Most impressive NFL Combine performances in history

As the NFL Combine kicks off once again, draft prospects are putting their speed, agility, and strength to the test, attempting to impress NFL teams with their athleticism.

Occasionally, certain prospects shine far brighter than the rest, delivering historically stellar performances.

Here, DAZN News looks at the best NFL Combine performances ever.

2024, Xavier Worthy, Wide Receiver

There have been better all-around performances in the history of the NFL Combine. Still, Worthy deserves recognition for breaking the seven-year-old record in the 40-yard dash, undoubtedly the most-watched event at the NFL Combine.

His performance in other drills should not be overlooked. Worthy also finished fifth among wide receivers with a 10' 11" broad jump and fifth in the vertical leap with a figure of 41".

Worthy's incredible athleticism led to being selected by the Kansas City Chiefs, where he starred during their playoff run.

2012, Dontari Poe, Defensive Tackle

At 346 pounds, many expected Poe to be one of the strongest players at the 2012 NFL Combine, but he still exceeded expectations after leading all players with 44 reps in the bench press.

What was more surprising was his speed in the 40-yard dash.

Despite being one of the heaviest defensive tackles ever to participate in an NFL Combine and the heaviest in the 2012 draft class, Poe's 40-yard dash time ranked seventh among his position group. It was comparable to that of players over 100 pounds lighter.

2010, Tim Tebow, Quarterback

Tim Tebow was renowned for his athletic ability after breaking several rushing records in a glittering college career with the Florida Gators, and his explosiveness was on full display at the 2010 NFL Combine.

The former Heisman winner finished first among all quarterbacks with a time of 6.66 in the 3-cone drill, and his 4.17 shuttle time also led his position group.

Tebow's 38.5" vertical jump was among the best of any player, regardless of position, and his 9' 7" broad jump ranked third.

Ultimately, despite his athleticism, Tebow had a disappointing NFL career because he failed to overcome deficiencies in his throwing motion.

2008, Vernon Gholston, Edge Defender

Gholston dominated the 2008 NFL Combine and saw his draft stock skyrocket.

The Ohio State product finished first among all edge defenders in several categories, recording 35.5" in the vertical jump, 10' 5" in the broad jump, 37 reps in the bench press, and a 4.65-second 40-yard dash.

Gholston's performance ranked him among the most physically gifted edge defenders ever recorded in Relative Athletic Score (RAS).

Despite being a standout performer at the Combine, Gholston played only three years in the NFL, which provides a cautionary tale for NFL teams that place too much emphasis on athleticism.

2006, Vernon Davis, Tight End

Davis produced an eye-popping display at the 2006 NFL Combine, arguably the best performance by a tight end ever.

At 6' 3" and 254 pounds, Davis finished first in his position group in the 40-yard dash, vertical jump, broad jump, and bench press.

Already recognised as an accomplished pass catcher, Davis' incredible performance at the NFL Combine led to being selected sixth overall in the 2006 NFL Draft.

Davis went on to play 15 seasons in the NFL, recording  63 touchdowns and over 7,500 yards.

Other Honourable Mentions

2008, Chris Johnson, Running Back

Johnson tied the record in the 40-yard dash after recording a time of 4.24 seconds. He also performed well in the broad jump and vertical jump.

1995, Mike Mamula, Edge Defender

Mamula recorded a 38" vertical leap, achieved 26 reps on the bench press, and posted an impressive 4.58-second 40-yard dash.

1986, Bo Jackson, Quarterback

Although not recorded as an official time, Jackson ran a hand-timed 4.12 seconds in the 40-yard dash in the regional event. If the time were official, Jackson would still hold the record today.

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