As the Philadelphia Eagles prepare to take on the New York Giants in the Divisional Round of the playoffs, they find themselves without the presence of Avonte Maddox due to a toe injury. But the team has risen to the challenge and put their faith in a surprising source: rookie safety Reed Blankenship.

The 23-year-old Blankenship has seen action in 10 games this season, with 4 starts and 291 snaps. He's proven himself to be a dependable asset, which is why the Eagles chose to move C.J. Gardner-Johnson into the slot on nickel downs, a plan they tested in the last week of regular season play.

Blankenship is aware of the challenge ahead. “I’ve been put in this position because they trust me,” he said this week. “And I’m not going to screw it up.” Defensive coordinator Jonathan Gannon has faith in the entire secondary, saying, “I’ve got faith in that entire room.”

Though Maddox' absence is felt, Blankenship's emergence helps the Eagles feel secure and ready to face the Giants. The team has put their trust in the rookie, and Blankenship strives to prove them right and make the most of this opportunity. All eyes are on him and the secondary as the playoffs kick off.