USC All-American safety Jaylan Foster adds NFL mini-camp opportunities, report says
Jaylan Foster’s unique path to professional football has added a new chapter.
The one-time Gardner Webb transfer and former South Carolina walk-on will take part in rookie mini-camp Philadelphia Eagles and Jacksonville Jaguars, On3Sports’ Matt Zenitz reported Monday night, citing a source. A mini-camp typically amounts to a three-day tryout.
“He put himself on the NFL map with his senior year, specifically that Georgia tape early in the season,” The Athletic’s Dane Brugler told The State. “But his inconsistencies later in the season, specifically in coverage, stood out on film. For an undersized safety (5-10, 185 pounds), his athleticism is only average and his testing backed that up.”
Foster finished his final season in Columbia as a stalwart for Clayton White’s defense. He led the team in tackles (97) and was tied for the national lead with five interceptions in the regular season. Foster was named a Walter Camp second team All-American for his efforts.
The Duncan native was not invited to the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis in February, but shined at South Carolina’s Pro Day. He was reportedly clocked around a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and looked fluid in coverage drills.
Foster spent one season at Gardner Webb before transferring to USC. He was largely relegated to a special teams and backup defensive back role before bursting onto the scene in 2021. Foster was put on scholarship before the 2020 season.
He recorded double-digit tackles in games against Kentucky, Troy and Tennessee in consecutive weeks. Foster also notched a pair of forced fumbles in the Troy game and recorded two interceptions at Georgia in Week 3.
In addition to his All-American recognition, he was named a first team All-SEC performer in 2021 by the league’s coaches, the Associated Press, USA Today and Phil Steele.
Running back ZaQuandre White and defensive lineman Jabari Ellis signed undrafted free agent deals with the Miami Dolphins and New York Giants, respectively.
Defensive back Carlins Platel will get a mini-camp tryout with the Eagles, with kicker Parker White participating in rookie mini-camps with the Kansas City Chiefs and Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
