The 2019 NFL Fastest Man Competition highlighted elite speed as teams measured raw acceleration and route-breaking ability. This annual event combined technology and athleticism, showcasing players who thrive in space and on timing routes.
Below is a structured overview of the event, including combine metrics, official times, and notable performers from the 2019 edition.
| Player | Team | 40 Yard Time (seconds) | 20 Yard Split (seconds) | 10 Yard Split (seconds) | tr>Player | Team | 40 Yard Time (seconds) | 20 Yard Split (seconds) | 10 Yard Split (seconds) |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| John Ross III | Cincinnati Bengals | 4.22 | 2.62 | 1.62 | |||||
| Titus Davis | Chicago Bears | 4.32 | 2.65 | 1.58 | |||||
| Deebo Samuel | San Francisco 49ers | 4.31 | 2.64 | 1.60 | |||||
| Kelvin Benjamin | Buffalo Bills | 4.31 | 2.68 | 1.61 | |||||
| Marquise Brown | Baltimore Ravens | 4.34 | 2.67 | 1.62 | tbody>
FAQ
Reader questions
How is the 40 yard dash time measured at the combine?
Officials use precise electronic timing gates that start when the athlete breaks the first beam and stop when they cross the finish line, minimizing human error and capturing accurate splits.
Which players benefit most from elite straight line speed?
Slot receivers, vertical stretch receivers, and edge players who rely on one-on-one separation gain a competitive edge when they can sustain top speed into routes and open windows in coverage.
Can a strong 40 yard dash guarantee success in the NFL?
While a quick time signals athletic potential, route precision, release moves, and coverage awareness remain essential for turning raw speed into consistent production at the professional level.
How do teams use combine speed data during the draft?
Scouts combine 40 yard times with film study to evaluate how speed translates to route running, depth in the secondary, and red zone leverage, shaping draft rankings and contract expectations for prospects.