7 Fastest 40-yard dash times in NFL Combine history

3. Rondel Menendez, WR 4.24 seconds (1999)

Before Chris Johnson’s 4.24-second mark, there was Rondel Menendez the 1999 NFL combine. Despite his impressive showing, Menendez went undrafted that year, but he did sign with the Atlanta Falcons and played in seven games for the team that season. However, his NFL career was short-lived, and he retired from professional football in 2000.

2. Kalon Barnes, CB, 4.23 seconds (2022)

A record was almost broken, but as we all know, almost doesn’t count. Kalon Barnes is a talented cornerback with incredible speed, as evidenced by his 4.23 40-yard dash time at the NFL Combine. However, he has some weaknesses in his game, including poor eye discipline and a tendency to get beaten on inside routes. He was taken by the Carolina Panthers in the 7th round of the 2022 NFL Draft. He also struggles with strength in the run game and can be an inconsistent tackler, which is probably why he ended up being cut and then signed by the Minnesota Vikings. Still, he’s the second-fastest man in NFL Combine history.

1. John Ross, WR, 4.22 seconds (2017)

And the reigning, defending, undisputed fastest man in NFL Combine history is John Ross, clocking in at an astonishing 4.22 seconds. He was selected ninth overall by the Cincinnati Bengals in that year’s draft. However, his professional career has been plagued by injuries, limiting his playing time and productivity. Despite his blazing speed, Ross has struggled to establish himself as a consistent threat on the field.