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The NFL Combine is an annual event where prospective NFL players showcase their athletic abilities to scouts and team representatives. One of the key measurements used to assess a player's speed and explosiveness is the 40-yard dash. In this blog, we'll dive into the top fastest 40-yard dash times in NFL Combine history. These times represent remarkable feats of speed and agility, and they have often been indicative of successful NFL careers.
John Ross (2017): 4.22 seconds
The record for the fastest 40-yard dash time in NFL Combine history belongs to John Ross, a wide receiver from the University of Washington. He clocked in at an astonishing 4.22 seconds in 2017. Ross's incredible speed helped him become the 9th overall pick in the 2017 NFL Draft by the Cincinnati Bengals. Although injuries have plagued his career, his Combine performance will forever be remembered.
Chris Johnson (2008): 4.24 seconds
Chris Johnson, a running back from East Carolina University, is second on the list with a blazing 4.24-second 40-yard dash in the 2008 Combine. Johnson's speed earned him the nickname "CJ2K" (CJ for Chris Johnson and 2K for his goal of gaining 2,000 rushing yards in a season). He achieved this feat in 2009, becoming only the sixth player in NFL history to do so.
Rondel Menendez (1999): 4.24 seconds
Rondel Menendez, a relatively lesser-known name, shares the second spot with Chris Johnson. He set the record in 1999, demonstrating the power of the Combine in unearthing hidden talents. Menendez's speed helped him secure a spot with the Atlanta Falcons as a wide receiver.
Dri Archer (2014): 4.26 seconds
Dri Archer, a running back from Kent State, amazed scouts and fans alike with his 4.26-second 40-yard dash in 2014. His impressive time earned him a spot with the Pittsburgh Steelers in the third round of the NFL Draft. Archer's Combine performance showcased the impact a quick time can have on a player's draft stock.
Marquise Goodwin (2013): 4.27 seconds
Marquise Goodwin, a wide receiver from the University of Texas, ran a 4.27-second 40-yard dash at the 2013 Combine. His speed led to his selection by the Buffalo Bills in the third round of the draft. Goodwin's time demonstrated his elite athleticism, making him a versatile threat on the field.
Jerome Mathis (2005): 4.28 seconds
Jerome Mathis, a wide receiver from Hampton University, clocked a 4.28-second 40-yard dash in 2005. His speed caught the attention of the Houston Texans, who selected him in the fourth round of the draft. Mathis made an immediate impact as a return specialist, earning a Pro Bowl selection in his rookie season.
Yamon Figurs (2007): 4.30 seconds
Yamon Figurs, a wide receiver from Kansas State, ran a 4.30-second 40-yard dash in 2007. His quick time earned him a spot with the Baltimore Ravens in the third round of the draft. Figurs made his mark as a return specialist, showcasing the value of speed in various aspects of the game.
Jalen Myrick (2017): 4.29 seconds
Jalen Myrick, a cornerback from the University of Minnesota, posted a 4.29-second 40-yard dash time at the 2017 Combine. His impressive speed led to him being drafted by the Jacksonville Jaguars in the seventh round. Myrick's speed provided him with an opportunity to contribute as a cornerback and special teams player in the NFL.
Jacoby Ford (2010): 4.28 seconds
Jacoby Ford, a wide receiver from Clemson, ran a 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the 2010 Combine. His speed earned him a selection by the Oakland Raiders in the fourth round. Ford's ability to stretch the field and contribute as a return specialist made him a valuable asset for his team.
Demarcus Van Dyke (2011): 4.28 seconds
Demarcus Van Dyke, a cornerback from the University of Miami, matched Jacoby Ford's time of 4.28 seconds in the 2011 Combine. The Oakland Raiders took notice of his speed, drafting him in the third round. Van Dyke's Combine performance helped him secure a place in the NFL.
These top 10 fastest 40-yard dash times in NFL Combine history demonstrate the significance of speed in professional football. Players who excel in this measurement often have an edge in their draft prospects and in their NFL careers. Speed can be a game-changer, impacting every aspect of the game, from offense and defense to special teams.
It's worth noting that while a fast 40-yard dash time can be a great asset, it's not the only factor that determines success in the NFL. Players must also possess other essential qualities, including football IQ, agility, strength, and work ethic. A combination of these attributes, along with speed, is what truly sets the greats apart from the rest.
Additionally, these top 10 times represent just a fraction of the impressive performances throughout NFL Combine history. Many other players have recorded exceptional 40-yard dash times, even if they didn't make this list. Each year, new talents emerge, and existing records are pushed to their limits.
To conclude, the NFL Combine's 40-yard dash is not just a display of speed; it's a testament to the dedication and hard work that these athletes put into their craft. While some may argue that the 40-yard dash is just a small part of a football player's skill set, it's undeniable that speed remains a crucial element of the game. These top 10 fastest 40-yard dash times serve as a reminder of the incredible athleticism that NFL prospects bring to the field and the excitement they generate in the world of professional football
