One of the trends Nick Emmanwori is helping popularize in the NFL is the use of big defensive backs who can essentially serve as a combination of a safety and linebacker. At 6-foot-3 and 220 pounds with elite athletic ability, Emmanwori became a key piece of the Seattle Seahawks' defense as a rookie because he didn't have to be locked into one position.
Seattle used him in the slot, at linebacker, off the edge and at safety, allowing the defense to adjust to different offensive personnel without constantly substituting. His success provides an intriguing blueprint for Texas linebacker Rasheem Biles, a 2027 NFL Draft prospect with the versatility to potentially fill a similar role at the next level.
Rasheem Biles could be the 2027 NFL Draft's next hybrid weapon
Rasheem Biles, who started his career at Pittsburgh before transferring to Texas, brings the type of skill set that could intrigue teams looking for their own version of that defensive weapon. During his three seasons with the Panthers, Biles recorded 181 tackles, 31 tackles for loss and 16 pass breakups. While his production is impressive, the biggest question will be where he fits at the next level, as he stands just 6-foot-1 and 222 pounds.
Instead of viewing his lack of traditional size at linebacker as a weakness, NFL teams may want to look at Biles as a potential big nickel defender. He has the speed, loose hips and coverage ability to match up with tight ends and running backs while still bringing the physicality needed to play against the run.
RASHEEM BILES COMES IN CLUTCH pic.twitter.com/ymNcZN92IV
— Texas Football (@TexasFootball) September 26, 2026
Biles' 32 tackles for loss also show that he is much more than a coverage linebacker. He diagnoses plays quickly, attacks downhill and has the ability to make plays behind the line of scrimmage.
The biggest question won't necessarily be whether Biles has an NFL position. It may be whether the team that drafts him is creative enough to take advantage of everything he can do. If used as a movable defensive weapon instead of a traditional linebacker, Biles could become one of the more intriguing defenders in the 2027 NFL Draft.
Add us as a preferred source on Google