Seahawks rookie Nick Emmanwori, drafted 35th overall, became a defensive cornerstone with 81 tackles and 11 passes defended in 2025.

Seahawks rookie Nick Emmanwori, a 6-foot-3, 220-pound hybrid defender from South Carolina, has become a key part of the team’s defense after being selected 35th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft. Despite a failed trade attempt, the Seahawks secured him by trading picks 52 and 82, drawn to his elite athleticism—highlighted by a 4.38-second 40-yard dash, 43-inch vertical, and 11-foot-6 broad jump at the Scouting Combine. Though injuries limited early action, Emmanwori quickly earned coaching praise for his versatility, playing seven defensive positions and recording 81 tackles, 2.5 sacks, and 11 passes defended in 14 games. His ability to thrive in coach Mike Macdonald’s “Nickel Emmanwori” package, featuring three safeties, has made him a foundational piece in Seattle’s defensive transformation.