As the future in Philadelphia for free agent Reed Blankenship remains clouded, the need for new talent at safety could very well become crystal clear in the coming weeks.
While we've previously delved into Gamecock defensive back Brandon Cisse, another top performer within the South Carolina secondary now comes into focus, with safety Jalon Kilgore fast becoming someone to warrant extra attention as draft weekend looms closer. ESPN draft guru Mel Kiper recently honed in on Kilgore's skill set, including what stood out to him amid his efforts at the NFL combine.
"A combo safety/big nickel prospect, Kilgore is tough and versatile, and he brings a lot of very good physical traits. His 4.4-second 40 time tied for fifth in the safety group. And though his 37-inch vertical was in the middle of the pack, his 10-foot-10 broad jump paced the position this year. We shouldn't be surprised: Kilgore was the Georgia 2A long jump state champ in high school. And he showed off his strength, putting up 16 reps on the bench press."
How Jalon Kilgore can potentially replace Reed Blankenship on Eagles
Kiper chose to highlight Kilgore (6-foot-1, 210 lbs) as one of the 13 prospects who really caught his eye, and the versatility component of the Eatonton, Georgia native is rare. Equipped with the ability to blanket both tight ends and big slots, Kilgore (projected day two selection) could be a tantalizing chess piece for defensive coordinator Vic Fangio to utilize.
An All-SEC selection the past two seasons, Kilgore also claimed Freshman All-American honors. Having declared for the draft following his junior season, the team captain also brings plenty of leadership qualities into the equation.
Speaking of leaders, Blankenship has been a crucial one within the Philadelphia secondary. Free agency can often be unforgiving when it comes to loyalty and team chemistry, though.
Read more: Big Ten DB would give Eagles the size (and speed) they've waited years to select
From a pure speed and athleticism standpoint, the free agent does leave some attributes to be desired. If Blankenship bounces, a younger, quicker Kilgore could team up with second-year safety Andrew Mukuba to form a promising new safety duo.