Penn State Football: 5 questions Nittany Lions must answer this spring

4. Who will be Jaquan Brisker’s running mate? 

Safety Jaquan Brisker delivered the program some surprisingly good news when he announced he will be returning for one more season in 2021.

Brisker was invited to the Reese’s Senior Bowl and was an All-American according to Pro Football Focus, lending many to believe he was bound for the NFL. However, his running mate Lamont Wade is off for the league, leaving a hole in the secondary.

Wade struggled last season, especially in coverage, but was a leader on that defense and brought intangibles beyond just what met the eye. The most logical replacements for Wade are Ji’Ayir Brown and Jonathan Sutherland, who saw a lot of reps last season, however neither of them are true difference makers.

The wildcard may be freshman Enzo Jennings, a former four-star prospect out of Michigan in the 2020 class. Jennings played mostly cornerback in high school but has some safety experience so is a bit of a project at safety for coach Terry Smith, however his top end speed and athleticism should make him a good free safety who can play in space, something Penn State football desperately needs.