Former South Carolina standout Nick Emmanwori is proving that his college dominance was just the beginning.
The former Gamecock defensive back, who turned heads as one of the most impressive players in the nation during his junior season in 2024, and later wowed scouts with a stellar performance at the 2025 NFL Combine, is already making a major impact at the next level.
Selected in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks, Emmanwori has wasted no time showing why he was one of South Carolina’s most promising talents — and now, one of the league’s top rookies.
According to Pro Football Focus, Emmanwori currently ranks as the highest-rated safety in the entire NFL with a PFF grade of 84.8. The rookie’s balance of instincts and athleticism has been on full display, as he’s contributed both at safety and slot corner for Seattle.
His performance grades are elite across the board — 83.5 against the run, 81.1 in coverage, and 71.1 as a blitzer.
While an early-season ankle sprain caused him to miss a few games, Emmanwori has maximized every snap he’s played. When healthy, he’s been nothing short of outstanding.
His breakout game came this past Sunday in the Seahawks’ 20-12 road victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, where he totaled nine tackles (six solo) — more than any player on either team. He also notched a tackle for loss and pressured Jaguars quarterback Trevor Lawrence, helping force a crucial punt.
Emmanwori’s next test — and biggest stage yet — comes Monday night, October 20, when the Seahawks face the Houston Texans on ESPN’s Monday Night Football.
The Irmo, South Carolina native continues to embody the grit and playmaking that made him a Gamecock fan favorite — and now, one of the NFL’s brightest young defensive stars.
