South Carolina’s Nick Emmanwori Skyrockets Up Draft Boards, Lands in First Round of Latest Mock
South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori is making waves in the NFL Draft conversation after a standout performance at the NFL Combine—and now, he’s projected as a first-round lock.
Previously considered a late first or early second-round pick, Emmanwori’s stock has soared, and CBS Sports’ latest mock draft has him landing with the Minnesota Vikings at No. 24 overall.
NFL analyst Garrett Podell explained why the Vikings would be an ideal fit for the Gamecock star:
“Harrison Smith is 36, and Cam Bynum is set to become a free agent. The Vikings need an injection of youth at the position, so why not the 2025 class’ combine standout? South Carolina safety Nick Emmanwori hit a perfect 10.0 out of 10.0 after he ran a 4.38 in the 40 while recording 43 inches in the vertical jump and 11-foot-6 in the broad jump with a stature of 6-foot-3, 220 pounds. He can be a fine successor to Smith.”
If Emmanwori hears his name called in the first round, he’ll become the fourth South Carolina player to be selected in Round 1 since 2020, joining an elite list of Xavier Legette, Jaycee Horn, and Javon Kinlaw.
His incredible athleticism and versatility have clearly caught the eyes of NFL scouts—now, it’s just a matter of waiting for Draft Night.
