As the second and third rounds of the 2025 NFL Draft came to a close on Friday night, South Carolina fans had a lot to talk about. Three Gamecocks were drafted, starting early in the second round, all of which made the top 50 picks in the Draft.
Nick Emmanwori: From Snub to Steal
Emmanwori was projected by many to be a first-round pick, however after an eventful first night of the Draft, he was slighted and slid into the second round. Fans expressed their disbelief and frustration on social media, as one user stated, " How did Emmanwori not go in the first? Teams are going to regret passing on him."
Nick Emmanwori after 8 pro bowls looking at all the NFL GM’s who didn’t take him first round pic.twitter.com/kVER90f0Kz
— Rob (@BigBobSC) April 25, 2025
However, it didn't take long to hear Nick Emmanwori's name called in the second round as he was picked 35th overall by the Seattle Seahawks. Fans, both old and new, celebrated online.
They’re bringing back the legion of BOOM! Congrats!! @Eman7Nick !!!
— Tim Cox (@CoxGamecocks) April 25, 2025
LETS GOO!! 🐔🤙
— Gamecocks (@Gamecock118) April 25, 2025
@Eman7Nick congrats! Irmo pride! #allgasnobrakes #gamecocks
— xxFLASHxx (@xxFlashGordon) April 25, 2025
T.J. Sanders: A Solid Addition
Defensive tackle T.J. Sanders selection to the Buffalo Bills as the No. 41 pick was met with widespread approval. Known for his pass-rushing skills and consistency, Sanders is seen as an asset to the Bills' defense. Fans took to social media with excitement, with one stating, "Great pick! Sanders is going to make an impact from day one."
One of my favorite Gamecocks drafted by my favorite team?! LETS GOOOOOOOOO!!!!!! TJ is a DAWG!
— Sarah Pavlovic (@SarahPavlovic3) April 25, 2025
AHHHHHH I HAVE A GAMECOCK IN BUFFALO LFGGGGGG
— C'am💫 (@GamecocksPlsWin) April 25, 2025
TJ TO BUFFALO‼️
— Barstool Gamecocks (@Barstool_Cocks) April 25, 2025
Best Sanders of the draft is off the board.
Demetrius Knight Jr.: An Interesting Pick
Linebacker Demetrius Knight Jr.'s selection by the Cincinnati Bengals at 49th overall sparked some mixed reactions. Gamecock fans were still riding high off of Emmanwori and Sander's draft picks and excited to see another Gamecock drafted, while other fans were surprised that he went that early. One fan posted, "Knight is a beast, but 49th? Seems like a reach." Despite the questions, the overall energy was confidence in his abilities.
Gamecock fans were even more excited that there were three draft picks in the second round for South Carolina players.
LETS GOOOOO DKNIGHT
— C'am💫 (@GamecocksPlsWin) April 26, 2025
That's three selections from #Gamecocks already in the second round. #NFLDraft
— Clayton Freeman (@CFreemanJAX) April 26, 2025
Gamecocks coming off the board like hotcakes in round 2. 🔥
— the D (@DieselOnRadio) April 26, 2025
Next Round
As the 2025 NFL Draft progresses, Gamecock fans will be eager to see where other standout player such as Kyle Kennard, Rocket Sanders, and Tonka Hemingway may land on the professional stage.
For ongoing updates and reactions, follow the conversation and stay connected with @GarnetNCocky on X (formerly known as Twitter) and check out GarnetandCocky.com.