Reed Scott 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.
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 football and basketball. In football, he was an all-state, all-region, all-county, and all-area selection and earned the Player of the Year award in 2016. He served as team captain for two seasons and finished his high school career with over 3,000 rushing yards, 1,000 receiving yards, 1,000 passing yards, and 46 total touchdowns. Blankenship was also part of the 2015 4A State Championship basketball team and earned all-area and all-county honors in basketball.
After high school, Blankenship received scholarship offers from several colleges including Middle Tennessee, Alabama A&M, Minnesota, and others. He chose to attend Middle Tennessee State University to continue his football career.
Path to American Football
Blankenship began his college football career at Middle Tennessee in 2017, playing in 13 games with nine starts as a true freshman. He recorded 68 tackles, a sack, and two interceptions, earning honorable mention all-conference and C-USA All-Freshman honors. In 2018, he led the team with 107 tackles and four interceptions, earning first-team all-conference honors. His performance included a notable 100-yard interception return for a touchdown against Old Dominion, which earned him national defensive player of the week recognition.
In 2019, Blankenship was a team captain but suffered a season-ending leg injury after seven games. Despite this, he was named second-team all-conference. He returned strong in 2020 and 2021, leading the team in tackles and earning first-team all-conference honors again in his senior year. He set the all-time tackles record at Middle Tennessee and was recognized for his leadership and academic achievements.
Reed Scott Blankenship Career
Early Career (2017–2021)
During his college career at Middle Tennessee, Blankenship developed into a standout safety known for his tackling ability and playmaking skills. He earned multiple all-conference honors and was a key defensive player for the Blue Raiders. His leadership as a team captain and his consistent performance made him a notable prospect for the NFL.
Philadelphia Eagles Breakthrough (2022–Present)
Reed Blankenship went undrafted in the 2022 NFL Draft but was signed by the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent. He secured a three-year contract and competed for a roster spot during training camp. Blankenship made the Eagles’ final roster and debuted in the regular season on October 9, 2022. He gradually earned more playing time, especially after injuries to starting safeties, and made his first career interception against the Green Bay Packers in November 2022.
In December 2022, Blankenship was named the starting strong safety and finished his rookie season with 34 tackles, two pass deflections, and one interception in ten games. He contributed significantly during the playoffs, helping the Eagles reach Super Bowl LVII, where they narrowly lost to the Kansas City Chiefs.
In 2023, Blankenship was named the starting free safety and posted career-high statistics including 113 tackles, 11 passes defended, and three interceptions over 15 games. He continued to demonstrate his value as a key defensive player for the Eagles.
In 2024, Blankenship signed a fully guaranteed contract extension and remained the starting free safety. He recorded multiple interceptions and tackles throughout the season and played a pivotal role in the Eagles’ defense. The team finished first in the NFC East and advanced to Super Bowl LIX, where Blankenship earned his first Super Bowl ring as the Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs.
Driving Style and Strengths
Blankenship is known for his strong tackling, ability to read offenses, and playmaking in the secondary. His versatility allows him to contribute both in coverage and run support. His football IQ and work ethic have earned him trust from coaches and teammates, making him a reliable presence in the Eagles’ defensive backfield.
Notable Events and Milestones
Key moments in Blankenship’s career include his first NFL interception against Aaron Rodgers, becoming a starter during his rookie season, and playing a significant role in the Eagles’ 2025 Super Bowl victory. His progression from undrafted free agent to Super Bowl champion highlights his determination and talent.
Reed Scott Blankenship Career Wins
Reed Blankenship has contributed to team successes including the Philadelphia Eagles’ NFC East division titles and their Super Bowl LIX championship in 2025. His individual performances have been integral to the Eagles’ defensive achievements during his tenure.
Philadelphia Eagles Highlights
Since joining the Eagles in 2022, Blankenship has steadily increased his impact on the field. His rookie season saw him earn a starting role and make key plays in the playoffs. In 2023 and 2024, he posted career highs in tackles and interceptions, solidifying his role as a defensive leader. His efforts culminated in the Eagles’ Super Bowl LIX victory, marking a major milestone in his professional career.
Other Wins & Performances
Prior to his NFL career, Blankenship earned multiple accolades in college including first-team All-C-USA honors and conference defensive player of the week awards. His collegiate achievements laid the foundation for his professional success.
Reed Scott Blankenship Family
Family Background and Racing Lineage
Details about Reed Blankenship’s family background are limited. He was born and raised in Alabama but no specific information about his parents or extended family is publicly available.
Personal Life
Reed Blankenship is married to Elsa Shafer, a kindergarten teacher. The couple married in July 2025 and announced they were expecting their first child later that year. Blankenship is also recognized for his camaraderie with teammate Cooper DeJean, with whom he forms a notable defensive back tandem for the Eagles.
2025 Season Performance
In the 2025 NFL season, Reed Blankenship continued as the Philadelphia Eagles’ starting free safety under defensive coordinator Vic Fangio. He played a key role in the Eagles’ defense, contributing interceptions, tackles, and pass deflections. The Eagles finished first in the NFC East with a 14–3 record and advanced through the playoffs with strong defensive performances.
Blankenship recorded significant tackles and forced fumbles in playoff games, helping the Eagles secure victories in the Wildcard, Divisional, and NFC Championship rounds. He started in Super Bowl LIX, where the Eagles defeated the Kansas City Chiefs 40–22, earning Blankenship his first Super Bowl ring and cementing his status as a rising defensive talent in the NFL.