The Seahawks announced this week that S Nick Emmanwori will open training camp on the physically unable to perform list. When I read that, I just assumed they were being cautious with the ankle injury that made him questionable for the Super Bowl but didn't keep him from playing.But ESPN's Brady Henderson reports, however, that the second-year safety had surgery on that right ankle and is "expected to miss some time," though they anticipate he'll be ready for the regular season.
What They're Saying: He Tried to Avoid Surgery
Henderson: "According to a source, the Seahawks knew that Emmanwori might eventually require surgery. He tried to manage his ankle over the offseason, but as he was ramping up for the start of training camp, he continued to experience soreness and opted to have an arthroscopic procedure that was performed earlier [in July]."
2026 Fantasy Football Impact: Return Will Bear Watching
Emmanwori suffered a high-ankle sprain in Week 1 and a low-ankle sprain in practice leading up to the Super Bowl on the same leg.
Arthroscopic surgeries tend to be less serious, and we have no reason to disbelieve the notion that Emmanwori will be ready early in the season. But it's obviously worrisome that he had the procedure so close to the start of training camp.
We not only need to see that he's back healthy. We'll also need to see that the young safety's ready for full football action. It wouldn't be surprising if he needs to be eased in to full playing time at the start of the season, especially the closer we get to Week 1 without a return to the field.
I'll be watching for Emmanwori's return and reports on his status.
