TCU safety Jordan Lester making the most of his opportunity in spring camp
TCU has gotten through spring camp relatively healthy, but the injury bug has hit the secondary hard during spring with expected starters Bud Clark and Avery Helm missing time.
It’s not all bad news, head coach Sonny Dykes told the media on Monday, April 14, as none of the injuries are expected to keep the players out of any games in the fall. The injuries also opened up the door for younger players like Jordan Lester to take valuable reps during the spring.
Lester has been filling in for Clark the last two weeks of camp and has been solid. Lester was a three-star recruit out of Mesquite Horn in the Class of 2023.
Now a redshirt sophomore, Lester is having the best stretch of practices he’s had since enrolling at TCU.
“I’m feeling a lot more comfortable this go around,” Lester said on Monday. “My coaches are giving me a lot more reps, giving me some trust. I’m just trying to compete everyday and get a little bit better for my teammates.”
Lester was able to build some confidence last season as he ended the season on a high note with an interception in the Horned Frogs’ win over Louisiana in the New Mexico Bowl.
That’s carried over to the spring where Lester has produced some highlight plays. During a practice on April 4, Lester deflected a pass into the air that was eventually picked off by Namdi Obiazor.
During Saturday’s open practice, Lester soared into the air over a receiver and brought down an impressive interception on the sideline. He’s also looked more much more comfortable guarding receivers during 1-on-1s and 7-on-7.
Much of that growth Lester attributes to watching Clark the last two seasons. Now he’s been able to use everything he’s learned from Clark on the field.
“It’s been a big opportunity for me,” Lester said. “When you got a guy like Bud, he’s a great guy. I’ve been asking him questions, getting information from him and just being behind him all these years has helped me in preparing on the football field.”
Like many players on the defense, Lester is also a lot more comfortable in defensive coordinator Andy Avalos’ scheme as he heads into his second season.
There’s a lot more responsibilities for the safeties under Avalos, but it’s a system that fits Lester well and is starting to bring out the best in his game.
“I’m a lot more comfortable than my previous year,” Lester said. “Going into this year I just locked in on the corrections and the notes from last year. I feel like I’ve grown with the communication aspect. Getting in the calls and relaying that to my teammates to make sure we’re all on the same page and can play better as one unit.”
Another thing that has helped Lester have a breakout spring is the arrival of new safeties coach Tre Watson. Watson has a very hands-on approach and its a style that Lester has enjoyed learning under so far.
“Coach Watson is great man, I’ve learned a lot so far,” Lester said. “He’s only been here a few months and I feel like I already got way better in my progressions and my technique. He’s helped me a lot already with becoming a better safety.”
When Clark returns in the summer he’ll be the starter headed into 2025, but Lester’s performance during the spring is one that should build confidence for the future when it’s his time to fill Clark’s role.
