat-amarius-mims
NFL combine winners, losers: Which players helped boost draft stock? (Losers - 1. Kalen King, CB, Penn State: King was the victim of some premature hype, as a standout sophomore season in 2022 earned him some consideration last spring and summer as a potential first-rounder. A shaky follow-up campaign, however, revealed some serious concerns for the 5-11, 191-pound cornerback. Most notably, his 4.61-second 40-yard dash reignited questions about whether he can turn be trusted to turn and run with receivers downfield. It's going to be difficult for King to land on Day 2 given how the last six months have gone for him.) (3-4-24): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2024/03/04/nfl-combine-winners-losers-draft-2024-xavier-worthy/72835664007/
Highs and Lows of Penn State's Week at the NFL Combine (For Worse - Kalen King: The cornerback had a rough testing week in Indianapolis. His RAS score (6.64) ranked in the bottom five among cornerbacks. His 40 time (4.61) was the second-slowest at the position. Robinson, at 63 pounds heavier, ran more than one-tenth of a second faster. Not the week King wanted. It will be interesting to watch what drills he performs at Penn State's upcoming Pro Day on March 15.) (3-3-24): https://www.si.com/college/pennstate/football/penn-state-football-highs-lows-penn-state-nittany-lions-2024-nfl-scouting-combine
Winners and Losers of Day 2 at the 2024 NFL Scouting Combine (Loser - Kalen King, Penn State: Penn State's Kalen King has had the opposite effect during this draft cycle to Mitchells. Many had King as a first-round pick heading into this offseason, but he struggled at the Senior Bowl and continued that into the Scouting Combine. He ran the second-slowest 40-yard dash of any corner (4.61), the fourth shortest broad jump (10'2"), and a middle-of-the-pack vertical (37.00") and 20-yard shuttle (4.16). I'd say King has an early day-three outlook at this moment, which is quite the fall from his round-one predictions earlier this offseason.) (3-2-24): https://atozsports.com/nfl-draft/nfl-2024-draft-scouting-combine-winners-losers-quinyon-mitchell-theo-johnson-tyler-owens/
NFL Combine 2024 winners & losers: Michael Penix, Xavier Worthy among those who impressed (Losers - Kalen King: The fast defensive backs had bad luck at the NFL Combine, but King had a combine to forget. The Penn State product had a down year in 2023, so he needed to test well to prove he could be a successful cornerback in the NFL. Instead, King logged a 4.61 in the 40-yard dash — the second-slowest among the cornerback prospects —and was a bit stiff in the on-field drills. That indicates that he will probably need to transition to safety at the NFL level, and that will almost certainly drop him down draft boards.) (3-2-24): https://www.sportingnews.com/us/nfl/news/nfl-combine-2024-winners-losers-michael-penix-xavier-worthy/9a63b978852faf8bad25e722
What Lions Can Learn from Day 2 of NFL Combine (King struggles - After a solid 2022 season, Kalen King entered his final college season with high expectations. Yet, his stock fell as he struggled to live up to the standards that were set for him at Penn State. With this in mind, the combine was a valuable opportunity for him to re-establish himself amongst the top half of players at his position. He struggled to do so Friday, though, running a 4.61 40-yard dash that placed him ahead of only one other cornerback. The Penn State product has been surpassed by several prospects, and now is viewed as a mid-round pick. King still has plenty of potential, but his Pro Day showing will now be pivotal to his draft stock.) (3-2-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-lions-learned-day-two-2024-combine
Stock up/down, Combine Day 2: Three CBs rising (Down - Kalen King: King could have used a strong combine showing to overcome an inconsistent junior season. Unfortunately, his 4.61 40 wasn’t what he needed and his jumps didn’t separate him from the pack (37-inch vertical, 10-foot-2 broad). King showed fair hands and adequate movement during drills, but it's tough for me to envision him going earlier than Day 3 of the draft.) (3-1-24): https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-scouting-combine-stock-up-stock-down-day-2-quinyon-mitchell-ben-sinnott-shine
Combine takeaways: DB grades, standouts (Other losers - Penn State CB Kalen King: The 37-inch vertical and 10-foot-2 in the broad are fine numbers for King to stand on during the rest of the pre-draft process. He won't have to do those at the Nittany Lions Pro Day. However, the 4.61-second 40 was a flop, especially with King weighing 191 pounds. He also had shorter arms than expected that weren't even 31 inches.) (3-1-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-combine-takeaways-grades-for-top-db-prospects-plus-other-winners-and-losers/
2024 NFL Combine Stock Report – Cornerbacks (Down - Kalen King, CB/S, Penn State: Kalen King needed a strong combine after a disappointing 2023 campaign. He didn’t deliver, running a 4.61 40. He also didn’t look very good in the drills. There’s some speculation that he may have to move to safety.) (3-1-24): https://walterfootball.com/combine2024stockCB.php
NFL Combine measurements: DB winners, losers (DB losers - Kalen King: King plays like a cornerback and can cover top wide receivers (see Marvin Harrison Jr. against Ohio State), but his 40-yard dash time may move him to safety. King clocked in at 4.61 seconds -- the second-slowest amongst the cornerbacks that ran. The technique is there, but the speed is not for his position. King was once viewed as a first-round pick, yet he fell into the second day based on the past few months. The combine didn't help, even if the tape shows King is a better player than given credit for.) (3-1-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-combine-results-measurements-db-winners-losers-as-tyler-owens-nate-wiggins-make-waves-in-workouts/
NFL Combine measurements: DB winners, losers (DB losers - Kalen King: King plays like a cornerback and can cover top wide receivers (see Marvin Harrison Jr. against Ohio State), but his 40-yard dash time may move him to safety. King clocked in at 4.61 seconds -- the second-slowest amongst the cornerbacks that ran. The technique is there, but the speed is not for his position. King was once viewed as a first-round pick, yet he fell into the second day based on the past few months. The combine didn't help, even if the tape shows King is a better player than given credit for.) (3-1-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-combine-results-measurements-db-winners-losers-as-tyler-owens-nate-wiggins-make-waves-in-workouts/
Overheard at NFL combine: Cheering on Michigan from afar, is space real? (Penn State DB Kalen King on whether he was surprised Michigan ran the ball so much vs. Penn State: “Initially, yeah. Because last year, coming off the game we played with them last year, they was running all game. But this year, we was watching film all week and we just had an idea they were a whole different team and they was going to be much more pass-heavy this year. It actually was the opposite. So initially, I was surprised.”) (2-29-24): https://www.mlive.com/sports/2024/02/overheard-at-nfl-combine-cheering-on-michigan-from-afar-is-space-real.html
The 10 NFL draft prospects with move to prove at 2024 scouting combine (Kalen King, CB, Penn State: Last season was a significant letdown for King, a preseason All-American who never fully recaptured his previous year's form in coverage. While Marvin Harrison Jr. has made plenty of cornerbacks look overmatched during his run at Ohio State, the wide receiver's dominant display against King – 11 catches for 162 yards and a touchdown – ignited concerns that the 5-11, 190-pound cornerback might be ill-suited to handle the NFL given the rash of bigger, more athletic opponents awaiting him. If he is to make it into Day 2 of the draft, King likely has to show he has the makeup to stick with receivers downfield in man coverage – and that likely starts with answering any questions about his speed.) (2-27-24): https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/draft/2024/02/27/nfl-draft-combine-most-prove-spencer-rattler-blake-corum/72754119007/
5 Players With Most To Gain At 2024 NFL Combine (KALEN KING, CB, PENN STATE: Rewind to the summer and Penn State's Kalen King was being discussed as a first-round prospect, perhaps even the top-ranked cornerback in the class. King did not meet expectations, failing to replicate his standout 2022. King recorded two passes defensed compared to 21 the previous campaign. King's struggles continued at the Senior Bowl. He was even hand-chosen by some receivers toward the conclusion of practice for one-on-one reps. King must remind evaluators of the potential he once carried at the NFL Combine.) (2-26-24): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/02/26/nfl-combine-2024-players-most-to-gain
2024 NFL Combine notes: 10 players who will need to boost their draft stock feat. Michael Penix Jr. (10. Kalen King, CB, Penn StateOhio State v Penn State - King was considered by many to be a top-45 pick entering the season, yet he had a dreadful campaign in 2023. He did himself no favors with a poor performance at the Senior Bowl, and he admitted as much. Interviews for King will be key, as teams will want to know why his game fell off a cliff last season.) (2-26-24): https://www.sportskeeda.com/nfl/2024-nfl-combine-notes-10-players-will-need-boost-draft-stock-feat-michael-penix-jr
2024 NFL combine prospect profile: Kalen King, Cornerback (2-25-24): https://nittanylionswire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-combine-prospect-profile-kalen-king-cornerback/
Detroit Lions cornerback targets at NFL scouting combine (Kalen King, Penn State: King is an interesting case. He looked like one of the better prospects in the draft class last season, but came back down to Earth in 2023. Some of that may have to do with the departure of Joey Porter Jr. to the Draft after last season. Still, there are intriguing tools that King has that project to make him successful at the next level. He has good feet while not possessing elite speed, yet can track and cover short routes with ease. If King can test well and put together good reps during his on-field drills, optimism will likely be restored surrounding a one-time top prospect. ) (2-19-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-nfl-combine-targets-cornerbacks
Penn State's players heading to the 2024 NFL combine (Kalen King, cornerback: One of the players with the most to prove at the combine from Penn State may be cornerback Kalen King. King was on the wrong end of some highlights from the East-West Shrine Bowl and scouts were quick to nitpick his coverage in one-on-one drills. At one point, King was discussed as a potential first-round pick, but he will have to work his way back up the big boards if that is to be the case this spring. This combine will be extremely important for King and his draft outlook.) (2-13-24): https://nittanylionswire.usatoday.com/lists/here-are-all-10-of-penn-states-2024-nfl-combine-invitees/
2024 NFL Draft Stock – Senior Bowl (Down - Kalen King, CB, Penn State: As we reported in the Senior Bowl practice recaps, King really struggled in coverage in Mobile. He was consistently beaten and giving up separation to the receivers in the one-on-ones. King struggled over all three days of practice, and NFL team sources shared that King also produced some bad tape from his Senior Bowl week. King’s time in Mobile to go along with his struggles during the 2023 season could push him to the last day of the 2024 NFL Draft.) (2-5-24): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024stock_22.php
2024 Senior Bowl takeaways: Evaluating the talented crop of QBs in attendance; risers and fallers from Day 2 (Drop: Penn State cornerback Kalen King - "The guys I was disappointed in the most on Day 2 was Kalen King. He didn't look as athletic as I thought he was on the tape. I really questioned his speed a couple times he got extended downfield. I didn't see that second gear where he could catch up after getting out of the turn when he was extended. It also looks like he was going through the motions, which I didn't see on his junior year tape... I just was expecting a lot more. He had a rough day today." "It feels like the predraft arc of Eli Ricks and Georgia cornerback Kelee Ringo, who both went to Philadelphia," Wilson said. "Hopefully Kalen King can bounce back because I really liked his tape coming into the year.") (1-31-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-senior-bowl-takeaways-evaluating-the-talented-crop-of-qbs-in-attendance-risers-and-fallers-from-day-2/
Senior Bowl Stock Up and Stock Down Day 2: Darius Robinson, Jackson Powers-Johnson Dominate on the Line (Stock Down - Kalen King, CB, Penn State: Kalen King had an up-and-down day on Tuesday, and Wednesday’s practice brought more issues for the Penn State CB, who’d been mocked in Round 1 at times earlier in the cycle. He lost 1-on-1 reps against Javon Baker and Luke McCaffrey without much resistance, and his lack of elite size-adjusted athleticism showed up at times when trailing vertically. In a strong CB class, King could start to get drowned out.) (1-31-24): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/senior-bowl-stock-up-stock-down-day-2-draft-2024/
2024 Senior Bowl: Tuesday’s National Team Practice Report (King really struggled on Tuesday, which wasn’t good coming off his disastrous 2023 season. In 2022, King was phenomenal for the Nittany Lions, but his play dropped off the cliff this past season, when he really struggled to prevent separation. At Senior Bowl, King looked like the 2023 version of himself, getting beaten constantly. He badly needs to turn things around on Wednesday and Thursday.) (1-30-24): https://walterfootball.com/seniorbowl2024practice.php
2024 NFL Draft: 5 biggest storylines ahead of the Senior Bowl | NFL Draft
With Senior Bowl week kicking off, Max Chadwick discusses the biggest NFL draft storylines (PROSPECTS WHO NEED A BIG WEEK - There are several prospects who need strong showings in Mobile this week in order to quell concerns about their game. King was a projected first-round pick entering this season after leading all FBS corners with a 93.3 PFF grade and 18.3 passer rating allowed in single-coverage in 2022. However, a 55.7 PFF coverage grade this past season has pushed him into the second round. Against a strong group of receivers at the Senior Bowl, King has a chance to re-enter the first-round conversation.) (1-30-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-5-biggest-storylines-ahead-of-the-senior-bow
Detroit Lions prospects to watch at 2024 Senior Bowl (Kalen King, CB, Penn State - The cornerback position is one of major need for the Lions ahead of the upcoming offseason. Cam Sutton underperformed his expectations in his first season, and the Lions shuffled through options at the second spot. As a result, a player like King could be in play for the Lions late in the first round. He was among the best at his position in college football last season, with a 90.6 coverage grade. But, his production dipped a bit in 2023. King is an interesting evaluation who has the potential to be a shutdown cornerback at the next level. He's worth keeping an eye on throughout the week to see how he performs against the top wide receiver competition.) (1-29-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/senior-bowl-prospects-interest-lions
Top CBs at the 2024 Senior Bowl: Quinyon Mitchell, Ennis Rakestraw Jr. To Prove They Are First-Round Talents (3. Kalen King, Penn State: Kalen King’s name isn’t spoken about with the top of this group like he has been in the past, but he still looks like a solid Day 2 option. King shows good ball tracking, instinctive route coverage, and the intelligence to be scheme versatile. At 5’11” and 185 pounds, however, he’s small for an NFL perimeter corner, and his lack of long speed and hip shifts show up on deep routes. There is a lot of wasted movement on tape that could be exposed in the pros.) (1-29-24): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cornerbacks-senior-bowl-draft-2024/
Senior Bowl 2024 DB Primer: What You Need To Know (Johnny Dixon & Kalen King, Penn State - Two alphas on the perimeter in Happy Valley, Dixon and King can flat-out play ball. They played off each other nicely this fall and I’m intrigued to see how they separate themselves in practices all week long. ) (1-26-24): https://thedraftnetwork.com/2024/01/26/senior-bowl-2024-dbs
2024 NFL Draft: College Football Game Recaps – Week 11 (The Nittany Lions have two cornerbacks who will be playing on Sundays in Johnny Dixon and Kalen King. Dixon has been very good this year, but King has really struggled. Thanks to Michigan staying committed to the ground game, Dixon and King were not thrown at very much. In the first half, King made a good open-field tackle downfield at the six-yard line. In the fourth quarter, King reacted late to a route, which led to him being out of position. King also ran into the chest of the receiver to draw a pass interference. Overall, this tape won’t hurt or help either defensive back significantly.) (11-12-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024recap_11.php
6 Prospects to Watch in Michigan-Penn State Showdown (CB Kalen King: With Cam Sutton signed in the offseason to a three-year deal, the Lions have their top option. However, they still face questions about the depth at cornerback. Jerry Jacobs currently holds the second corner role, with Emmanuel Moseley out for the season. King is a potential early-round pick. He's strong and holds his own in man coverage. Detroit elected to not add a piece in the secondary at the trade deadline. However, it could see fit to make a move at cornerback in the draft. King has the necessary length and strength to compete right away, but his skill will need fine-tuning as he progresses. With Jacobs and Sutton already in place, King could at the very least provide strong depth.) (11-11-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/prospects-to-watch-in-michigan-penn-state-showdown
For Penn State's Twins From Michigan, a Chance to Be Kings (11-9-23): https://www.si.com/college/pennstate/football/penn-state-football-brothers-kalen-kobe-king-michigan-game
Michigan Football Opponent Preview: Penn State Nittany Lions (CB Kalen King: The junior defensive back is the Nittany Lions' top corner and will more than likely shadow Roman Wilson on Saturday. King has 25 tackles and has broken up two passes on the season. While his stats may not jump off the page, there is a reason for it, not many teams throw his way.) (11-9-23): https://www.si.com/college/michigan/football/michigan-football-opponent-preview-penn-state-nittany-lions-drew-allar-kaytron-allen
Top 2024 NFL Draft Underclassmen We Could See in This Year’s All-Star Game Circuit (Kalen King, CB, Penn State: Similarly to Robinson, Kalen King will have the benefit of the NFL world descending upon Happy Valley for the Penn State Pro Day. However, King could make the wise move to go show his lockdown shills and bring his physical brand of football to an all-star game to impress those in attendance. King is a talented run defender and has flashed potential as a lockdown cornerback. It could be said that King has the most to gain at an all-star game of anyone else on this entire list.) (11-8-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-2024-nfl-draft-underclassmen-we-could-see-at-all-star-games/
Top CBs in the 2024 NFL Draft: Ranking Kool-Aid McKinstry, Kalen King, and Others (5. Kalen King, Penn State: When Joey Porter Jr. funneled targets to the other side of the field in 2022, Kalen King was often the beneficiary. He didn’t make it any easier on quarterbacks, racking up three interceptions and 15 pass deflections in a campaign that earned him national acclaim and an early spot in our top CB rankings for the 2024 NFL Draft. At 5’11”, 188 pounds, King is around average size, but what he lacks in mass, he makes up for with twitchy, fluid athleticism, superb ball skills, and relentless, unsuppressed anger in both coverage and support. With his combined playmaking ability, versatility, coverage mechanics, and tenacity, King carries a similar type of appeal that Witherspoon — who went fifth overall — had in the 2023 cycle.) (11-2-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cbs-nfl-draft-2024/
2024 NFL Draft Stock – Week 8 (Down - Kalen King, CB, Penn State: King did not play well against Ohio State and Marvin Harrison Jr., which likely brought the best competition Penn State will see all season. At the end of the first quarter, Harrison opened a good-sized cushion from King before trying to catch a slant, but the inaccurate pass went incomplete. In the second quarter, King was flagged for holding on Harrison when he was all over the star receiver. That holding penalty negated a strip-sack which Penn State had returned for a touchdown. It was a horrible and costly error on King’s part. A few plays later, King was all over Harrison again, drawing another flag, but Harrison fought through the contact to make the catch and set up first-and-goal. Harrison continued to generate separation from King in the second half. Team sources have said King’s tape has not been impressive this season and labelled his play as noticeably down from what he did in 2022. King had to grab at Harrison and looked panicked when trying to run with the star Ohio State receiver. Against the Buckeyes, King gave up receptions, allowed separation, drew penalties, and looked overwhelmed. King’s performance against Ohio State will hurt his draft grade and maybe dash his hopes of being a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.) (10-23-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024stock_08.php
2024 NFL Draft: College Football Game Recaps – Week 8 (There was the potential for a great draft matchup with the top wide receiver, Ohio State’s Marvin Harrison Jr., and potentially top cornerback prospect, Penn State’s Kalen King, for the 2024 NFL Draft going head-to-head. Overall, this game went poorly for King, while Harrison showed why he is a future No. 1 receiver in the NFL. On the opening drive, the Buckeyes moved Harrison around and King did not follow him. At the end of the first quarter, Harrison had a good-sized cushion from King to make a completion on a slant, but the pass was inaccurate and fell incomplete. In the second quarter, King was flagged for holding Harrison as he was all over the star receiver, and the penalty negated a strip-sack that was returned for a touchdown. It was a horrible and costly penalty on King’s part. A few plays later, King was all over Harrison again, drawing another penalty, but Harrison fought through the contact to make the catch and set up a first-and-goal. Harrison got open on a slant versus King in the third quarter, and Harrison followed that up a little later versus zone coverage by taking a shallow cross across the field and up the sideline for a gain of 27 yards. To put the game away for the Buckeyes, Harrison scored by running a crossing route against zone coverage. A Penn State defender got bumped, which let Harrison get wide open, and from there, he darted into the end zone. Harrison totaled 11 catches for 162 yards and a touchdown against the Nittany Lions. Even great players can have bad games, and Harrison had that a week ago when he dropped three passes against Purdue. However, his performance against Penn State showed that he is a legit top-five pick and an elite prospect. Harrison has mismatch size alongside the speed to get open and attack defense vertically. He has real burst out of his breaks and runs fabulous routes. Many big receivers don’t have Harrison’s agility and smooth route-running, but he is a rare specimen who obviously acquired great route-running from his Hall of Fame father. Harrison’s performance against the Nittany Lions will help him to end up as a high first-rounder next April in the 2024 NFL Draft. Conversely, King had an ugly game that will hurt his draft grade. NFL tea, sources had previously noted that King’s tape has not been impressive this season and his play is noticeably down from what he did in 2022. King had to grab Harrison and looked panicked when trying to run with the star receiver. King gave up receptions, allowed separation, drew penalties, and looked overwhelmed. This tape will hurt King’s draft grade and his hopes of being a first-round pick in the 2024 NFL Draft.) (10-22-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024recap_08.php
College Football Week 8: 2024 NFL Draft prospects to watch, including Marvin Harrison Jr. vs. Kalen King (WR MARVIN HARRISON JR., OHIO STATE VS. CB KALEN KING, PENN STATE: There will be plenty of future NFL draft talent in this contest, but the top matchup for us is a battle between two top-20 players on the PFF big board: wide receiver Marvin Harrison Jr. versus cornerback Kalen King. Harrison would have been WR1 if he was eligible to declare after his true sophomore season. For this draft cycle, he maintains that title. His season started off slow, but he has recorded more than 100 yards in four of his six games. He also has seven explosive plays in the past two weeks. He’ll face off against King, who isn’t having as good of a season in coverage as last year — sporting a 64.4 coverage grade in 2023 compared to a 90.6 mark in 2022 — but is still regarded as one of the top coverage players in this class.) (10-21-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-8-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-marvin-harrison-jr-kalen-king
Lions 2024 draft watch: 8 players to watch, including PSU CB Kalen King (Kalen King, CB, Penn State (Junior) 5-foot-11, 190 pounds - An excerpt from The Athletic’s Dane Brugler’s pre-season corner rankings ($): “Whether as a run defender or in coverage, King plays with a palpable level of competitive energy. He is a fluid and physical athlete with the explosiveness to drive on plays or match routes. While he might not have ideal height, King plays tougher than most players his size and does so without making excessive contact in coverage (zero penalties in 2022).” How he’d fit with the Lions: King, a Cass Tech high school graduate, didn’t garner as much attention as he deserved in 2022, working opposite Joey Porter Jr., but he has shined under the spotlight this season. This matchup against Ohio State will be his biggest test and the one game scouts will scrutinize the most. The Lions should be in the market for cornerbacks who can bring competition to the team, and with a solid game, King will have a chance to prove he deserves to be in the conversation.) (10-21-23): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/10/21/23921715/detroit-lions-2024-draft-watch-8-players-to-watch-including-psu-cb-kalen-king
6 Players Lions Should Watch in Week 8 (Penn State CB Kalen King: King and company have a tall task Saturday, taking on Ohio State in the day's marquee game. The battle of unbeaten will feature plenty of talent on both sides, but the matchup on the perimeter may be the most intriguing. The Nittany Lions' secondary will have to deal with the Buckeyes' talented array of wide receivers, headlined by first round prospects Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka. As a result, King's prospect status will be tested. Last season against the Buckeyes, he allowed five completions for 93 yards on seven total targets. He'll need a strong performance this season, as he's transitioned to being the team's top corner after Joey Porter Jr.'s departure to the NFL.) (10-21-23): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/6-players-lions-should-watch-in-week-8
Who Should the Ohio State Buckeyes Watch On Penn State's Defense in Week 8? (CB Kalen King: Last season, only two Penn State defenders recorded three or more interceptions. Junior Kalen King was one of them — making himself known everywhere on the field. This season, he hasn't scratched the score sheet in that column, but he does lead the Nittany Lions' cornerbacks in total tackles so far. When it comes to bigger matchups like Ohio State, King will need to step up even more, which shouldn't be an issue for him, especially with two full seasons under his belt. If the Buckeyes aren't careful, King could pose a serious threat to their offensive momentum and could scratch the interception column for the first time this season.) (10-19-23): https://www.si.com/college/ohiostate/football/ohio-state-buckeyes-penn-state-nittany-lions-preview-defensive-players-to-watch
College Football Week 4: 2024 NFL Draft prospects to watch, including Kool-Aid McKinstry (CB KALEN KING, PENN STATE VS. CB COOPER DEJEAN, IOWA: Though King and DeJean won’t line up against one another, Iowa versus Penn State features two of the best cornerbacks the 2024 NFL Draft class has to offer. On the Nittany Lions’ side, King is struggling more this year, earning a 59.4 coverage grade through three games. He recorded an elite 90.6 grade in that category last season. The biggest difference for King is the ball production; he had 16 forced incompletions last season but has tallied only one this year. As for DeJean, he was one of the top coverage players in college football last year and continues to be this year. He’s earned a 78.2 coverage grade this season with two forced incompletions and just 37 receiving yards allowed on 118 coverage snaps. If you’re into coverage play, you’ll have someone to pay attention to no matter who has the ball.) (9-23-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-college-football-week-4-2024-nfl-draft-prospects-to-watch-kool-aid-mckinstry-shedeur-sanders
NFL Draft Notes: College Football Game Recaps (Penn State cornerback Kalen King is in the running to be the top corner prospect for the 2024 NFL Draft, but team sources do not view him as an elite corner prospect like a Sauce Gardner, Jaycee Horn, Denzel Ward or Derek Stingley. They see King as having some skill-set limitations that make him more of a talent for the back half of Round 1. This tape versus Illinois will verify their opinion. King wasn’t bad, but he did not look elite or flawless. In the early going, King gave up separation deep down the field for what could have been a long touchdown, but the pass fell incomplete. Without knowing the play call though, you can’t say that it was King’s mistake. If it was a zone call, then the bust was on the deep safety, but if the Nittany Lions were in man, then King was culpable for the blown coverage. After that, King made a good open-field tackle after coming over in zone coverage, but later he seemed to get confused by a pair of crossing receivers, which allowed a wideout to get behind him for a gain of about 20 yards. King looks like a future NFL starter. He has good ball skills, is versatile in coverage, is gritty, and plays tough. However, he lacks the top speed, twitch, and size of recent top-10 corners. King should be a mid- to late first-rounder, but if he is the top corner in the class, a franchise with a hole at the position could take him a little higher in the 2024 NFL Draft.) (9-17-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024recap_03.php
CFB Week 3 Big Ten Preview: Minnesota Aims To Unseat Drake Maye (Williams against King is the more exciting WR-CB duel. Williams has uncanny change of direction and agility, both as a separator and as a RAC threat. But King is a twitchy, high-energy cover man who suffocates WRs looking for space — a key reason for his Round 1 hype.) (9-14-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb-week-3-big-ten-preview-2023/
CFB Week 2 2023: Draft Prospects Quinn Ewers, Marvin Harrison Jr., and Payton Wilson Stand Out (Kalen King remains an incredibly competitive player on the outside for the Nittany Lions. There was a time early on when he got beat initially, but he showed nice recovery speed and timing along the sideline to steer the receiver out of range.) (9-10-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/cfb-week-2-2023-draft-prospects/
2024 NFL Draft prospect primer: Ranking DBs (2. CB Kalen King (Penn State)
Height: 5-foot-11 | Weight: 191 pounds. Accolades/notable statistics: 2022 Third-Team All-Big Ten, 93.4 PFF coverage grade in single coverage (highest among draft-eligible cornerbacks, per PFF) - Rick Spielman's comp: Denzel Ward (Browns). "Technically, he has some things that need to be cleaned up. The slipping is a technical issue that can be corrected with coaching. I love his aggressiveness. That's hard to find in corners. He is an upper echelon corner as far as run support. Being out of control as a tackler in space can be corrected. You can't teach his aggression, twitchiness, and speed. I think he has a knack for stripping the football from the receiver. All of the flaws that you saw can all be fixed with coaching. You can't teach the grit and toughness that he has. He has the savvy and mentality that you look for in a corner." Ryan Wilson's comp: Janoris Jenkins (11-year NFL veteran) - "I think he plays plenty fast. Had three interceptions last year and is an absolute animal in run support. He slipped a little bit coming out his breaks on comeback routes, but may be that was a field conditions thing. I liked a lot of what he did in terms of his ability to cover. He plays with an edge, and he's a willing tackler as a corner. He can sometimes be a little out of control as a tackler coming downhill or after the catch. You like that he is there, but you could like him to be in more control. I think he has a chance to be drafted pretty high." Draft range: First or second round. Final thoughts - Kalen King's speed and physicality are off the charts. His elite athleticism allows him to consistently stick with receivers stride for stride. His 93.4 Pro Football Focus coverage grade in single coverage, the highest among draft-eligible cornerbacks, per PFF, tells you how strong his man coverage skills are. King's three interceptions also showcase strong awareness and ball skills at the catch point. His consistent motor and willingness to play the run is a bonus for cornerbacks. If King can clean up some timing and anticipation either this year or in the NFL, his football future will be incredibly bright.) (8-31-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-prospect-primer-next-stephon-gilmore-ranking-top-dbs-to-watch-plus-pro-comps-and-more/
2024 NFL Draft: Big Ten preseason superlatives (Best in coverage: CB Kalen King, Penn State. King had to share the stage with eventual Steelers second-round selection Joey Porter Jr. and senior Johnny Dixon last year but he is now the principal star. Opponents completed 45.0% of pass attempts in King's direction last season for 343 yards and 1 touchdown, according to TruMedia. The Detroit area talent posted three interceptions a year ago. Ohio State cornerback Denzel Burke should be a Top-100 pick comfortably but is not in the same vein as Denzel Ward or Marshon Lattimore. Iowa cornerback Cooper DeJean should be taken in a similar range as his teammate, cornerback Riley Moss (No. 83 overall), in the 2023 NFL Draft. Minnesota safety Tyler Nubin is a really instinctive prospect responsible for seven interceptions over the past two seasons.) (8-23-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-big-ten-preseason-superlatives-with-j-j-mccarthy-the-top-qb-ohio-state-well-represented/
Early 2024 NFL Draft cornerback rankings: Kool-Aid McKinstry is latest star Alabama DB (2. KALEN KING, PENN STATE: King is a high-ceiling cornerback with ideal athletic ability. His 90.6 raw coverage grade and 93.4 grade in single coverage were both the highest for draft-eligible cornerbacks. Those numbers came from his incredible quickness and explosiveness to mirror cornerbacks. When he gets in a footrace with receivers down the sideline, he rarely yields separation — sometimes he’ll even beat the receiver to where the ball is going. His 16 forced incompletions and three interceptions also point to great ball skills. King also plays with a ton of visible passion in the form of trash talk and celebration with his teammates (a big plus for defensive backs). An area of improvement for 2023 is his timing and placement of his hand strikes when in press coverage. He has NFL written all over him. ) (8-17-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-early-2024-nfl-draft-cornerback-rankings-kool-aid-mckinstry
2024 NFL draft: Preseason CB watch list and early rankings (2. Kalen King, Penn State: King has outstanding play strength and playmaking hands. If he learns to curb the hand usage down the field, he’s got potential to be an impact NFL starter.) (8-15-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-preseason-cb-watch-list-and-early-rankings/
Penn State Nittany Lions Preview: Roster, Prospects, Schedule, and More (Kalen King, CB - Past Fashanu, Kalen King is Penn State’s most likely Round 1 candidate remaining. Opposite second-round pick Joey Porter Jr., King racked up three interceptions and 15 pass deflections in a dominant 2022 campaign. King isn’t the same size threat Porter was, standing at just 5’11”, 191 pounds. But King is a high-energy, adaptable cover man with great closing burst and ball skills, and he’s also a very willing enforcer in run support.) (8-1-23): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/penn-state-nittany-lions-preview-2024-draft/
2024 NFL Draft top 25 watchlist: Williams at the top (15. Kalen King, CB, Penn State: Penn State has done a fantastic job of producing defensive backs in recent years. King was the primary defender on a targeted pass-catcher 60 times last season, according to TruMedia. Of those attempts, the Detroit area native forced 33 incompletions and allowed zero touchdowns. His twin brother, Kobe, is also a member of the Nittany Lions' program. ) (7-31-23): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-top-25-watchlist-caleb-williams-marvin-harrison-jr-lead-offensive-leaning-group/
Kalen King and Chop Robinson on becoming superstars for Penn State’s defense (7-13-23): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-kalen-king-chop-robinson-superstars-penn-state-defense
2024 NFL draft prospect watchlist (20 - CB Kalen King, Penn State: Aggressive, lockdown cornerback who takes over the lead role at Penn State.) (7-7-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-prospects-caleb-williams-marvin-harrison/
2024 NFL Draft: 10 draft-eligible cornerbacks to know (KALEN KING, PENN STATE: Joey Porter Jr. may have gone 32nd overall in the 2023 draft, but King was Penn State's true star in the secondary this past season. In single-coverage, the sophomore led all corners in the country with a 93.3 grade and 18.3 passer rating allowed. His 15 forced incompletions in single-coverage were tied for third among FBS corners as well.) (6-14-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-10-draft-eligible-cornerbacks-to-know
10 college football breakout candidates for the 2023 season (CB KALEN KING, PENN STATE: Most eyeballs may have been on Joey Porter Jr. in Penn State’s secondary in 2022, but King is poised to take over in Happy Valley in 2023. He started just one game in his true freshman season in 2021, but last season he started nine games. He recorded an elite 90.7 grade in coverage with 16 forced incompletions and three interceptions. He has the preseason hype to be a future first-round prospect to watch for whenever he declares for the NFL draft.) (5-18-23): https://www.pff.com/news/college-football-breakout-candidates-2023-season
2024 NFL Draft Watch List: 10 prospects to know at every defensive position (KALEN KING, PENN STATE: Joey Porter Jr. may have gone 32nd overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, but King was Penn State's true star in the secondary this past season. In single coverage, the sophomore led all college cornerbacks with a 93.3 grade and an 18.3 passer rating allowed. His 15 forced incompletions in single coverage tied for third among FBS cornerbacks, as well.) (5-10-23): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-watch-list-10-prospects-to-know-every-defensive-position
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