Reed Blankenship has become one of the most underrated defensive players in the NFL in recent years. Known for his smart play and physical tackling, Blankenship rose from an undrafted rookie to a key starter in the secondary of the Philadelphia Eagles. His journey from a small-school standout to a Super Bowl-winning defender has made him a notable name among young NFL safeties.
This article covers Blankenship’s contract history, performance, age, and 40-yard dash time.
Reed Blankenship Eagles Contract
Blankenship initially joined the Philadelphia Eagles as an undrafted free agent in 2022 after playing college football at Middle Tennessee Blue Raiders. His rookie contract was a three-year deal worth around $2.57 million with a small signing bonus.
In April 2024, the Eagles rewarded his performance with a one-year contract extension through the 2025 season, worth about $3.935 million guaranteed with additional incentives.
By 2026, Blankenship entered free agency and reportedly signed a three-year, $24.75 million contract with the Houston Texans, including $16.5 million guaranteed.
The deal marked a massive rise in earnings for the former undrafted player who worked his way into a starting role.
Is Reed Blankenship Good?
Blankenship has earned a reputation as a reliable and intelligent safety. Coaches and analysts often praise his ability to read plays and organize the defense.
Key career highlights include:
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308 tackles
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23 passes defended
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9 interceptions
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56 games played in four seasons
During the Eagles’ strong defensive seasons, Blankenship served as a stabilizing presence in the secondary and frequently handled communication responsibilities. His consistent tackling and coverage awareness have helped him become a dependable starter.
Reed Blankenship Age and Background
Blankenship was born on March 2, 1999, in Athens, Alabama.
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Age: 26–27 (depending on season year)
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Height: 6 ft 1 in
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Weight: 203 lbs
Before the NFL, he was a standout player at Middle Tennessee, where he became the program’s all-time leader in tackles.
Reed Blankenship 40-Time
At his college Pro Day in 2022, Blankenship recorded a 4.55-second 40-yard dash.
Other notable athletic metrics included:
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Vertical jump: 33.5 inches
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Broad jump: 10 ft 1 in
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Three-cone drill: 7.09 seconds
While not the fastest safety prospect, his football IQ, tackling ability, and positioning have helped him succeed at the professional level.
Career Outlook
Blankenship’s career trajectory is a classic NFL success story. From going undrafted to becoming a starting safety and eventually landing a multi-million-dollar contract, he has proven that strong fundamentals and work ethic can translate into long-term success.
With his new contract and continued development, Blankenship is expected to remain a reliable defensive leader in the NFL secondary for years to come.
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