The 40-yard dash is one of the most iconic drills in the NFL Scouting Combine, serving as a benchmark for evaluating an athlete’s speed and explosiveness. Every year, draft prospects line up at the start line, hoping to impress scouts with a blazing-fast sprint. While many players demonstrate great speed, only a few have set records that stand the test of time.
The Importance of the 40-Yard Dash
The 40-yard dash is a critical test for NFL hopefuls, primarily for positions that rely on speed, such as wide receivers, cornerbacks, and running backs. A fast time can significantly boost a player’s draft stock, while a slow time may cause concerns about their in-game acceleration and quickness.
During the Combine, players are given two attempts to record their best possible time. The test is electronically timed to ensure accuracy, and the results often dictate how teams perceive a player’s athletic potential.
Fastest 40-Yard Dash in NFL Combine History
The fastest officially recorded 40-yard dash in NFL Combine history belongs to John Ross, a wide receiver from the University of Washington. In 2017, Ross shattered expectations by running an astonishing 4.22 seconds, breaking the previous record set by Chris Johnson in 2008.
Ross’s performance was so impressive that he earned immediate headlines and significantly improved his status in the NFL Draft. He was later selected by the Cincinnati Bengals as the ninth overall pick. Despite battling injuries early in his career, his speed made him a highly sought-after prospect.
Other Notable Performances
While Ross holds the record, several other players have posted historically fast times at the NFL Combine. Below is a list of some of the fastest 40-yard dash times ever recorded:
- Chris Johnson (4.24 seconds) – 2008: The former Tennessee Titans running back used his blistering speed to become one of the most electric playmakers in the NFL.
- Rondel Menendez (4.24 seconds) – 1999: Although Menendez tied Johnson’s time, he never made a significant impact in the NFL.
- DJ Turner II (4.26 seconds) – 2023: A cornerback prospect who impressed scouts with his elite speed.
- Marquise Goodwin (4.27 seconds) – 2013: A dual-sport athlete who was also an Olympic long jumper.
How the 40-Yard Dash is Measured
The 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine is measured using electronic timing equipment to ensure precision. The timing process includes:
- Hand Start: The timing begins using a laser system triggered when the prospect starts moving.
- Split Times: Scouts also track split times at 10 yards and 20 yards, helping measure acceleration.
- Finish Line: The laser stops when the player crosses the 40-yard mark, recording the official time.
The Impact on Draft Stock
Speed is a valuable asset in football, but the 40-yard dash is not the sole determinant of a player’s NFL success. Some players post incredible times but struggle with game-time performance, while others with average speed excel due to football IQ and skill.
For example, Hall of Fame receivers such as Jerry Rice and Larry Fitzgerald were not known for exceptional 40 times, yet they had legendary careers due to their route-running, hands, and football awareness.
Conclusion
The 40-yard dash remains one of the most exciting and widely discussed drills at the NFL Combine. While John Ross holds the record at 4.22 seconds, every year, new prospects attempt to rewrite history. Though speed is a valuable tool, true NFL success depends on a combination of athleticism, skill, and on-field intelligence.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who holds the record for the fastest 40-yard dash at the NFL Combine?
John Ross holds the record with a time of 4.22 seconds, set in 2017.
Has anyone ever beaten John Ross’s record?
No, as of now, Ross’s 4.22-second mark remains the official fastest time recorded at the NFL Combine.
Why is the 40-yard dash important?
The drill is used to assess a player’s speed and acceleration, which are critical for positions like wide receiver, running back, and cornerback.
Is a fast 40-yard dash the only factor scouts consider?
No, while speed is important, scouts also evaluate players based on skills, football IQ, and game-time performance.
What position typically records the fastest 40-yard dash times?
Wide receivers and cornerbacks generally post the fastest times due to the speed requirements of their positions.
