By Eric Edholm, Lead Draft Writer
The 2024 NFL Scouting Combine provided one of the more memorable moments in the event’s recent history with Xavier Worthy‘s record-setting 40-yard dash.
Worthy nearly blew the roof off the Lucas Oil Stadium dome a year ago, running a 4.21-second 40, which barely edged John Ross‘ official record (4.22) set in 2017. It brought a little juice back to the event and helped vault Worthy into a terrific rookie season for the Kansas City Chiefs, who traded up to draft him late in Round 1 in 2024.
It also set the bar even higher for the 2025 prospects. Can any of them threaten Worthy’s mark this year? It’s going to be tough, especially as some top competitors, such as Boise State running back Ashton Jeanty, have already bowed out of testing.
Of the 329 prospects invited to Indianapolis this week, most if not all will have zero shot of chasing Worthy’s mark. According to NFL Research, just 20 players have run sub-4.30-second times in the 40-yard dash since 2003. Two 2024 combine participants hit that mark: Worthy and cornerback Nate Wiggins, who ended up being drafted by the Baltimore Ravens two picks after Worthy in Round 1.
Realistically, the eventual 40-yard champ this year will come from one of three positions: wide receiver, defensive back and running back. Of the 20 sub-4.3 runners, nine were receivers, nine were defensive backs and two were running backs. That said, there is one 2025 prospect who plays a different position who has a chance — teaser! — but it’s going to be hard for him, or anyone in this year’s class, to take down Worthy’s mark.
Here are the 17 prospects who have the best chance to win the event this year, even if they can’t set a new record. Fear not: The top guys will be plenty fast.