NFL’s 40-yard dash record nearly broken by SEC standout originally appeared on The Sporting News.
Add The Sporting News as a Preferred Source by clicking here.
Mississippi State wide receiver Brenen Thompson chased history at the NFL Combine on Saturday night. There was talk before the event about how much speed he put on tape and didn’t disappoint.
Two years after Xavier Worthy set the NFL record in the 40-yard dash, Thompson nearly matched history. He turned in a blazing 4.26 seconds at Lucas Oil Stadium, just .05 shy of Worthy’s 4.21 mark set in 2024.
Thompson’s official time tied for the fifth-fastest 40 in combine history and immediately sent his draft stock soaring. He entered the week with expectations of a strong showing after leading the SEC in receiving yards last season.
.@HailStateFB WR Brenen Thompson’s 4.26u is VERY close to @XavierWorthy‘s record-breaking 4.21 👀
2026 NFL Combine on @nflnetwork
Stream on @NFLPluspic.twitter.com/tPL2GajovJ
— NFL (@NFL) February 28, 2026
The MSU standout finished with 1,054 yards and averaged 18.5 yards per catch on 57 receptions, showcasing the vertical speed that translated seamlessly to Indianapolis.
More often than not, elite 40 times create momentum. Three of the previous five fastest performers at the position were first-round picks. For Thompson, this was his best resume booster.
More: One NFL team asked Fernando Mendoza to get arrested to slide in the NFL Draft
Mississippi State struggled to a 5-8 record in 2025, but Thompson’s individual production stood out. Now the question shifts from how fast he can run to how high he can climb. After a near-record sprint, Thompson may have moved himself firmly into first-round consideration.
Oregon’s Dan Lanning rips College Football Playoff, calls for major changesDeion Sanders buyout, contract details as Colorado Buffaloes coachSteve Sarkisian blasts Ohio State players for not going to classNCAA targets exposed calves in latest proposed college football rule changeHigh school football recruits using AI-generated highlight tapes is on the rise
