South Carolina’s Nick Emmanwori has made an emphatic statement at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, solidifying his place as one of the most physically gifted safeties in recent memory. The 6-foot-3, 220-pound defensive back, known for his raw athleticism, wasted no time proving why he was ranked No. 1 on The Athletic’s Combine Freaks List. His exceptional display at Lucas Oil Stadium has not only cemented his reputation but also skyrocketed his draft stock ahead of April’s NFL Draft.
Nick Emmanwori turned heads with a remarkable 11-foot-6 broad jump and an astounding 43-inch vertical—both of which stand as the best marks recorded at this year’s combine. His vertical jump made history, as Warren Sharp of Sharp Football pointed out, marking the highest ever recorded by a player weighing at least 200 pounds. His 40-yard dash time of 4.38 seconds, accompanied by a blistering 1.49-second 10-yard split, showcased his elite speed.
The towering safety’s performance was even more impressive when compared to previous standout defensive backs. The last time a player of his size leaped this high was in 2017 when UConn’s Obi Melifonwu posted a 44-inch vertical. In 2024, Tyler Owens of Texas Tech, who weighed 215 pounds, managed a 12-foot-2 broad jump with a 41-inch vertical before signing with the Washington Commanders as an undrafted free agent. However, Emmanwori’s explosive numbers, combined with his versatility, make him a rare prospect in this year’s draft class.
While Emmanwori’s combine stats have been eye-popping, his on-field production has been just as impressive. In 2024, he was a defensive force for the South Carolina Gamecocks, racking up 88 tackles, four interceptions, and three tackles for loss en route to earning first-team All-American honors. Over the course of his three-year college career, he accumulated 250 total tackles, six interceptions—including two pick-sixes last season—and 11 passes defensed. His ability to cover ground with elite speed and deliver physical tackles makes him a coveted prospect for teams looking to bolster their secondary.
Despite being a former three-star recruit, Emmanwori has rapidly ascended the ranks and is now projected as a top-40 pick. NFL defensive back coaches at the combine have taken notice of his rare blend of size, speed, and playmaking ability, making him a strong candidate to be one of the first safeties off the board in April.
Emmanwori himself knew he had something special to showcase at the combine. Ahead of his workout, he confidently predicted he could post elite numbers. When asked about his 40-yard dash expectations, he simply stated, “4.3.” After delivering on that promise, he further expressed his belief in his uniqueness as a player: “I heard a little bit of talks about being the fastest DB. I do think I am one of the fastest. Top three, maybe top five for sure. … I don’t think you’ve ever seen a safety like me. Well, there are a lot of dudes that came through this league, but a safety like me hasn’t come through this league for a long time. My size, my speed, my ability.”
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With a dominant collegiate resume and a historic combine performance, Emmanwori has positioned himself as one of the most exciting prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. As teams evaluate their needs in the secondary, his name is sure to be high on their draft boards, with his elite physical traits and playmaking ability setting him apart from the competition.
