Exclusive South Carolina Player Interviews and Expert Analysis from the 2025 NFL Combine

The excitement surrounding the 2025 NFL Combine is palpable as 11 South Carolina Gamecocks athletes make their way to Indianapolis to showcase their skills in front of NFL scouts, coaches, and decision-makers. The group includes standout players such as Nick Emmanwori, TJ Sanders, Kyle Kennard, Demetrius Knight, Rocket Sanders, O’Donnell Fortune, Josh Simon, Tonka Hemingway, Bam Martin-Scott, Torricelli Simpkins, and DeAndre Jules. Additionally, punter Kai Kroeger is participating in the NFL Combine Specialist Showcase.

With this impressive showing, South Carolina has the chance to break its all-time draft selection record. The program previously had seven players drafted in both 2009 and 2013. This year, with a record 11 Gamecocks invited to the combine, it’s entirely possible that at least seven could hear their names called in April’s draft.

While the on-field action is always a highlight, media and teams are also conducting in-depth interviews with players. Here are some key comments made by the Gamecocks and analysts during the early days of the Combine:

Nick Emmanwori – Safety

One of the biggest stories at this year’s combine is Nick Emmanwori, South Carolina’s All-American safety, who is exuding confidence. When asked which NFL player he models his game after, he didn’t hesitate to compare himself to Ravens All-Pro safety Kyle Hamilton. “I’m 6-3, 223 (like Hamilton),” Emmanwori explained. “I’m a bigger dude, and I can run. So, I’m not really scared to go make tackles, cover slots, or cover tight ends.”

But Emmanwori didn’t stop there. Projected by some as the top safety in the draft, he boldly stated, “I don’t think you’ve ever seen a safety like me… with my size, my speed, and my ability.” He further added, “Growing up, I used to play corner, so my footwork is probably the best of this safety class.”

Known for his speed, Emmanwori was also asked about his expectations for the 40-yard dash. The potential first-round pick was confident, saying, “4.3,” which would be faster than Hamilton’s Combine time of 4.5 seconds.

ESPN’s Jordan Reid: Nick Emmanwori “A Player to Watch”

Before hitting the field, Nick Emmanwori is already getting attention. ESPN Draft analyst Jordan Reid singled him out, saying, “He’s the one player I would recommend having an eye on” at the NFL Combine. With the spotlight shining on him, Emmanwori continues to be one of the most talked-about prospects heading into the event.

Kai Kroeger – Punter

While much of the focus has been on the position players, former Gamecock punter Kai Kroeger is also making waves. After a standout performance at the East-West Shrine Bowl, Kroeger received an invitation to the NFL Combine Specialist Showcase. Expressing his excitement, Kroeger said, “It means the world to me. As a kid growing up with dreams of playing in the NFL, the Combine is what you hope to get to for the NFL process.”

Kyle Kennard – Edge Rusher

Kyle Kennard has been making headlines as well, especially for the growth he’s shown under new position coach Sterling Lucas. During a conversation at the Combine, Kennard recalled how Lucas helped him refine his technique. “He kind of modernized the game for me,” Kennard said, reflecting on the small adjustments that turned his game around.

After a season where he recorded 11.5 sacks and 15.5 tackles-for-loss, Kennard credits his improvement to Lucas. “It’s a testament to my coach,” Kennard said. “He helped me be me more.”

On Thursday, Kennard will be showing what he can do on the field, hoping to solidify his spot as a Day 2 pick in the upcoming draft.

Demetrius Knight – Linebacker

While many Gamecocks have stood out for their on-field abilities, Demetrius Knight also made an impression with his off-the-field comments. Reflecting on his journey from quarterback to linebacker, Knight shared, “I thought I’d be here right now as a quarterback… but now I’m the quarterback of the defense.”

A former quarterback, Knight discussed how the transition to linebacker was challenging, especially with the added responsibility of making tackles. “Doing the hitting was something very foreign to me,” he said with a laugh, but he credits his time at South Carolina for helping him make the adjustment.

Looking ahead to 2025, Knight is excited about South Carolina’s future. He said, “South Carolina is going to be a team to reckon with for years and years to come. As long as Beamer’s there doing his thing, they’re going to be a great team to watch.”

Tonka Hemingway & TJ Sanders – Defensive Line

In interviews this week, Tonka Hemingway and TJ Sanders both reflected on how playing multiple sports in high school helped shape their football careers. Hemingway, who played both baseball and basketball, explained, “I feel like it all comes in one. It has helped me in this sport (football).”

For Sanders, his basketball background helped him develop his pass-rushing abilities. “A lot of my inside moves come from me thinking about a crossover,” Sanders said. He’s added that his time on the hardwood has made him “a faster d-tackle” who is “quicker than most interior guys.”

As the 2025 NFL Combine progresses, the Gamecocks continue to impress both on and off the field. With strong showings already from Emmanwori, Kennard, and others, this group is poised to make a significant impact on the upcoming NFL Draft. Stay tuned for more updates as these players continue their journey toward the pros.