2025 NFL Combine results: 5 standouts from the safeties group

Taking a closer look at the safeties who performed well at the 2025 NFL Combine.

The middle portion of on-field drills kicked off at the 2025 NFL Combine featuring the safeties, which put a bow on the defensive participants at this year’s event. While not a pressing need for the Detroit Lions, they can always use depth, and we take a look at which prospects could help them achieve that.

Here are the position groups we’ve covered so far:

• Interior defensive lineman
• Edge rushers
• Off-the-ball linebackers
• Cornerbacks

Also, if you missed it previously, here’s a look back at our article previewing the safeties group ahead of the Combine. And with that, let’s look at the safeties who stood out on Day 2 of on-field drills.

Nick Emmanwori, SAF/Cover LB, South Carolina (6-foot-3, 220) stole the show during the measurables, running a 4.38 40-yard dash, hitting 43-inches on the vertical jump, and clearing 11-foot-6 in the broad jump—all insane numbers for his size. Unfortunately, he shut it down for the day after that and elected to not participate in on-field workouts.

Malaki Starks, NB/FS, Georgia (6-foot-1, 197) was the big winner during on-field drills, showing out in nearly every activity. He ran two 4.5 second 40s, which was more than efficient for his game. Starks had some of the best hips of the safety group, and looked like a corner in backpedal drills. He was not afraid to turn and run—clearing over 20 mph in multiple drills per the broadcast—and was routinely able to turn and locate the ball on time. His ball location skills were on point, his hands were easy, and he high-pointed the ball regularly. Incredibly light on his feet, Starks floated around the football field, and everything looked easy for him.

Lathan Ransom, S/Box, Ohio State (6-foot-0, 206) didn’t run (a common theme amongst Buckeyes because they played late into the playoffs) but took part in on-field drills. Ransom was an easy mover and ran incredibly hard in every drill, showcasing tremendous effort. His burst out of his cuts was impressive, committed to each drill, and proved he has the hands to make plays on the ball.

Billy Bowman, S/NB, Oklahoma (5-foot-10, 192) had a very good day, and if he was a better tackler, he probably would’ve been on my Lions watchlist. He ran a 4.42 40-yard dash and didn’t appear to make a mistake during any of the drills. He has a very complete resume—save his tackling—and surely improved his stock with his performance.

Jonas Sanker, S, Virginia (6-foot-0, 206) ran better than expected (4.48 40-yard dash) and showed nice traits in drills. He stayed low in his hips, was willing to put his head down and go, because he trusted his ability to track the ball well. Sanker was smooth in his transitions, showed nice hands, and looks like he could be a high-end reserve.