2026 NFL Scouting Report: Javon Kilgore

Prospect Summary:

The Gamecocks have produced some quality NFL defensive backs in recent years, and Kilgore will keep that tradition alive in 2026 or 2027. Kilgore was an impact player immediately for the Gamecocks and was a freshman All-American in 2023 when he totaled 76 tackles with one forced fumble, one interception, and six passes broken up. As a sophomore, Kilgore improved in pass coverage, totaling 5 interceptions, 5 pass breakups, and 48 tackles. In 2025, Kilgore had 54 tackles with 10 passes broken up and two interceptions.

In pass coverage, Kilgore is a skilled zone corner who uses his speed to eat up a lot of ground. He has good instincts and vision to put him around the ball and disrupt passing lanes. His recognition and instincts put him around the ball and led to him being in position for his impressive interception total in 2024. Kilgore is dangerous in zone in the short to intermediate part of the field, and he has the athleticism to play some man coverage on slot receivers and tight ends. Kilgore is not a natural fit as a deep free safety. He is best as a nickel corner and strong safety.

In the ground game, Kilgore attacks the ball carrier and does not show any hesitancy to come downhill to make a tackle. Kilgore’s tackling is at a good starting point, as he does look to wrap up the legs and not go for a bone-rattling hit without wrapping up the ball carrier. Kilgore has solid size and strength to contribute to run defense in the NFL, but he needs to fix problems with missed tackles. He also has issues taking on and getting off blocks.

In the 2026 NFL Draft, Kilgore could be a day-two pick. Check my latest 2026 NFL Mock Draft to see where Kilgore is currently projected to go.