South Carolina football alum ranked as PFF's No. 1 NFL safety

South Carolina defensive back Nick Emmanwori was one of the most impressive players in the country as a junior in 2024 and then had a standout showing at the 2025 NFL Combine. So far, he has continued his excellence on the field as a pro. Following selection in the second round of the NFL Draft by the Seattle Seahawks, Emmanwori has had a great start to his rookie year.
In fact, Emmanwori is the highest-rated safety in the NFL, according to Pro Football Focus. The rookie holds a PFF grade of 84.8 this season, the best in the league. He has played snaps at safety and in the slot at corner this year.
That 84.8 mark includes an 83.5 grade against the run, 81.1 grade against the pass, and a 71.1 mark as a blitzer.
It is worth noting that Emmanwori missed some time with an ankle sprain, so his snap count is lower than most of the other safeties at the top of PFF’s player rankings. However, when he has been in the game, the Irmo, South Carolina native has been excellent.
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His best statistical game of the season (and his biggest workload) came on Sunday.
In a 20-12 road victory over the Jacksonville Jaguars, Emmanwori logged nine total tackles, including six solo stops. No player on either team had more tackles. Emmanwori recorded a tackle for loss and also pressured Jaguars QB Trevor Lawrence to help force a key punt.
Emmanwori will have a chance to showcase his skill on a big stage next week. The Seahawks play against the Houston Texans on Monday Night Football on October 20th. The 8:00 p.m. interconference matchup will air on ESPN.