As the Seattle Seahawks push toward a 2026 repeat bid, starting safety Julian Love singled out rookie nickel Nick Emmanwori in their offseason program, praising the “one of one” impact he’s already made after a standout first season that included major defensi
The Seahawks didn’t just finish strong last season—they built momentum into a repeat attempt in 2026. On Wednesday, during Seattle’s offseason program, that future started getting spoken about in the clearest terms possible.
Starting safety Julian Love. a veteran in the building. put a spotlight on nickel Nick Emmanwori while discussing what’s next for the defense. Speaking on Emmanwori’s early impact. Love praised the South Carolina product as something rare in the league: “He’s so special. He’s one of one in this league,” Love said. “We give him comparisons to a lot of different players, but nothing is what he does. So if we can maximize him this year. I mean if he is the heart of this team this year. in terms of just talent. he’s really special.”.
It was the kind of remark that carries weight because Emmanwori’s first NFL season didn’t leave much room for debate. He finished second in voting for Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2025, and he did it while playing a role that helped define Seattle’s defense as one of the best units in football.
There was also the reality of a physical style. Emmanwori struggled with some injuries at times during his rookie season. and that part of the story is tied to how aggressively he plays—especially in a box-heavy. physical nickel role. Even so, his production showed up quickly and often. In 14 regular-season games, the former second-round pick recorded 11 pass breakups and nine tackles for loss. He also picked off one pass and collected 2.5 sacks.
Love’s praise hits the heart of what makes Emmanwori valuable to Mike Macdonald’s defensive approach as the Seahawks look to keep their trajectory. Emmanwori’s versatility stands out most. He’s described as elite against the run thanks to his strength and athleticism. hard to block. and willing to get into tackles. In coverage, he’s been strong as a zone defender, with improvement in man coverage in 2025.
The Super Bowl LX victory over the New England Patriots is already part of the Seahawks’ recent identity—Seattle won in dominant fashion—but the message from the offseason program was about the next step. If Emmanwori continues to improve the skills Love believes he can. the ceiling being suggested inside the building is clear: the path toward becoming an All-Pro player in the league.
Seattle Seahawks Nick Emmanwori Julian Love Mike Macdonald Super Bowl LX Defensive Rookie of the Year NFL news Seahawks offseason program