After three years at cornerback, junior Jordan Lucas appears to be making the move to safety, defensive coordinator Bob Shoop insinuated on Twitter Thursday.

Consistent performance by the safeties. @_JLucas9 establishing himself as the leader of the group. Keep grinding. Set high standards! #WeAre

— Bob Shoop (@Coach_ShoopPSU) February 17, 2015

The move doesn’t come as much of a surprise, as the Nittany Lions have a surplus of young talent at the cornerback position and a lot of question marks at safety with the departures of Adrian Amos and Ryan Keiser. It is expected that Trevor Williams will take one of the starting cornerback spots, with Christian Campbell and Grant Haley competing for the other spot. In addition, incoming recruits Garrett Taylor and John Reid could see some significant playing time at cornerback next season.

Lucas had 58 total tackles, nine pass deflections, and two sacks during the 2014 season.  He also has three career interceptions for the Nittany Lions and was an All Big-Ten Honorable Mention in 2013.

Coming out of high school Lucas was ranked as the No. 90 safety in the nation, so he won’t have to start from square one when learning the position. He’ll also provide a veteran presence to a young safety core that includes Marcus Allen and Troy Apke.

Photo: Mitchell Wilston/Onward State