The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, held at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis from February 24 to March 3, showcased the talents of 11 South Carolina Gamecocks football players. This event provided a platform for these athletes to demonstrate their skills and athleticism to NFL scouts, coaches, and executives. The participants included:
- Nick Emmanwori, Safety
- Kyle Kennard, Defensive End
- Demetrius Knight, Linebacker
- Raheim Sanders, Running Back
- Joshua Simon, Tight End
- Torricelli Simpkins III, Offensive Lineman
- Tonka Hemingway, Defensive Lineman
- Bam Martin-Scott, Linebacker
- O’Donnell Fortune, Defensive Back
- Kai Kroeger, Punter (Specialist Showcase)
- DeAndre Jules, Offensive Lineman
This marked a program record for South Carolina, with 11 players invited to the combine. citeturn0search0
Nick Emmanwori’s Performance and Projections
Nick Emmanwori, a standout safety, entered the combine with high expectations. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 223 pounds, Emmanwori’s combination of size and speed drew comparisons to NFL safeties like Kyle Hamilton and Derwin James. He expressed confidence in his abilities, predicting a 40-yard dash time in the 4.3-second range.
During the combine, Emmanwori’s performance validated his self-assurance. He showcased exceptional agility and speed, impressing scouts with his ability to cover a wide range of offensive players. His versatility and athleticism solidified his status as a top safety prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft.
Kyle Kennard’s Athleticism and Draft Stock
Defensive end Kyle Kennard made a significant impression at the combine. After a breakout 2024 season, leading the SEC in sacks, Kennard demonstrated his explosiveness and speed. He ran an official 4.73-second 40-yard dash, underscoring his athleticism.
Kennard’s performance at the combine enhanced his draft stock, positioning him as a high-volume pass rusher with the potential to develop into an every-down player. His versatility and strong pass-rush skills make him an attractive prospect for NFL teams seeking to bolster their defensive lines.
Demetrius Knight’s Leadership and Versatility
Linebacker Demetrius Knight, known for his leadership and versatility, shared insights into his transition from high school quarterback to linebacker. He expressed confidence in the Gamecocks’ future, highlighting the team’s potential under head coach Shane Beamer’s leadership.
Knight’s adaptability and leadership qualities were evident during the combine, where he showcased his defensive skills and football IQ. His ability to read offenses and make decisive plays positions him as a valuable asset for NFL teams seeking a linebacker with a strong understanding of the game.
Raheim Sanders and Joshua Simon’s Offensive Contributions
Running back Raheim Sanders and tight end Joshua Simon also participated in the combine, aiming to demonstrate their skills to NFL scouts. Sanders, known for his speed and agility, showcased his ability to make defenders miss and gain significant yardage. Simon, a reliable target in the passing game, displayed his route-running and catching abilities, highlighting his potential as a versatile tight end.
Both players’ performances at the combine contributed to their draft prospects, with Sanders’ explosiveness and Simon’s receiving skills making them intriguing options for NFL teams looking to strengthen their offensive units.
Torricelli Simpkins III and DeAndre Jules’ Offensive Line Prospects
Offensive linemen Torricelli Simpkins III and DeAndre Jules participated in the combine, aiming to showcase their blocking techniques and physicality. Simpkins III demonstrated his strength and agility, while Jules highlighted his size and power, making them both promising candidates for NFL teams in need of offensive line reinforcement.
Their performances underscored the depth of talent in South Carolina’s offensive line, with both players displaying the skills necessary to compete at the professional level.
Tonka Hemingway and Bam Martin-Scott’s Defensive Showcases
Defensive lineman Tonka Hemingway and linebacker Bam Martin-Scott also participated in the combine, aiming to impress scouts with their defensive prowess. Hemingway showcased his strength and ability to disrupt plays in the backfield, while Martin-Scott demonstrated his speed and tackling ability, making them both valuable defensive prospects.
Their performances highlighted the defensive depth of the Gamecocks, with both players displaying the attributes sought after by NFL teams looking to enhance their defensive units.
Kai Kroeger’s Specialist Showcase
Punter Kai Kroeger participated in the NFL Combine Specialist Showcase, aiming to demonstrate his punting skills to NFL scouts. Kroeger’s strong leg and consistency in punting were evident, showcasing his potential as a reliable punter at the professional level.
His performance at the showcase added to the overall positive representation of South Carolina players at the combine, highlighting the program’s ability to produce talent across various positions.
Media Coverage and Analyst Insights
Leading up to and during the combine, South Carolina players received significant media attention. ESPN analyst Jordan Reid highlighted Nick Emmanwori as a player to watch, emphasizing his potential to make a strong impression.
Analysts praised the Gamecocks’ prospects for their athleticism, versatility, and leadership qualities, noting that their performances at the combine could significantly impact their draft positions.
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