Video: Texas’ Xavier Worthy Sets NFL Combine Record with 4.21-Second 40-Yard Dash

zach bacharContributor IMarch 2, 2024

Michael Hickey/Getty Images

Xavier Worthy showed off his blazing speed in historic fashion at the NFL combine on Saturday.

The Texas wide receiver posted an official time of 4.21 seconds in his second 40-yard dash attempt, besting John Ross III’s all-time mark (4.22 seconds) that was set in 2017.

NFL @NFLOFFICIAL: 4.21

XAVIER WORTHY HOLDS THE NEW 40-YARD DASH RECORD pic.twitter.com/IrXf3WyemB

Worthy’s time, which was initially clocked at an unofficial 4.22 seconds, impressed Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Patrick Mahomes, among other NFL superstars.

Patrick Mahomes II @PatrickMahomes😂😂😂 my bad 4.22…. https://t.co/LAEvPiHNty

Ty Hill @cheetah4.2 is crazy sheesh

Micah Parsons @MicahhParsons11Omg https://t.co/hjtq6nmmsj

The 20-year-old’s speed has been well documented, as he showcased game-breaking ability throughout the 2023 season.

According to Reel Analytics, Worthy reached a top speed of 22.7 mph during a punt return touchdown in Week 12 that was eventually called back due to a penalty. That represented the top mark among all college players in 2023.

For reference, Seattle Seahawks wideout D.K. Metcalf led all NFL players in the 2023 season with a top speed of 22.23 mph during a touchdown in the team’s clash with the Dallas Cowboys in Week 13.

Adam Schefter @AdamSchefterFastest 40 times in combine history:

🏈Xavier Worthy 4.21
🏈John Ross 4.22
🏈Kalon Barnes 4.23
🏈Chris Johnson 4.24
🏈Tariq Woolen 4.26
🏈Dri Archer 4.26
🏈Marquise Goodwin 4.27
🏈Henry Ruggs III 4.27
🏈Stanford Routt 4.27

In his last season with the Longhorns, Worthy hauled in 75 receptions for 1,014 yards and five touchdowns in 14 games. Bleacher Report’s NFL Scouting Department currently has him ranked as the No. 10 wide receiver and No. 57 overall player on its most recent big board.

B/R NFL Scout Derrik Klassen mentioned concerns with Worthy’s size despite pointing out his ability to take the top off opposing defenses.

“In the NFL, Worthy will be an auxiliary pass-catcher used to stretch the field and stress defenses horizontally at the line of scrimmage,” Klassen wrote. “However, given Worthy’s lack of size and overall inconsistency (especially with his hands), he has a high-risk, high-reward profile that may not be for everyone.”

The uneasiness regarding his size seems to be warranted, as Worthy measured in at just over 5’11” and 165 pounds at the combine. However, his record-breaking speed was on full display and will likely provide a boost to his draft stock.