Reed Blankenship's recommendation paved the way for former Eagles DB's return
Many characteristics go into being a true leader on a team, and Philadelphia Eagles safety Reed Blankenship is proving that time and time again.
Eagles head coach Nick Sirianni was speaking to the media on Sunday when he discussed the team bringing back safety Marcus Epps. Sirianni shared the story of how Blankenship made the recommendation for the team to sign Epps.
"One thing when we were talking about bringing Marcus back, Reed Blankenship would talk to us about how much Marcus helped him develop as a player and helped learn the scheme, so (Marcus Epps is) really sharp, and he's got great leadership qualities," Sirianni said via Eagles Wire. "t's awesome that that's the memory Reed has of Marcus, that he introduced him into this thing when he was a rookie and Marcus was in his fourth year, and he helped him grow.”
Blankenship was an undrafted rookie for the Eagles in 2022, while Epps was in his third year with the team. That would be Epps' first full season as a starter at safety, as he helped the Eagles make the Super Bowl.
More proof that Blankenship is more ready than ever to be a leader on the defense
There was so much veteran leadership that left the Eagles' defense in the offseason with Darius Slay, Brandon Graham, C.J. Gardner-Johnson, and Josh Sweat. It caused many in the media to worry about who would be able to step up, but Slay had told everyone to keep their eye on Blankenship.
So far, it has not been a disappointment with Blankenship. He's entering his fourth season in the NFL and has been a full-time starter for the last two. During his three-year career, Blankenship has racked up 225 tackles, 19 pass deflections, eight interceptions, two fumble recoveries, two tackles for loss, and one quarterback hit in 40 games.
This past week, he was named as one of the eight team captains for the Eagles. He and Zack Baun were the only defenders to earn the "C" on their uniforms.
Eagles fans can't be more excited to see Blankenship take a step up in his leadership as he's looking to prove to general manager Howie Roseman that he deserves a new contract with the team. With how he's playing, that might come sooner rather than later.
Patriots Shock: Insider Reveals Startling Update on Injured Rookie FB
The New England Patriots are sending shockwaves through their fanbase as an insider drops a major update on their injured rookie fullback, a player many expected to make an immediate impact this season. Sources close to the team suggest the situation is more serious than initially reported, leaving fans and analysts scrambling to understand the full implications for the Patriots’ backfield and offensive schemes.
The rookie, who burst onto the scene with impressive preseason performances, had been pegged as a key weapon in short-yardage and goal-line situations, and early concerns about his injury now have the organization weighing multiple contingency plans. Patriots coaching staff and medical teams are reportedly in constant discussions, attempting to balance the player’s long-term health with the team’s immediate needs.
While the team remains tight-lipped publicly, the insider’s revelation has stirred debate across NFL circles. Some analysts argue that the Patriots might rethink their offensive strategies, potentially leaning more on veteran backs and tight ends if the rookie’s recovery timeline extends further than expected. Others speculate that a quick return could make him a breakout star, one whose impact will define the Patriots’ early-season success.
Fans are now closely monitoring every practice report, social media update, and insider tip, with the rookie’s health becoming a flashpoint for both optimism and concern. With New England aiming to compete at the highest level, this update could reshape expectations and force rapid strategic adjustments.
The situation also raises questions about the Patriots’ depth and resilience, testing the team’s ability to adapt when key young talent faces setbacks. One thing is certain: all eyes are on the organization as they navigate this unexpected twist, with implications that could ripple through the season.
