Penn State Football: projecting the depth chart for the defense in 2022

Penn State Football secondary

The Nittany Lions look to replace Jaquan Brisker and Tariq Castro-Fields from last year’s defensive backfield, which seems like no easy task. However, Penn State has numerous young and talented defensive backs that can step up, especially at cornerback.

In all likelihood, Kalen King will start alongside Joey Porter Jr. at cornerback. The sophomore turned heads as an early enrollee in 2021, earning himself some meaningful playing time right away last season. He made some freshman mistakes, but it is clear that he has a very bright future.

Daequan Hardy – who was excellent as Penn State’s STAR last year – also returns, and will be in that role again this season.

The shoes that need to be filled at safety are a little bigger than at corner, and either Keaton Ellis or Jaylen Reed will be called upon for that task. Ellis started both the Outback Bowl and the spring scrimmage, so the State College native is likely the favorite to start at safety ahead of the younger Reed.

Lastly, following a great spring, expect redshirt freshman Zakee Wheatley to contribute at safety as well.

Projected Depth Chart

Cornerback

1. Joey Porter Jr.

2. Marquis Wilson

Safety

1. Ji’Ayir Brown

2. Zakee Wheatley

Safety

1. Keaton Ellis

2. Jaylen Reed

Cornerback

1. Kalen King

2. Johnny Dixon

STAR/nickel cornerback

1. Daequan Hardy