Super Bowl LX: Seahawks’ Unusual Strategy

In Super Bowl LX, the Seattle Seahawks executed a strategy that was, well, quite unexpected — and it turned out incredibly effective.

Against the New England Patriots, a team known for its power running offense throughout the 2025 season, Seattle surprisingly deployed its base defense only 1.5% of the time. The Patriots relied heavily on their standard formation, with 79.1% of their plays featuring 11 players on the field. Yet, the Seahawks showed a distinct preference for nickel (five defensive backs) 44.8% of the time—14.2% below the NFL average—and stunned everyone by utilizing dimes (six defensive backs) a staggering 53.7% of the time, which is 43.9% lower than the average. In the end, Seattle triumphed with a score of 29-13.

At the heart of this success was Nik Emanwori, a 6’3″, 220-pound safety drafted 35th overall from South Carolina after a remarkable performance at the 2025 Scouting Combine. Head coach Mike McDonald has made Emanwori a versatile asset, reminiscent of Kyle Hamilton’s role during McDonald’s tenure with the Baltimore Ravens from 2022 to 2023.

“We’ve had him play 9-technique, 5-technique. He’s been playing the slot,” McDonald mentioned last December about Emanwori. “There’s a lot on his plate. I keep telling him: ‘You’ve got to meet expectations and grasp the opportunities presented. Play your game, break through any barriers, and if issues arise, we’ll adjust. Just focus on the next game and keep pushing forward.’

Overall, Emanwori performed impressively, logging 51% of his snaps in the box, 45% in the slot, and 2% each in deep third and as an overhang defender. He’s genuinely part of a legacy of multi-talented safeties, which includes names like Charles Woodson, Eric Berry, and Tyrann Mathieu. With the increasing importance of such players in the NFL, this was certainly underscored during the latest draft.

• The Dallas Cowboys selected Caleb Downs from Ohio State with the 11th overall pick.
• The Chicago Bears selected Dillon Thieneman from Oregon State with the 25th overall pick.
• The Cleveland Browns selected Toledo’s Emmanuel McNeil Warren with the 58th pick.

Now, the question arises: what can these new players contribute across the field upon joining the NFL?

Caleb Downs, Dallas Cowboys

Last year, as part of the Ohio State Buckeyes, Downs divided his time with 37% of snaps at a two-deep safety position, 30% in the slot, and 17% at single-high safety. He maintained solid stats with 1 sack, 5 pressures, and 58 solo tackles, among others. Notably, while allowing 25 catches on 38 targets for 168 yards, he effectively minimized damage with no touchdowns allowed, recording 2 interceptions instead and achieving an impressive passer rating against him of 53.4.

Described by some as potentially the most NFL-ready player in the draft, Downs excelled in Matt Patricia’s defensive scheme, showcasing skills that should translate well in his new role under Christian Parker, who emphasizes innovative coverage strategies. Parker stated, “His instinct stands out. He reads the game effortlessly and maintains a unique connection between his mind and his movements.”

He also added, “Downs is consistently making the right calls, positioning himself perfectly, and executing plays smoothly.”

Dillon Thieneman, Chicago Bears

Thieneman played a variety of roles for the Oregon Ducks, with 54% of his snaps at split safety, emphasizing his adaptability. He recorded impressive statistics like four pressures and 72 solo tackles, allowing only 18 catches on 29 targets. His performance reveals a nuanced understanding of the game, blending physicality with solid coverage.

“His range is something special,” explained Breck Ackley, the Bears’ director of college scouting. “He can flex between positions effectively. He not only brings skills developed at Purdue but has also recently showcased his ability to adapt in different roles.”

Thieneman’s unique attributes in coverage are likely to make him a key player in Bears’ defense under Dennis Allen moving forward.

Emmanuel McNeil Warren, Cleveland Browns

McNeil Warren exhibited versatility for the Toledo Rockets last season, with 45% of his snaps at single-high safety among various positions. He compiled notable stats including 42 solo tackles and two interceptions, allowing just six catches on 15 targets for a 50.3 opposing passer rating, which is fairly impressive.

“Emanuel brings a special versatility,” remarked Katherine Hickman, the Assistant GM. “Coaches will find plenty of ways to utilize him on defense.” Yet, it’s somewhat surprising he made it to the second round—you’d think with his height, agility, and athletic prowess, he would have been picked earlier.

This new breed of safety is becoming essential across the NFL, and McNeil Warren has the potential to fit right into that mold.