Kalen King NFL Draft Profile
Kalen King Scouting Report- Penn State Cornerback
2024 NFL Draft Measurements
5’11” 190 lbs.
Kalen King 40 time: 4.39 (estimate)
Strengths
Exceptional Speed
Kalen King possesses elite speed, making him a true asset in coverage and allowing him to recover quickly on plays. His acceleration and top-end speed give him the ability to stick with receivers downfield.
Versatile Coverage Skills
King excels in both man-to-man and zone coverage. His agility and quick change of direction make him effective in mirroring routes, while his understanding of zone concepts enables him to read the quarterback and make plays on the ball.
Run Defense Prowess
King’s commitment to run defense is a standout strength. He is a sure tackler in the open field and demonstrates the willingness to provide run support on the perimeter, showcasing physicality and shedding blocks effectively.
Agility and Quickness
King’s agility and quickness are evident in his ability to make sudden movements and adjustments on the field. His nimble footwork allows him to stick with agile receivers and navigate through traffic in run support.
Weaknesses
Tendency to Bite on Play Action
One area of concern is King’s occasional tendency to bite on play action. Improving his recognition of run/pass keys and maintaining discipline in coverage will be crucial to avoid being manipulated by opposing quarterbacks.
Slower Reactions
King may exhibit slower reactions in certain situations, particularly when facing quick changes of direction or sudden movements by receivers. Enhancing his reaction time through film study and increased anticipation will help him become more proactive in coverage.
Final Thoughts on Kalen King Scouting Report
Kalen King enters the 2024 NFL Draft as a cornerback with a compelling skill set, highlighted by exceptional speed, coverage versatility, and solid run defense. His ability to excel in both man and zone coverage, coupled with his agility and quickness, positions him as a well-rounded defensive back prospect.
While King’s occasional susceptibility to play action and slower reactions are areas for improvement, they represent aspects of his game that can be refined through coaching and experience. His natural athleticism, combined with his willingness to contribute in run defense, makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams in need of a dynamic cornerback.
As King continues to develop and refines his techniques, he has the potential to become a valuable asset in an NFL secondary, contributing as both a coverage specialist and a reliable run defender. Teams will likely be drawn to his speed and versatility as they evaluate his fit within their defensive schemes.
Kalen King NFL Comparison
Looks like Miami Dolphins cornerback Kader Kohou.
Kalen King Draft Stock
King’s draft stock took a hit this year, he was probably a first-round pick going into the year, but after this season I would expect him to go in the mid-second round. He still has a lot of potential, but he needs to put it all together at the next level. I’d expect him to be taken close to TJ Tampa.
