Four Gamecocks Projected in Top 55 Picks of 2025 NFL Draft – Emmanwori Leads the Way
The South Carolina Gamecocks are making waves in the latest 2025 NFL Draft projections. According to College Football Network (CFN), four former Gamecocks are expected to be among the first 55 selections, showcasing the dominance of South Carolina’s 2024 defense.
Emmanwori Headlines as a First-Round Pick
Leading the pack is Nick Emmanwori, who CFN has slotted at No. 30 to the Buffalo Bills. The All-American safety has always been a hard-hitter in the run game, but his improvements in coverage have boosted his draft stock significantly.
CFN analyst Will Helms noted Emmanwori’s versatility, stating:
“While [Emmanwori] has always been a thumper in the back, unafraid of coming downhill to stop the run, he showcased elite ball skills in 2024.”
If selected in the first round, Emmanwori would become just the second Gamecock safety ever to be taken that high, joining Rick Sanford, another All-American defensive back.
TJ Sanders to the 49ers at No. 43
Up next is defensive lineman TJ Sanders, projected to land with the San Francisco 49ers at pick No. 43. The 49ers are looking to rebuild after a tough 2024 season, and adding an All-SEC talent like Sanders could be a key move.
Helms believes Sanders’ best football may be ahead of him, stating:
“[Sanders] could become a better pro than college player.”
Though some scouts have given Sanders first-round grades, he is widely expected to go in the second round.
Demetrius Knight’s Stock is Rising
Linebacker Demetrius Knight is also projected as a top-50 selection, with CFN mocking him at No. 46 to the Atlanta Falcons. With size, speed, and versatility, Knight could be an ideal fit for a Falcons defense that needs reinforcements.
Knight’s stock is climbing fast, with NFL Combine performance likely playing a major role. While some projections have him anywhere from the second to sixth round, Helms believes a strong showing in drills could solidify his Day 2 status.
Kyle Kennard to the Packers at No. 55
Rounding out South Carolina’s projected top picks is EDGE Kyle Kennard, who CFN sees going to the Green Bay Packers at No. 55. The Packers love versatile pass rushers, and Kennard, who won the Bronko Nagurski Trophy, fits their mold perfectly.
Former Gamecock Kingsley “JJ” Enagbare has already carved out a role in Green Bay, and Kennard could follow a similar path as a hybrid pass rusher.
More Gamecocks Could Hear Their Names Called
With several other Gamecocks expected to be drafted, South Carolina has a real shot at breaking its all-time record for most players selected in a single draft. The current record stands at seven picks (2009, 2013)—a number that could fall in April.
The 2025 NFL Draft takes place April 24-26 in Green Bay, Wisconsin. Fans can watch the action unfold on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network.
