Kalen King Bio
Kalen Daron King is an American professional football cornerback for the Arizona Cardinals of the National Football League (NFL). Born on January 28, 2003, in Detroit, Michigan, he grew up playing football and attended Cass Technical High School, becoming a four-star recruit. King played college football for the Penn State Nittany Lions, where he was known for his impressive skills on the field. He declared for the 2024 NFL draft and was selected in the seventh round, thus beginning his professional career.
Early Life and Background
Kalen Daron King was born and raised in Detroit, Michigan. He attended Cass Technical High School, where he excelled in football and garnered attention as a talented athlete. His performance on the field earned him a four-star recruit rating, which led to multiple scholarship offers from prominent college football programs including Michigan, Wisconsin, and Michigan State. Ultimately, he chose to play for the Penn State Nittany Lions, where he further developed his skills and showcased his potential as a cornerback.
Path to American Football
After committing to Penn State, Kalen King joined the team as an early enrollee in January 2021. During his freshman year, he made a significant impact with 23 tackles, one tackle for loss, five passes broken up, and one forced fumble over 13 games. His performance earned him a starting position at cornerback for the 2022 season, solidifying his reputation as a rising star in college football. King continued to impress during his time at Penn State, leading to his decision to declare for the 2024 NFL draft after the 2023 season.
Kalen King Career
Early Career (2021-2023)
Kalen King’s college career began with the Penn State Nittany Lions in 2021, where he quickly established himself as a key player in the defensive lineup. His notable achievements during this period included being named Third-team All-Big Ten in 2022 and Second-team All-Big Ten in 2023. These accolades highlighted his growth and contributions to the team, setting the stage for his transition to the professional level.
Breakthrough (2024-Present)
Kalen King was drafted by the Green Bay Packers in the seventh round with the 255th overall pick in the 2024 NFL draft. He signed his rookie contract on May 3, 2024, but faced challenges early in his professional career. After being released by the Packers on August 27, he was re-signed to the practice squad and later elevated to the gameday roster for Week 14. In January 2025, he signed a reserve/future contract with the Packers but was released again in August. On August 27, 2025, King was signed to the Carolina Panthers’ practice squad, where he was promoted to the active roster on November 29, although he was waived shortly after. He was re-signed to the Panthers’ practice squad before being signed by the Arizona Cardinals on December 23, 2025.
Notable Works and Milestones
Kalen King’s signature work includes his standout performances at Penn State, which earned him recognition as a formidable cornerback. His journey through the NFL has been marked by resilience and determination, as he navigated the challenges of transitioning from college football to the professional league.
Kalen King Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Kalen King has received notable nominations, including recognition as a Second-team All-Big Ten and Third-team All-Big Ten player during his college career.
Kalen King Awards Won
Kalen King has achieved significant milestones in his football career, including being named Second-team All-Big Ten in 2023 and Third-team All-Big Ten in 2022.
Kalen King Family
Kalen King has a twin brother, Kobe King, who also played football at Penn State as a linebacker and was drafted by the Minnesota Vikings in 2025. The brothers have supported each other’s athletic pursuits and share a strong bond through their football journeys.
Personal Life
While specific details about Kalen King’s personal life remain private, it is known that he has a close relationship with his twin brother, Kobe. The two have navigated their football careers together, showcasing their talents on the field and pursuing their dreams in the NFL.