NoCal DB has the goods

Don't be surprised if strong safety/linebacker Lucas King (6-3, 205, 4.55) from Berkeley, Calif., becomes highly sought after recruit after a couple of games during his senior season in two months.

The scouting reporting on King is he's very athletic and brings a lot of versatility to the table. He started his high school career at quarterback, but has a found a home on the defensive side of the ball playing a hybrid safety/linebacker/rover. He could end up as a strong safety or Will linebacker on the collegiate level.

King is very aggressive, is a tremendous hitter and is outstanding in coverage. Berkeley head coach Alonzo Carter told Rivals.com that King reminds him of NFL great safety, John Lynch, now with Denver.

As a matter of fact it was that reason that King agreed to switch to defense. Now he is just beginning to hit his stride as a football player. He has a high ceiling and his best days are ahead of him.

Even though King was playing a new position and was hurt for a couple of games he still earned all-league honors as a junior after racking up 60-plus tackles, three forced fumbles, two fumble recoveries and one pick.

In the weight room, he currently benches 255, squats 450 and has recorded a 33-inch vertical.

Carter is pretty sure that his talented safety has the goods to be successful on the next level.

"I really think Lucas has a lot of upside," Carter said. "He has a real solid body. He could get even bigger and faster. He's a natural."

On the recruiting trail colleges such San Diego State, UNLV, Utah, Arizona State, Cal, Oregon and Washington are showing him recruiting interest.

"A lot of colleges, Oregon specifically, want to see more video and they want me to get bigger in the weight room," King said. "Oregon is recruiting me as a linebacker."

"Most of the schools are recruiting me as a rover, linebacker or safety, except Utah," King said. "Utah likes me as a middle linebacker."

What is King looking for in a college?

"Location may have an effect, I would like to play close to home," King said. "Academics will be the most important. That's the reason I'm going to college."

"I can't count on the NFL," King said. "If I'm good enough, fine, but will be a college education that will help me get a good job after football."