NFL Combine Speed King Emerges
Wide receiver Brenen Thompson stole the show at the NFL Combine, clocking the fastest 40-yard dash at 4.26 seconds on the final day of workouts. That blazing performance has immediately boosted his draft stock as teams prepare for April's draft. The combine's conclusion marks the real start of roster shake-ups, with free agency approaching and several prospects emerging as "winners" for their athleticism.
While Brenen Thompson's 4.26-second 40-yard dash was the fastest at this year's NFL Combine, it ties for the fifth-fastest time in the event's history. The all-time record is held by wide receiver Xavier Worthy, who ran a 4.21 in 2024. Thompson's time is level with defensive back DJ Turner (2023), cornerback Tariq Woolen (2022), and running back Dri Archer (2014). Thompson's journey to the combine involved three different schools. He began as a four-star recruit at Texas in 2022, where he had just one reception. He then transferred to Oklahoma for two seasons before moving to Mississippi State for a breakout 2025 campaign, where he recorded 57 catches for 1,054 yards and six touchdowns. Scouts praise Thompson for his elite speed and acceleration, which he uses to beat defenses vertically. His route-running and ability to change direction quickly also draw high marks, making him a significant threat after the catch. However, his smaller stature at 5-foot-9 and 170 pounds raises concerns about his physicality and durability at the professional level. Beyond the 40-yard dash, other prospects also created a buzz with their performances. Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. clocked the fastest time for his position at 4.33 seconds. His college teammate, quarterback Taylen Green, was the fastest signal-caller with a 4.36-second run. The conclusion of the combine signals a frantic period for NFL front offices. The league's new year and the official start of free agency begin at 4:00 p.m. New York time on March 11. Teams are permitted to begin negotiating with the agents of upcoming unrestricted free agents starting on March 9. This year's potential free-agent class includes notable names that could shift the league's landscape. Among the top players who could be available are Cowboys wide receiver George Pickens, Bengals defensive end Trey Hendrickson, and Ravens center Tyler Linderbaum.
