Reed Blankenship Bio
Reed Scott Blankenship (born March 2, 1999) is an American professional football safety for the Philadelphia Eagles of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders and was signed by the Eagles as an undrafted free agent after the 2022 NFL draft. Blankenship has quickly established himself as a key player on the Eagles’ defense, contributing significantly to the team’s success since his arrival.
Early Life and Background
Reed Blankenship was born in Athens, Alabama, and grew up in Lester, Alabama. He attended West Limestone High School, where he excelled in both football and basketball. Blankenship was recognized as an all-state, all-region, all-county, and all-area selection in football, earning the Player of the Year award in 2016. He served as the team captain for two seasons, finishing his high school career with impressive statistics, including 3,192 rushing yards, 1,004 receiving yards, and 1,056 passing yards, totaling 46 touchdowns. Additionally, he was a member of the 2015 4A State Championship basketball team, showcasing his athletic versatility.
After graduating from high school, Blankenship received numerous scholarship offers from various colleges, including Middle Tennessee, Alabama A&M, and Minnesota, among others. He ultimately chose to attend Middle Tennessee State University, where he continued to develop his skills on the football field.
Path to American Football
At Middle Tennessee, Reed Blankenship made an immediate impact as a freshman, playing in 13 games and starting nine. He recorded 68 tackles, a sack, and two interceptions, earning honorable mention all-conference and C-USA All-Freshman honors. His performance set the stage for a successful college career.
In his sophomore year, Blankenship emerged as a standout player, leading the team with a career-high 107 tackles and four interceptions. His remarkable performance against Old Dominion, where he returned an interception for a touchdown, earned him national recognition and accolades as the Bronko Nagurski National Defensive Player of the Week. Despite suffering a season-ending injury in his junior year, he continued to demonstrate resilience and leadership, earning second-team all-conference honors.
Blankenship returned for his fifth year in 2021, where he excelled as the team’s leading tackler with 110 stops and received multiple accolades, including first-team all-conference and the Middle Tennessee Defensive Ironman of the Year. His impressive college career culminated in his entry into the NFL draft.
Reed Blankenship Career
Early Career (2022)
Reed Blankenship went undrafted in the 2022 NFL draft but was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles on May 5, 2022, to a three-year, $2.56 million rookie contract. Throughout training camp, he competed for a roster spot as a backup safety and special teams player. His hard work paid off when he made the Eagles’ final roster, becoming one of three undrafted players to do so.
Blankenship made his professional debut on October 9, 2022, against the Arizona Cardinals, recording two tackles. He gradually earned more playing time, especially after injuries to other players. By December 2022, he was named the starting strong safety, showcasing his ability to step up in critical moments.
Breakthrough (2023-2025)
In the 2023 season, Blankenship solidified his role as a starting safety for the Eagles. He started in the season opener against the New England Patriots, where he recorded a season-high 12 combined tackles. Despite facing injuries, he continued to perform at a high level, finishing the season with impressive statistics, including 113 combined tackles, 11 passes defended, and three interceptions.
The 2024 season saw Blankenship further elevate his game, as he signed a one-year, $3.93 million contract extension with the Eagles. He continued to be a key player in the Eagles’ defense, achieving a career-high four interceptions and contributing significantly to the team’s success. His performance in the postseason was notable, as he recorded 11 combined tackles and a forced fumble in the NFC Wildcard Game.
On February 9, 2025, Blankenship played in Super Bowl LIX, where he helped the Eagles secure a 40–22 victory against the Kansas City Chiefs, earning his first Super Bowl ring.
Notable Works and Milestones
Reed Blankenship’s signature work includes his standout performance during the 2024 NFL season, where he achieved a career-high in interceptions and was instrumental in the Eagles’ playoff run. His contributions have not only earned him recognition but also solidified his position as a vital member of the Eagles’ defense.
Reed Blankenship Award Nominations
Throughout his career, Reed Blankenship has received several nominations and accolades, including first-team All-C-USA honors in 2021 and recognition as a Super Bowl champion in 2025.
Reed Blankenship Awards Won
Reed Blankenship has won notable awards, including the Super Bowl champion title in 2025 and multiple all-conference honors during his college career.
Reed Blankenship Family
Reed Blankenship is married to Elsa Shafer, a kindergarten teacher. The couple announced in November 2025 that they are expecting their first child, marking an exciting new chapter in their lives.
Personal Life
Throughout the 2024 season, Reed Blankenship and rookie cornerback Cooper DeJean gained attention as a duo known as “Exciting Whites,” due to their unique status as two of the few white defensive backs in the NFL. Their ability to make impactful plays together has resonated with fans and players alike.
