Live Feed: Clemson’s Rival Star Declares for NFL Draft
South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori has officially announced his plans for the 2025 NFL Draft. Speaking to David Cloninger of the Post and Courier following South Carolina’s narrow 21-17 loss to Illinois in the Citrus Bowl, Emmanwori confirmed that Tuesday’s game marked the end of his college football career.
“This was my last one in a South Carolina uniform,” the junior said, solidifying his intention to turn pro.
Emmanwori played only the first half of the Citrus Bowl, opting to sit out the second half, a decision he had planned in advance. This approach mirrors the strategy employed by Miami quarterback Cam Ward, who also sat out the latter part of the Hurricanes’ Pop-Tarts Bowl loss to Iowa State.
A decorated athlete, Emmanwori earned first-team All-American honors from multiple outlets in 2024. He leaves an impressive legacy at South Carolina, amassing 244 tackles, 17 pass breakups, six interceptions, and two touchdowns over his collegiate career. During the 2024 season alone, he recorded a team-leading 83 tackles and tied for second in the SEC with four interceptions.
ESPN NFL Draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. currently ranks Emmanwori as the second-best safety prospect in the 2025 draft class, trailing only Georgia’s Malaki Starks.
With his sights now set on the NFL, Emmanwori looks to carry his standout performances from South Carolina to the professional stage.