Seahawks Give Emmanwori Historic $11.6M Rookie Deal

The Seattle Seahawks have made NFL history by signing rookie safety Nick Emmanwori, the 35th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, to a fully guaranteed four-year, $11.6 million contract. This is the first time in league history that the 35th pick has received a fully guaranteed deal, and it aligns with a new trend as the first three second-round picks this year all received fully guaranteed contracts. The Seahawks traded up 17 spots to select Emmanwori, who impressed coaches during offseason practices with his versatility and is expected to play multiple roles in the defense. Seattle's commitment to Emmanwori stands out given past difficulties with second-round picks. With training camp approaching, only second-round tight end Elijah Arroyo remains unsigned for the Seahawks. The move may signal a broader shift in how NFL rookie deals are structured.