Our Top 10 Safeties in 2025 Draft

Here is our first analysis of our top ten, Nick Emmanwori. We went back and watched some of his games and he will be used as a multi-role player, he will be a versatile and physical player for some team's defense. He can be used in various situations of the field. Emmanwori could be used as an extra linebacker on running downs. This dude is big enough to be that S/LB hybrid player that I hoped for for years. He also has that elite speed factor, 4.38/40 time. He is predicted to go in the mid 1st round. This the type of enforcer we need in the secondary.

#1- Nick Emmanwori- (S) South Carolina (6'3"/225#)

Emmanwori has exceptional size-speed combination, boasting a 4.38/40 time that will turn heads at the next level. He's a versatile defender capable of playing both safety and nickel, offering valuable flexibility to NFL defensive schemes. He has elite tackling ability, consistently wrapping up ball carriers and rarely ever missing tackles in open space. Emmanwori has impressive ball skills, he made 8 PBU's and 2 INT's in his Sophomore season and 88 total tackles, 4 INT's with 2 returned for TD's and 2 PBU's this past season. He's a strong run defender who diagnoses plays quickly and takes efficient angles to the point of attack. His high football IQ is demonstrated by his ability to lead the defense and make pre-snap adjustments. Emmanwori excels in man-to-man coverage, particularly against TE's and bigger WR's. He's a durable player who started 23 out of 24 games played in his college career.
Emmanwori's zone coverage skills need a little refinement, as he can occasionally lose positioning or miss assignments. He can be overly aggressive at times, potentially leading to missed tackles or blown coverages. He may need to add functional strength to consistently shed blocks from NFL-caliber O-Linemen. Emmanwori Is still developing as a blitzer and could improve his effectiveness when sent after the QB.
Emmanwori projects as a versatile safety with the potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL. His combination of size, speed and instincts make him and intriguing prospect for teams employing multiple defensive looks. While he excels in run support and man coverage, Emmanwori will need to refine his zone coverage skills to become a complete safety at the next level.
Scheme fit will be crucial for Emmanwori's success. His skillset is best suited for defenses that utilizes their safeties in varied roles, including in-the-box run support and man coverage on TE's. Creative defensive coordinators will value his positional flexibility to match up with different types of offensive weapons.
With his physical tools, production and room for growth, Emmanwori has the potential to develop into a high impact starter in the NFL. His tackling prowess and coverage skills provide a solid foundation for a productive pro career. As he continues to refine his game, Emmanwori could become a defensive playmaker capable of changing the complexion of games at the highest level.