Welcome to Draft Season
The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine officially began on Thursday, marking the start of an exciting period for football enthusiasts and scouting aficionados alike. This year, 329 NFL prospects have been invited to Indianapolis, each with the goal of elevating their draft status through a series of rigorous drills and evaluations. While the players started arriving at Lucas Oil Stadium earlier in the week, the main event—the physical drills—got underway on Thursday. These exercises, including the 40-yard dash, bench press, vertical jump, broad jump, and 3-cone drill, are crucial in showcasing the athletes’ physical prowess and potential. Here’s a quick look at the schedule for each position as they participate in the highly anticipated workouts:
The Week’s Lineup
- Thursday, Feb. 27: Defensive line and linebackers
- Friday, Feb. 28: Defensive backs and tight ends
- Saturday, March 1: Quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers
- Sunday, March 2: Offensive line
Fans are eagerly waiting to see how these players perform, as their results can significantly impact their draft prospects. However, not every future draft pick will be active in these exercises. Notably, Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders has decided to follow the latest trend and will wait to throw at his pro day. His college teammate, Heisman Trophy winner and two-way star Travis Hunter, also announced that he won’t be working out at the combine. Despite these absences, the stage is set for a thrilling week of performances and records.
Fashion Meets Football
The combine isn’t just about physical prowess; it’s also a platform for players to showcase their unique personalities and style. One standout from the fashion perspective is South Carolina linebacker Demetrius Knight II. He didn’t just wear any regular Adidas cleats during his 40-yard dash; he donned custom-made Scrooge McDuck-themed cleats. His creative choice of footwear didn’t hinder his performance, as he clocked a time of 4.58 seconds, placing him in the top third at his position. It’s moments like these that add a touch of fun and personality to the otherwise intense atmosphere, making the combine a spectacle to watch. As Knight himself might say, "Race cars, lasers, aeroplanes, he’s a duck blur!"
Breaking Records in the 40-Yard Dash
One of the most anticipated events at the combine is the 40-yard dash, where speed and agility are put to the ultimate test. On Thursday, James Pearce Jr., an edge rusher from the University of Tennessee, made a significant statement by posting the fastest 40-yard dash of any defensive lineman, finishing in 4.47 seconds. For players in his position, a time under 4.50 is considered exceptional. Historically, Montez Sweat of the Washington Commanders ran a 4.41 in 2019, Odafe Oweh of the Baltimore Ravens ran 4.36 in 2021, and Amare Barno of the Carolina Panthers matched that in 2022. Pearce’s time is even faster than some of the skill players who helped their teams win the Super Bowl, such as Jalen Hurts and A.J. Brown, as seen in the comparison below. His performance has certainly caught the attention of scouts and fans alike, setting a high bar for the rest of the week.
Impressive Displays from the Big Men
While speed is critical, strength and agility are equally important, especially for the big men on the defensive line. Derrick Harmon, a 313-pound defensive tackle from Oregon, impressed with a 4.95-second 40-yard dash. His time was so impressive that it drew comparisons to Kansas City Chiefs star Chris Jones, known for his exceptional athleticism and power. Harmon’s performance is a testament to the fact that size doesn’t necessarily diminish speed, and his combination of physical attributes could make him a valuable asset for any team looking to bolster their defensive front. The combine often brings surprises, and Harmon’s showing is a perfect example of how some players can exceed expectations and stand out in their evaluations.
Shemar Stewart: A Versatile Wonder
One of the most versatile performers at the combine so far is Shemar Stewart, an edge rusher from Texas A&M. Stewart put together a thoroughly impressive overall performance, wowing scouts and fans with his athletic abilities. He achieved a 40-inch vertical jump, a 4.59-second 40-yard dash, and a Relative Athletic Score (RAS) of 10.00, unofficially making him one of the most athletically gifted players in the combine. At 6-foot-5 and 267 pounds, Stewart’s vertical jump is particularly noteworthy, as he is only the fourth player in two decades to reach 40 inches in the vertical jump while weighing 260 pounds or more. However, his best performance came in the broad jump, where he led all participants with a stunning 10-foot, 11-inch leap, showcasing perfect form and explosive power. Stewart’s all-around performance is a strong indicator of his potential to make a significant impact at the next level.
Stay Tuned for More Updates
As the combine progresses, we will continue to track the top performers and the best moments from each day. The NFL Scouting Combine is a pivotal event in the draft process, providing a platform for players to showcase their skills and for teams to evaluate potential draft picks. From the fastest 40-yard dashes to the most impressive broad jumps, every drill and every performance adds a layer of excitement and anticipation to the draft season. Whether you’re a die-hard fan or just a curious observer, the combine is a must-watch event that offers a glimpse into the future of the NFL. Keep checking back for the latest updates and highlights, and don’t miss a moment of the action.
Follow the Action
If you want to stay up-to-date with all the action from the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, consider creating or logging into your FOX Sports account. By following your favorite leagues, teams, and players, you can receive a personalized newsletter every day, keeping you informed about games, news, and more. The combine is a key part of the NFL’s annual calendar, and staying connected to the latest developments can enhance your enjoyment and understanding of the draft process. So, whether you’re cheering for your team’s next star or simply enjoying the spectacle, the combine promises to be a week filled with memorable moments and thrilling performances.
