Blake Gillikin, born on January 21, 1998, in Atlanta, Georgia, is an American football punter currently affiliated with the Arizona Cardinals in the National Football League (NFL).
Blake attended The Westminster Schools in Atlanta and played college football at Penn State from 2016 to 2019.
With a net worth totaling $1 million. Gillikin inked a 3-year deal with the New Orleans Saints worth $2,286,500, featuring a $1,500 signing bonus, $1,500 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $762,167.
Subsequently, in 2023, he secured a 1-year contract with the Saints valued at $1,240,000, encompassing a $300,000 signing bonus, $600,000 guaranteed, and an average annual salary of $1,240,000.
Later the same year, he signed a 1-year contract with the Arizona Cardinals for $940,000, with an average annual salary matching the contract value.
Gilikin's financial standing reflects both his professional achievements and the competitive landscape of the National Football League.
Blake Gillikin completed his high school education at The Westminster Schools in Atlanta, Georgia, actively participating in soccer, basketball, and football.
Subsequently, he continued his academic and athletic journey at Penn State University, serving as a punter for the Penn State Nittany Lions. In 2020, he graduated with a degree in Kinesiology.
Gillikin's remarkable academic achievements include being a two-time first-team Academic All-American during his college career. Renowned for his leadership and punting prowess, he earned recognition as a Goodyear Cotton Bowl Scholar-Athlete.
During his time at Penn State University, Blake Gillikin's college stats include 239 punts for a total of 10,283 yards, averaging 43.0 yards per punt.
Blake's yearly performances ranged from 42.2 to 44.0 yards per punt, and alongside his on-field achievements, he was honored as a two-time first-team Academic All-American.
After graduating from Penn State, Gillikin joined the New Orleans Saints as an undrafted free agent in 2020. He played for the Saints in the 2021 and 2022 seasons.
Following the 2022 season, he became a free agent, re-signing with the Saints on March 16, 2023, but was waived on August 29, 2023, after losing the punting battle to Lou Hedley. On October 3, 2023, Gillikin signed with the Arizona Cardinals.
During his journey, Gillikin actively participated in training programs like One On One Kicking camps to enhance his skills and physical fitness. He also shared his experiences and insights on social media platforms such as Twitter.
In Blake Gillikin's current NFL performance, he recorded the following stats:
- In 2021, he executed 83 punts for 3,956 yards, averaging 47.7 yards per punt.
- During 2022, he contributed 77 punts for 3,571 yards, maintaining an average of 46.4 yards per punt.
- In 2023, he launched 40 punts for 2,003 yards, achieving an average of 50.1 yards per punt.
In summary, Gillikin has amassed 208 punts for a total of 9,955 yards in his professional career, with an average punt distance of 47.9 yards.
Additionally, he successfully placed the ball inside the 20-yard line 13 times throughout his career.
Throughout his professional career, Blake Gillikin encountered injuries. In September 2020, the New Orleans Saints placed him on injured reserve, citing an unspecified injury.
Furthermore, in December 2023, he was restricted in practice sessions due to a back injury.
Blake Gillikin is romantically involved with Alexandra Fleece. Alexandra, having a sports-oriented background from high school to college, shares Gillikin's athletic interests.
Their relationship, characterized by warmth and affection, has spanned nearly three years. Despite residing in different cities, with Alexandra based in Baltimore and Gillikin in New Orleans, the couple remains open about their connection, frequently sharing photos of each other on various platforms.
Blake Gillikin, born on January 21, 1998, in Atlanta, Georgia, USA, is the son of Taryn and Walt Gillikin. His family includes a twin brother, Tyler Gillikin, who shares his passion for football and is a professional player.
Tyler specialized as a snapper during his time at Northwestern University, contributing to the athletic pursuits that run in the Gillikin family. The twins' shared love for football has solidified their bond both on and off the field.
Blake Gillikin has been honored with awards that celebrate his achievements. While at Penn State University, he earned the distinction of being a two-time first-team Academic All-American.
Furthermore, in 2023, he received the NFC Special Teams Player of the Month recognition.
These accolades not only underscore his excellence in academics but also spotlight his outstanding performance in professional football, emphasizing his well-rounded success both on and off the field.