The Seattle Seahawks drafted safety Nick Emmanwori to be a versatile safety who could play the run and put pressure on opposing quarterbacks at times. He did need some work in coverage schemes, as all rookies need. But his raw athleticism was going to be put to good use.
As long as he could stay healthy, of course. Unfortunately, on Seattle's first defensive drive of the season, Emmanwori went down and limped off the field. He tried to job on the sideline, went into the blue medical tent, but eventually had to go to the locker room.
There was no word on what exactly his injury was or how bad it was, but clearly, his ankle was a concern. An injury to either could keep Emmanwori out for some time, but hopefully, the team is just being cautious with their young player, who could turn into a Kam Chancellor type.
Seahawks' Mike Macdonald gives update on Nick Emmanwori injury
He isn't quite as physically imposing as Chancellor, but Emmanwori is faster. He was likely going to get 15-20 snaps a game to begin with, as Seattle was fairly set at safety with Julian Love and Coby Bryant. Emmanwori is the kind of sneaky talent who will be used to disguise head coach Mike Macdonald's defensive scheme.
Seattle allowed their Week 1 opponent, the San Francisco 49ers, to drive 95 yards for a touchdown. It likely didn't matter if Emmanwori was in the game or not. The 49ers were simply out-scheming the Seahawks.
The hope, of course, is that Emmanwori is able to come back sooner than what first appeared to be a fairly serious injury that could keep him out for some time. He was able to return during the game for one kickoff, but was then ruled out.
After the game, head coach Mike Macdonald said that there did not appear to be any structural damage and everything was intact, the team thinks. Ankle injuries can get worse the next day. Most likely, the Seattle Seahawks will give updates on Emmanwori throughout the week ahead of Week 2.