Toledo S Emmanuel McNeil-Warren landed with the Browns in the second round of the NFL Draft. McNeil-Warren spent three of his four college seasons drawing starter-level playing time, working primarily as a “box” safety. That split became even more pronounced as his career progressed, according to Pro Football Focus numbers.
NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah: “McNeil-Warren is a tall, long safety prospect with fantastic production. … Every game I examined was littered with big hits, plays on the ball and HIGH energy. He’s a very explosive player. … Overall, McNeil-Warren is a bouncy, twitchy athlete with Pro Bowl potential.”
McNeil-Warren’s work in the box -- closer to the line of scrimmage -- makes it easier to project him for numbers. The question will be how the Browns plan to use him.
TMW spent 53% of his career snaps in the box at Toledo, according to PFF.
That type of role would enhance his tackle opportunities vs. playing more deep coverage. McNeil-Warren also improved his PFF coverage grade each college season and produced a paltry 50.3 passer rating on balls thrown into his coverage in 2025.
Cleveland could let him battle Ronnie Hickman for a starting safety spot, but McNeil-Warren might have a better shot at winning the slot CB job this season, with Myles Harden the main competition.
I'll be watching for word on the plan for the rookie before finalizing his projection. If he's headed for a full-time role, EMW will present some IDP upside.
The plan will impact McNeil-Warren's dynasty outlook as well, though obviously not as much.
Even if he doesn't start at safety right away, there will be room for EMW to step into such a role during his rookie contract.
He'll make sense as a later-round option in rookie drafts.
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