What's the fastest NFL 40-yard dash of All-Time?

By Jason Bolton March 01, 2024 00:14 GMT+4 min read

The 40-yard dash is a key performance metric in American football, especially during the NFL Combine, where aspiring players showcase their speed and agility. Over the years, this event has seen some exceptional displays of athleticism, with a few individuals achieving remarkable feats in the 40-yard dash. In this article, we'll delve into the fastest NFL 40-yard dash times of all time, the athletes who set these records, and the significance of this feat in the world of NFL.

Evolution of Speed: The Fastest 40-Yard Dash Times

The 40-yard dash has been a staple event at the NFL Combine since 1987, and only a select few have managed to achieve extraordinary speeds. Here are the top 10 fastest 40-yard dash times of all time:

John Ross, Washington WR — 4.22 seconds (2017)
Kalon Barnes, Baylor CB — 4.23 seconds (2022)
Chris Johnson, East Carolina RB — 4.24 seconds (2008)
Rondel Menendez, Eastern Kentucky WR — 4.24 seconds (1999)
Dri Archer, Kent State RB — 4.26 seconds (2014)
Tariq Woolen, UTSA CB — 4.26 seconds (2022)
Jerome Mathis, Hampton WR — 4.26 seconds (2005)
Marquise Goodwin, Oklahoma WR — 4.27 seconds (2013)
Stanford Routt, Houston CB — 4.27 seconds (2005)
Henry Ruggs III, Alabama WR — 4.27 seconds (2020)

These remarkable performances highlight the exceptional speed and agility of these athletes, positioning them among the fastest in NFL history.

Positional Breakdown: Who Dominates the 40-Yard Dash?

The fastest 40-yard dash times predominantly originate from three positions: wide receivers, running backs, and cornerbacks. Since 1987, there have been only 18 sub-4.2 second 40-yard dashes at the NFL Combine, with the majority achieved by players from these positions.

Fastest 40-Yard Dash at Every Position

Quarterback: Michael Vick, Virginia — 4.33 seconds (2001)
Running Back: Chris Johnson, East Carolina — 4.24 seconds (2008)
Wide Receiver: John Ross, Washington — 4.22 seconds (2017)
Tight End: Vernon Davis, Maryland — 4.38 seconds (2006)
Offensive Tackle: Terron Armstead, Arkansas Pine-Bluff — 4.71 seconds (2013)
Interior Offensive Lineman: Chris Chester, Oklahoma — 4.83 seconds (2006)
Defensive Tackle: Milton Williams, Louisiana Tech — 4.67 seconds (2021)
Edge Rusher: Amare Barno, Virginia Tech — 4.36 seconds (2022)
Linebacker: Shaquem Griffin, Central Florida — 4.38 seconds (2018)
Cornerback: Kalon Barnes, Baylor — 4.23 seconds (2022)
Safety: Zedrick Woods, Ole Miss — 4.29 seconds (2019)
Punter: Mitch Wishnowsky, Utah — 4.63 seconds (2019)
Kicker: Michael Badgley, Miami — 4.94 seconds (2018)

This breakdown underscores the emphasis on speed and agility across various positions in American football.

Significance of the 40-Yard Dash

The 40-yard dash serves as a pivotal measure of an athlete's speed, explosiveness, and overall athleticism. While a strong performance in the 40-yard dash doesn't guarantee success in the NFL, it undeniably showcases an individual's physical prowess and can significantly impact their draft stock and overall career trajectory. The ability to cover ground quickly is highly sought after in the NFL, making the 40-yard dash a crucial aspect of a player's evaluation.

Impact on Draft Stock and Career Trajectory

Players who achieve exceptional times in the 40-yard dash often witness a surge in their draft stock, attracting the attention of scouts, coaches, and team executives. This heightened visibility can lead to improved opportunities and potentially lucrative contracts, setting the stage for a promising NFL career. Additionally, speed is a coveted asset in various positions, with fast players often enjoying an edge over their competitors in critical game situations.

The Quest for New Records: Looking Ahead

As the NFL Combine continues to be a platform for athletes to display their physical abilities, the quest for breaking records and achieving unparalleled speeds remains a focal point. With each new batch of prospects entering the Combine, there is palpable anticipation surrounding the emergence of new record-holders and the possibility of witnessing extraordinary feats in the 40-yard dash. The NFL community eagerly awaits the next wave of athletic prodigies who could potentially shatter existing records and redefine the standards of speed in American football.

The fastest NFL 40-yard dash of all time stands as a testament to the extraordinary athleticism and speed displayed by a select group of individuals. While the 40-yard dash is just one aspect of a player's overall skill set, it undeniably holds significant value in the realm of NFL scouting, drafting, and player evaluation.

The remarkable performances showcased by the likes of John Ross, Chris Johnson, and Kalon Barnes serve as a source of inspiration for aspiring athletes and a source of admiration for fans of the sport. As the NFL continues to evolve, the pursuit of speed and agility remains a constant, ensuring that the 40-yard dash will continue to be a centerpiece of the NFL Combine and a symbol of elite athleticism in American football.