When people think of wide receivers, they picture speed, agility, and great hands. But strength? Yes, that too! At the NFL Combine, wide receivers show off their power in the bench press test.
How Much Do They Lift?
The weight used for the bench press at the NFL Scouting Combine is 225 pounds (102 kg). The test measures how many times a player can lift this weight. It’s not about maximum strength but muscular endurance.
What’s Considered a Good Score?
Wide receivers are not expected to hit the same numbers as linemen or linebackers. However, a solid performance still matters. Here’s a rough breakdown:
- Elite strength: 20 or more reps
- Above average: 15–19 reps
- Average: 10–14 reps
- Below average: Less than 10 reps
Most wide receivers land in the 10–15 range. However, some outliers impress scouts with high numbers.
Record-Breaking Performances
Over the years, a few wide receivers have put on incredible bench press displays. Some of the best performances include:
- Anquan Boldin – 20 reps
- N’Keal Harry – 27 reps (one of the highest for a receiver!)
- DK Metcalf – 27 reps (he’s built like a superhero!)
Not bad for players known for their speed rather than strength!
Why Does It Matter?
You might wonder, “Why do wide receivers even need to bench press?” Good question! While it’s not the most important test for them, it does show:
- Upper body strength – Helps fight off defenders
- Physical endurance – Useful for maintaining power throughout a game
- Competitiveness – Some players simply want to show they have it all
Of course, scouts care more about a wide receiver’s speed, agility, and hands. But being strong certainly doesn’t hurt!
Does Strength Equal Success?
Not always! Some of the greatest NFL wide receivers didn’t put up huge bench press numbers. For example:
- Jerry Rice – Never known as a power lifter, but still one of the best ever
- Randy Moss – Relied on speed and leaping ability, not brute strength
- Tyreek Hill – Uses his speed to dominate, not just muscle
The takeaway? Strength is helpful, but it’s not everything for a receiver.
Final Thoughts
Wide receivers at the combine usually bench press 225 pounds for as many reps as possible. Most land in the 10–15 rep range, while some super-strong receivers push closer to 20 or more.
But in the end, the best wide receivers are the ones who catch passes, outrun defenders, and score touchdowns. The bench press is just one small part of the bigger picture!
