The Seattle Seahawks returned to practice this week with one injury drawing attention and speculation ahead of the big game. Rookie safety Nick Emmanwori left Wednesday’s practice after rolling his ankle during a late drill. Head coach Mike Macdonald addressed the situation on Thursday as the team prepares for Super Bowl LX.
Mike Macdonald Provides Nick Emmanwori’s Super Bowl Injury Update
Macdonald said Emmanwori was diagnosed with a low ankle sprain following evaluation by the team’s medical staff. The coach described the injury as manageable and said he was confident the rookie would be available for Sunday’s game against the New England Patriots. The update marked the first official word from the team since Emmanwori exited practice.
Emmanwori also addressed his status directly. In comments shared by NFL Network reporter Omar Ruiz, the safety said he expects to play and added, “I’ll be good to go.” The statement came after a video circulated of the rookie walking with a slight limp outside the team facility.
Seahawks HC Mike Macdonald told reporters that S Nick Emmanwori suffered a low-ankle sprain Wednesday, but he is “confident” that he will play in Sunday’s Super Bowl.
— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) February 5, 2026
The injury occurred during the final portion of Wednesday’s practice, according to Macdonald. Teammates gathered near Emmanwori as trainers examined the ankle on the field before he left under his own power.
The 21-year-old has been a regular starter in Seattle’s defense during his first NFL season. Emmanwori’s role has included deep safety responsibilities and coverage assignments in nickel packages. He has been a key part of a unit that helped the Seahawks finish first in PFSN’s DEFi Metric.
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Macdonald said the team planned to take a cautious approach over the next two days of preparation. He indicated Emmanwori would participate in the walkthrough and that the medical staff would continue monitoring the ankle before the flight to Santa Clara.
Super Bowl 60 is scheduled for Sunday at Levi’s Stadium between Seattle and New England. The Seahawks are seeking their second championship in franchise history. Emmanwori is a critical chess piece on Macdonald’s defense board as his versatility allows Seattle to remain multiple and flexible.
Seattle has not announced any roster moves related to the position, and Macdonald said the team would follow its normal game-week routine. The Seahawks are expected to release updated information after the final practice of the week.
Emmanwori was selected in the second round of the 2025 draft out of South Carolina and quickly earned a starting role. His presence has been part of Seattle’s defensive identity throughout the season.
