Nick Emmanwori is an intriguing prospect. The Seattle Seahawks' selection at No. 35 overall in the 2025 NFL draft has unbelievable athletic traits. He ran the 40-yard dash in just 4.38 seconds, had 20 reps on the bench press, and recorded a 43-inch vertical jump.
Now, he's working hard to hone his skills so that he's seen as a great football player, not just someone who is a great athlete who happens to play football. The good news is that Emmanwori has a strong foundation after being a leader on a stingy South Carolina defense. He held his own in the SEC, giving him the confidence to take on the best in the NFL. The good news is that he's not foolish enough to think he can jump right in and dominate at the pro level.
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Instead, the rookie has been putting in the work and is asking for help when needed. That's evident by the fact that he's been frequently visiting head coach Mike Macdonald's offense. These unannounced visits led to Macdonald playfully telling him the door is closed.
Seattle Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald talks to the media after training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. / Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
"Nick keeps showing up," Macdonald said via John Boyle of Seahawks.com. "I have to tell him, 'Hey, man, the door is closed. Knock.' No, Nick has been up there a bunch."
He added that Emmanwori has the humility to ask questions, as he aims to get better every day.
"First thing is the vets in the room are really leading him, and they're doing a great job of setting the expectation, bringing him along. He's understanding he's a rookie, but, 'Hey, let's go. You're with us, but there's a certain standard that you're going to have to abide by.' Nick has the humility to do that and to operate that way. But to his credit, we're giving him a lot."
South Carolina Gamecocks safety Nick Emmanwori returns an interception for a touchdown during the first half against the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Macdonald has an excellent track record as a defensive coach, including a long run with the Baltimore Ravens, although he did lead for a year to serve as the Michigan defensive coordinator. Emmanwori understands his coach has a plethora of defensive knowledge and is trying to soak in all he can.
That's why it's not a bad thing to see him driving Macdonald just a little crazy.
