Nick Emmanwori, a standout safety for the South Carolina Gamecocks, has declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, opting to forgo his senior season. Ranked as the second overall safety and one of the top 50 players by CBS Sports, Emmanwori’s decision adds another significant name to the draft class.
A three-star recruit from Irmo, South Carolina, Emmanwori joined the Gamecocks in 2022. Despite his modest recruiting profile, the 6-foot-3, 227-pound safety quickly exceeded expectations, earning Freshman All-American honors by the end of his debut season. His physicality and instincts on the field set him apart early in his collegiate career.
Over three seasons with South Carolina, Emmanwori became a cornerstone of the team’s defense. He played in 37 games, amassing an impressive 244 total tackles, including four tackles for loss, and recorded six interceptions. Notably, two of those interceptions were returned for touchdowns. His reliability and playmaking ability helped solidify South Carolina’s defensive unit as one of the strongest in the conference. Emmanwori’s leadership and presence on the field were integral to the team’s success, and his contributions will be remembered as a key part of the Gamecocks’ recent defensive resurgence.
Emmanwori announced his decision through a post on his X account, where he expressed his enduring connection to the program, referring to himself as a “Gamecock for life.” His departure marks the end of an impactful college career and the beginning of his journey toward a professional football career.
According to Aryton Ostley of USA Today, Emmanwori is projected to be a late first-round pick in the upcoming draft. Ostley predicts he could land with the Buffalo Bills, a team that could benefit from his versatility and skill set in the secondary. If this projection holds true, Emmanwori’s blend of size, athleticism, and football IQ could make him an immediate contributor at the professional level.
Emmanwori’s decision to enter the draft comes on the heels of similar announcements from teammates TJ Sanders and Debo Williams, signaling a significant shift for South Carolina as it prepares for the 2025 season. While the Gamecocks will miss his presence on the field, Emmanwori leaves behind a legacy of excellence and determination, setting a high standard for future players in the program.
As he transitions to the next stage of his football career, Emmanwori’s impressive collegiate achievements and potential as an NFL player have positioned him as one of the most exciting prospects in the 2025 draft class.
