Philly Leader

Eagles safety Reed Blankenship, who hails from the small town of Lester, Alabama, recently played a pivotal role in the Eagles' victory over the Saints by making a crucial interception. His teammates have dubbed him "the closer," as noted by Dallas Goedert after the game.

"I don't know, whatever you want to call me, I'm just out there to play football," Blankenship commented postgame. This marks his second interception this season, following one against the Packers in Week 1.

Blankenship's path to the NFL began when he joined the Eagles as an undrafted free agent in 2022. A former captain at Middle Tennessee State, he was one of only three UDFAs to secure a spot on the roster after Training Camp. Initially feeling like a newcomer again despite being a five-year starter in college, Blankenship was determined to prove himself.

"You go through years of football... When I got here, I was like the last person on the roster," he explained. "You have to love it... and put in the work."

His breakthrough came during Week 12 of his rookie year when C.J. Gardner-Johnson's injury opened up an opportunity for him. "The opportunities that come, you have to take advantage of them," said Blankenship during 2024 Training Camp.

He made headlines by intercepting Aaron Rodgers that season—the first time Rodgers had been intercepted by an undrafted rookie. By his second season, Blankenship secured a starting position and led his team with career highs in tackles and interceptions.

Despite his success on the field, Blankenship remains grounded and credits those who supported him along his journey. "I'm the type of guy who never forgets where he came from," he stated.

Growing up working on a farm taught him resilience and hard work—traits he believes have been beneficial in his football career. "It just builds character," Blankenship said about those early experiences.

In 2024, Blankenship has continued to perform strongly with two interceptions already this season. Defensive Coordinator Vic Fangio praised his abilities: "He's got good hands... so his ability to catch the ball is one thing."

As the Eagles prepare for their upcoming game against the Buccaneers, Blankenship aims to maintain his strong performance and contribute further to his team's success.

"We just believe in one another... at the end of the day you just count on everybody else," said Blankenship regarding team dynamics.