Nick Emmanwori, born on February 7, 2004, in Greensboro, North Carolina, is an American football safety known for his speed, versatility, and football intelligence. At the University of South Carolina, he earned First-Team All-American and First-Team All-SEC honors in 2024, and now he stands out as one of the top prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Quick Facts of Nick Emmanwori
| Full Name | Nick Emmanwori |
|---|---|
| Date of Birth | February 7, 2004 |
| Place of Birth | Greensboro, North Carolina, USA |
| Nationality | American |
| Height & Weight | 6’3″ (191 cm), 220 lbs (100 kg) |
| Position | Safety |
| College | University of South Carolina |
| Career Highlights | First-Team All-American (2024), First-Team All-SEC (2024), SEC Defensive Player of the Year (2024) |
| Projected NFL Draft | 2025, First Round |
Early Life and Family Background
Emmanwori moved with his family to Irmo, South Carolina, at age seven, where he attended Irmo High School. His high school performance impressed scouts, even though he received a three-star recruit rating. In July 2021, he committed to the University of South Carolina, ready to develop his skills at the collegiate level.
College Career and Key Milestones
Freshman Year (2022):
Emmanwori started 12 games, recording 85 tackles, including 49 solo stops. His performance earned him First-Team Freshman All-American honors and a spot on the SEC All-Freshman Team.
Sophomore Year (2023):
He maintained his role as a defensive leader, contributing with key tackles and interceptions while improving his field awareness.
Junior Year (2024):
Emmanwori had a breakout season. He earned First-Team All-American recognition, became a unanimous First-Team All-SEC selection, and won SEC Defensive Player of the Year. He led the team with 88 tackles and returned two of four interceptions for touchdowns. These achievements cemented his reputation as a versatile and dynamic safety.
NFL Draft Prospects and Combine Performance
At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, Emmanwori impressed scouts with a 43-inch vertical jump and an 11-foot-6 broad jump, ranking first in both events. He also clocked a 40-yard dash in the 4.3-second range, showcasing elite speed and agility. Consequently, analysts project him as a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Playing Style and Strengths
Emmanwori thrives as a hybrid safety-linebacker. His size, speed, and instincts allow him to cover ground quickly, make precise tackles, and adapt to multiple defensive roles. Scouts compare him to NFL stars such as Derwin James, noting his ability to change games with athleticism and intelligence.
Personal Life and Community Involvement
Emmanwori keeps his personal life private but actively engages with his community. He supports local families during Thanksgiving and participates in school-based programs, demonstrating his leadership and commitment off the field.
Net Worth and Lifestyle
Emmanwori’s earnings come primarily from scholarships and potential Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Although exact figures remain private, his endorsements and collegiate success suggest a growing financial profile.
Legacy and Future Outlook
Nick Emmanwori’s legacy at South Carolina reflects leadership, resilience, and defensive excellence. As a projected first-round NFL pick, he is expected to influence defensive strategies, inspiring a shift toward versatile safety roles in professional football.
