Seahawks expect Nick Emmanwori to play in Super Bowl despite ankle injury
Seattle rookie defensive back Nick Emmanwori suffered a low-ankle sprain Wednesday but head coach Mike Macdonald said he is expected to play Sunday.
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Seattle Seahawks rookie defensive back Nick Emmanwori is expected to play in Super Bowl 60 despite suffering an ankle injury Wednesday, head coach Mike Macdonald said Thursday.
Emmanwori was injured late in Wednesday's practice at San Jose State University, about 8 miles from Levi's Stadium, the site of the Super Bowl. He was defending a pass when the injury occurred. The 21-year-old walked off the field under his own power and was officially listed as limited.
Macdonald identified the injury as a low-ankle sprain. "Not sure how extensive, if at all, he's going to practice," the coach said. "But he's confident. Got a great plan. Fully expect him to play. He's doing great and moving around."
The team said Emmanwori would undergo imaging to assess the injury. Macdonald added that the Seahawks would likely be cautious with the rookie to ensure he is ready for Sunday's matchup against the New England Patriots.
Emmanwori, the 35th pick of the 2025 NFL Draft, suffered a high-ankle sprain on his right ankle four snaps into the regular-season opener in September. He missed three games before returning to play. Wednesday was the Seahawks' only practice with pads before the Super Bowl.
The rookie is a finalist for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, with the winner to be announced during the NFL Honors show Thursday.