Toledo DB Emmanuel McNeil-Warren Emerging as NFL Draft Prospect

Scouting report highlights the defensive back's physicality, playmaking ability, and potential as a mid-round selection.

Published on Feb. 11, 2026

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Emmanuel McNeil-Warren, a defensive back out of the University of Toledo, is generating buzz as an intriguing prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. The 6-foot-2, 202-pound defensive back has been a productive starter for the Rockets over the past three seasons, showcasing a physical playing style, impressive ball skills, and a knack for forcing turnovers.

Why it matters

With the NFL's continued emphasis on versatile defensive backs who can excel in both coverage and run support, McNeil-Warren's combination of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability could make him an attractive target for teams looking to bolster their secondary in the early-to-mid rounds of the draft.

The details

McNeil-Warren played sparingly as a freshman in 2022 before emerging as a full-time starter the following year, recording 69 tackles, four tackles for loss, three pass breakups, and two interceptions. He followed that up with 61 tackles, five breakups, and one interception in eight starts in 2024 before sustaining a season-ending injury. In 2025, he posted 77 tackles, 5.5 tackles for loss, five pass breakups, and two interceptions, one of which he returned for a touchdown. Over his career, McNeil-Warren has also forced nine fumbles, showcasing his physicality and ball-hawking skills.

  • McNeil-Warren played sparingly as a freshman in 2022.
  • In 2023, he played over 600 snaps and started five games.
  • He started all eight games he appeared in during the 2024 season before suffering a season-ending injury.
  • McNeil-Warren reprised his starting role in 2025 and posted strong numbers.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is the next major milestone for McNeil-Warren's football career.

The players

Emmanuel McNeil-Warren

A 6-foot-2, 202-pound defensive back who has been a productive starter for the University of Toledo over the past three seasons.

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What they’re saying

“Emmanuel McNeil-Warren has the tools and temperament to be off the board within the first couple of rounds. He's somewhat reminiscent of 2021 second-rounder Trevon Moehrig.”

— Matthew Jones, NFL Draft Analyst (FantasyPros)

What’s next

McNeil-Warren will look to impress scouts at the upcoming NFL Combine in February, where he'll have the opportunity to showcase his physical attributes and football skills in front of league decision-makers.

The takeaway

As the NFL continues to prioritize versatile defensive backs who can excel in both coverage and run support, McNeil-Warren's combination of size, athleticism, and playmaking ability could make him an intriguing mid-round target for teams looking to bolster their secondary in the 2026 NFL Draft.