2026 NFL Prospect Profile: South Carolina Safety Jalon Kilgore

South Carolina safety Jalon Kilgore has made a defining decision in his football career by declaring for the 2026 NFL Draft, forgoing his senior season to pursue professional aspirations. The versatile defensive back leaves Columbia with an impactful résumé that includes multiple All-SEC honors, big-play ball skills, and leadership experience.

A true junior, he started immediately after arriving on campus, posting 76 tackles as a freshman in 2023 and earning Freshman All-America and All-SEC honors, rare recognition for a first-year player in the challenging SEC. In 2024, Kilgore’s ball-hawking instincts came to the forefront. He tied for the SEC lead with five interceptions and added multiple pass breakups, showcasing his ability to make game-changing plays. Those turnovers weren’t just empty stats as several came in key moments that swung momentum and helped South Carolina secure wins.  

Throughout his time with the Gamecocks, Kilgore has played primarily from the nickel spot but has also demonstrated the range to operate as a traditional safety. His 6-foot-1, 211-pound frame allows him to match up physically with tight ends and big slot receivers, while his athleticism gives him the ability to cover ground in zone and run support responsibilities. 

Kilgore’s 2025 campaign continued to highlight his value as a dependable defender. He posted significant tackle numbers, added pass breakups, and made impactful plays despite South Carolina facing offensive struggles as a team. His leadership was recognized by teammates, who voted him a permanent captain after the season.  

While some evaluators view Kilgore’s projected draft position as a mid-round pick, his combination of experience, production in a power conference, and versatility could push him higher. He carries traits that appeal to schemes looking for safety who can play both deep and closer to the line of scrimmage, a growing demand in modern NFL defenses.  

Strengths

Ball Skills & Turnover Ability

Kilgore has shown a nose for the football, tying for the SEC lead in interceptions in 2024. He’s a former high school receiver and those hands translate well to his playmaking ability. 

Versatility

He has experience at nickel, free and strong safety, offering flexibility for multiple defensive roles. However, he may be near or at the top of this safety class for run support and playing down in the box. 

Size & Physicality

His 6-1, 211-lb frame allows him to engage in run support and match up with larger receivers.  

Experience & Leadership

A three-year starter who has been trusted with captaincy demonstrates character and football IQ.  

SEC Production

Consistent performance in one of college football’s toughest conferences adds credibility to his NFL projection.  

Weaknesses

Coverage Fluidity

While solid in zone, questions remain about his ability to stay with elite vertical threats in man coverage. Even though he has the speed, he doesn’t always close well and will need to improve this technique at the next level. 

Draft Projection Variability

NFL boards vary widely for Kilgore, with some ranking him outside the top 100 overall, indicating evaluators see upside and risk.  

Explosiveness vs. Matchup Speed

He’s shown strong instincts, but straight-line recovery speed has been a point of evaluation.  

Special Teams Role

Not widely projected as a core return or special teams standout at the next level.

Conclusion

Jalon Kilgore’s decision to enter the 2026 NFL Draft marks the culmination of a highly productive and impactful career at South Carolina. His ball production, leadership, and versatility make him a compelling safety prospect with the potential to contribute early at the next level.

Draft Nation currently projects Kilgore as a Day 2 selection in the 2026 NFL Draft, depending on pre-draft testing and evaluators’ valuation of his coverage versatility and playmaking traits. With continued growth in matchup coverage and consistency against elite competition, Kilgore has the tools to become a reliable NFL starter in the secondary.