Seattle Seahawks Select Kansas Wide Receiver Emmanuel Henderson Jr. In Sixth Round Of 2026 NFL Draft
Emmanuel Henderson Jr. enters the league expecting a selection between the fourth and seventh rounds, expressing eagerness to reunite with former teammates and contribute across multiple positions.
The Seattle Seahawks have selected wide receiver Emmanuel Henderson Jr. in the sixth round of the 2026 NFL Draft. The move marks the conclusion of a pre-draft process in which Henderson, who entered the event expecting to be taken between the fourth and seventh rounds, spoke with the Seattle organisation but noted that no selection was guaranteed at the time.
Henderson, a former player at the University of Alabama who transferred to the University of Kansas for the 2025 season, expressed excitement about joining a franchise coming off a Super Bowl title. He highlighted the prospect of reuniting with former Alabama teammates within the new squad, a factor he cited alongside his enthusiasm for his first professional opportunity.
Regarding his specific contributions to the team, Henderson emphasised his versatility, stating he possesses the ability to play inside, outside, and in the backfield. He noted his particular affinity for special teams, citing his All-Big 12 Conference first-team honour as a returner at Kansas and his recognition as an offensive newcomer of the year.
The Kansas head coach, Lance Leipold, publicly supported the selection following the announcement. Henderson reflected on his collegiate tenure, recalling a kickoff return for a touchdown against West Virginia as a fond memory, and indicated that his experience on special teams provides a distinct advantage as he attempts to make the Seahawks roster.
Looking toward the offseason, Henderson aims to demonstrate his personality and work ethic to his new coaches while developing chemistry with his teammates. He acknowledged that while he has showcased his capabilities to NFL teams during the pre-draft process, the ultimate challenge will be ensuring his versatility translates effectively to the professional level.
The reporting on this selection was originally published by The Topeka Capital-Journal, with coverage provided by Jordan Guskey, who has been covering University of Kansas Athletics.
