Reed Blankenship is currently ranked 85th out of 88 safeties by Pro Football Focus. The analytics see a player in a steep decline. But sometimes, the most important value isn't found on a stat sheet. It's the quiet part... the part you don't see is what truly holds a defense together.
Defensive coordinator Vic Fangio said that part out loud. When asked to assess his safety's play, Fangio cut through the external noise. "It's been good,” Fangio stated. “He's been kind of a rock back there. He's got a rookie safety [Andrew Mukuba] next to him. His importance to the defense is more than just what you see from the playing part of it. He's the signal caller back there and keeps everybody calm."
This revelation is like a veteran shortstop settling a young, erratic pitcher on the mound. The box score might not show it. But apparently his presence prevents the whole infield from unraveling. Blankenship is the defensive quarterback, the on-field coach making the calls. But above all, getting that praise from Vic Fangio should mean a lot to Blankenship.
The two are known to be close. But Fangio is not one to shower people with praises. He hardly praised Nakobe Dean this week. And he straight up questioned Jalyx Hunt's role by praising Jalen Carter for the pick-six against Minnesota. Now, the Eagles' defensive backfield is incredibly young.
Rookie Andrew Mukuba is learning on the job. Cornerbacks Quinyon Mitchell and Cooper DeJean are in just their second years. This unit needs a leader more than it needs a highlight reel. So, how does a player become so crucial while his individual grades plummet?
The Reed Blankenship Effect
Fangio’s defense is a complex scheme. And it requires every player to be in the right place at the right time. With versatile players like DeJean toggling between positions, someone must direct the traffic. That responsibility falls squarely on Reed Blankenship. He ensures this young, talented group doesn’t just play fast but also plays smart.
His statistical dip is undeniable. He has zero interceptions this season after recording eight over his first three years. But his previous high PFF rankings of ninth and 18th prove his capability. This year’s role is simply different. He is the anchor, not the flashy playmaker. But he does need to get his mojo back.
Read more: Nick Sirianni keeps tight lid on mysterious locker room tradition after Eagles win
The Eagles are cruising into their bye week with a comfortable NFC East lead. Fangio rarely gushes, so his news conference bouquet felt like a reminder. Some impacts are felt, not just measured. And for the time being, Reed Blankenship’s value sits in the huddle, not the highlight reel.