Jalon Kilgore

NFL Draft Profile: Jalon Kilgore

Position: Safety | School: South Carolina | Class: Junior

Height: 6'1" | Weight: 211 lbs | Archetype: Hybrid / Box

College Career Summary

Jalon Kilgore leaves South Carolina as one of the most decorated and consistent defensive backs in recent Gamecock history. A true "plug-and-play" talent, Kilgore started 33 games over three seasons, proving his durability and football IQ in the SEC. After a Freshman All-American season in 2023 (76 tackles), he exploded as a sophomore in 2024, tying for the SEC lead with 5 interceptions.

In 2025, Kilgore transitioned into a permanent leadership role, being voted a Team Captain and Co-MVP of the defense by his teammates. While his interception total dropped due to teams avoiding his area, his overall defensive impact remained elite. He finished his career with 178 total tackles, 8 interceptions, and 21 pass breakups, establishing himself as a "Reaper" safety capable of playing deep, in the slot, or in the box.

Highlight Career Stats:

• Games Played: 36 (33 Starts)

• Total Tackles: 178 (54 in 2025)

• Tackles For Loss (TFL): 4.5 (All in 2025)

• Interceptions: 8 (2 in 2025)

• Pass Breakups (PD): 21 (10 in 2025)

• Forced Fumbles: 1

2025 Season Game-by-Game Grades

Opponent	Stats	Grade	Key Performance Note
vs. Virginia Tech	3 Tkl	B	Controlled the backend; sound in gap assignments.
vs. Vanderbilt	6 Tkl	B+	High Motor. Relentless pursuit against the run.
@ Missouri	10 Tkl, 1 INT	A+	Star Impact. Double-digit tackles and a momentum pick.
vs. Kentucky	4 Tkl, 1 INT	A	Play Recognition. Baited the QB for a 45-yd return INT.
@ LSU	4 Tkl	B-	Weakness. Challenged by elite speed on a few deep sets.
vs. Oklahoma	6 Tkl	B+	Mental Toughness. Physicality stood out in a tough loss.
vs. Alabama	3 Tkl	B	Solid technique; erased the deep third against Tide speed.
@ Ole Miss	2 Tkl	C+	One of his quieter games; limited impact on a fast offense.
@ Texas A&M	8 Tkl	A-	Stamina. Played nearly every defensive snap in a close loss.
vs. Coastal Car.	1 Tkl	B	Limited work in a blowout; stayed assignment-sound.
vs. Clemson	7 Tkl	B+	Competitor. High-effort night in the rivalry finale.

Scouting Report

Strengths

• Elite Versatility: Kilgore is a true hybrid. He has logged significant snaps at Nickel, Free Safety, and Strong Safety. His 211-pound frame allows him to match up with NFL-sized tight ends.

• Ball Skills: A former high school wide receiver, Kilgore has natural hands. His 8 career interceptions are a testament to his ability to find the ball in the air.

• Run Support: He is arguably the best "downhill" safety in the class. He triggers quickly to the line of scrimmage and tackles with a Hit Power that disrupts ball carriers' momentum.

• Character & Leadership: Voted permanent captain as a junior. Coaches rave about his film study and "alpha" presence in the locker room.

Weaknesses

• Coverage Fluidity: While fast, he lacks elite "corner-like" hip fluidity. Twitchy slot receivers can occasionally win the initial break against him in 1v1 man coverage.

• Vertical Recovery: When beaten at the line or on a double move, he lacks the 4.3 recovery gear to close a 5-yard gap against elite vertical burners.

• Tackling Form: He plays with controlled aggression, but occasionally hunts for the "big hit" rather than wrapping up, leading to a few slipped tackles against larger SEC backs.

Scheme Fit: Ideal Strong Safety / Big Nickel in a Disguise-Heavy system (e.g., Patriots, Ravens, or Steelers).

NFL Comparison: Kyle Hamilton (Ravens) - Lite

Scout’s Final Word & Projection

Intangibles: 20/20 | Physical Tools: 18/20 | Attributes: 18/20 | Athleticism: 17/20 | IQ: 19/20

Final Grade: 92/100

Jalon Kilgore is a "coach’s dream." He provides the physical tools of a linebacker with the instincts of a centerfielder. His high floor makes him a safe Day 2 pick, but his ball production suggests Pro Bowl upside if placed in a system that allows him to "rob" the intermediate middle of the field. While he isn't a pure lockdown man-coverage corner, his value as a multi-alignment weapon is exactly what the modern NFL values in a safety.

Draft Projection: 2nd Round