Nick Emmanwori Compared to Derwin James in Latest First Round NFL Mock Draft

Oct 19, 2024; Norman, Oklahoma, USA;  South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Nick Emmanwori (7) reacts after returning an interception for a touchdown during the first half against the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images
Oct 19, 2024; Norman, Oklahoma, USA; South Carolina Gamecocks defensive back Nick Emmanwori (7) reacts after returning an interception for a touchdown during the first half against the Oklahoma Sooners at Gaylord Family-Oklahoma Memorial Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images / Kevin Jairaj-Imagn Images

The South Carolina Gamecocks faithful enjoyed the three seasons they watched Nick Emmanwori roam the back end of their defense. Now he's headed to the NFL, and he's received quite a player comp.

Nick Emmanwori enterred the South Carolina Gamecocks football program as a 3-star recruit. At 6'3, 208 pounds out of Irmo, South Carolina, Emmanwori was ranked 435th in his class. Upon arrival at South Carolina, it was pretty clear just how special of a football player the Gamecocks had on their hands. Emmanworri earned a starting role by the first series of his freshman season.

Three years later, Emmanwori stands nearly 6'4, 230 pounds and is perhaps the best safety in the upcoming NFL Draft. In the latest first-round NFL Mock Draft, NFL Network's lead Draft Analyst, Daniel Jeremiah has Emmanwori going 20th overall to the Broncos and he's compared him to an All-Pro.

"Emmanwori gave me some Derwin James vibes when I studied him. I love his instincts and production."

Nick Emmanwori Highlights:
*2024 First-Team All-American (AP, Sporting News, Reese’s Senior Bowl, College FB Nation)
*2024 Second-Team All-American (FAA, SI.com, CBS Sports, Phil Steele)
*2024 First-Team All-SEC (unanimous)
*2024 Rex Enright Team Captain
*2024 Joe Morrison MVP Defense
*2024 Blanchard-Rogers Trophy Finalist
*2024 Safety of the Year (College Football Nation)
*2024 SEC Player of the Year (College Football Nation)
*2024 SEC Defensive Player of the Year (College Football Nation)
*2024 SEC Safety of the Year (College Football Nation)

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Alex Joyce
ALEX JOYCE

Alex Joyce is a graduate from the University of Georgia with a degree in Journalism. Alex began his career in television as a news and sports reporter. During his career, Alex has been able to cover everything from breaking news to the game’s brightest moments. His passion for journalism drives him to deliver compelling stories and to connect with his audiences.