He played his college football for the Alabama Crimson Tide, and signed as an undrafted free agent with the Panthers in 2013.

[1] As a junior in 2011, Lester started all 13 games at strong safety during the Crimson Tide's 2011 national championship season.

[2] His eight interceptions in his Sophomore year tied Harry Gilmer (1946) for the second most in a single season in Alabama school history.

[6] On September 17, 2013, Lester was elevated from the practice squad to the active roster after Charles Godfrey was lost for the season due to injury.

[7] He started at Strong Safety week 3 vs the New York Giants in his first NFL game, and Lester finished with 5 tackles, a pass deflection, a fumble recovery, and an interception.