Gamecocks Star Nick Emmanwori Calls His Shot – Reveals the NFL QB He Wants to Pick Off Most
South Carolina football standout Nick Emmanwori is already setting his sights on the NFL, and he’s not shying away from a challenge. The Gamecocks’ star safety, widely projected as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, recently shared which quarterback he most wants to intercept when he reaches the next level.
In an interview with NFL Network, the 2024 First-Team All-American made his pick clear:
“Lamarvelous. A lot of dudes say guys like Pat Mahomes and other quarterbacks, but Lamar is kind of like the best quarterback to me. I have never seen a dude play quarterback and be that athletic and that efficient. I think he’s the best quarterback in the NFL right now. (If I pick him off) I think I’d beat him to the endzone.”
A Perfect Blend of Confidence and Respect
Emmanwori’s comments reflect both admiration for Lamar Jackson and confidence in his own ability. The Gamecocks will undoubtedly miss their defensive leader, who has been a cornerstone of South Carolina’s rise in the SEC.
The Greensboro, North Carolina native burst onto the scene with an outstanding freshman campaign, earning SEC All-Freshman Team honors. He continued to improve, setting career highs in interceptions and passes defended during his sophomore season. By his junior year, he cemented himself as South Carolina’s top defensive player, recording a career-high 88 tackles and four interceptions, two of which he returned for touchdowns. At 6’3, 220 pounds, he possesses the size, speed, and instincts that make him an ideal fit for today’s NFL.
Gamecocks Eyeing College Football Playoff Berth in 2025
While Emmanwori prepares for his NFL future, South Carolina football heads into the 2025 season with sky-high expectations. The Gamecocks are ranked No. 10 in ESPN’s way-too-early rankings, and head coach Shane Beamer has his sights set on a College Football Playoff berth after coming close last season.
The return of SEC Freshman of the Year LaNorris Sellers only raises the stakes, as South Carolina looks to break into the expanded 12-team playoff field in 2025.
Taking Inspiration from Lamar Jackson’s Journey
Emmanwori’s praise for Jackson goes beyond admiration—it highlights the Ravens quarterback’s remarkable career evolution. Many doubted Jackson’s ability to play quarterback at the next level, with some analysts even suggesting he switch positions ahead of the 2018 NFL Draft.
Now, the two-time MVP is coming off a season where he completed 66.7% of his passes for 4,172 yards, 41 touchdowns, and just four interceptions. His relentless work ethic and commitment to improving his weaknesses turned him into one of the league’s most dominant players.
If Nick Emmanwori and LaNorris Sellers follow a similar path, there’s no doubt they’ll carve out phenomenal careers at both the college and professional levels.
