Texas Longhorns’ Jahdae Barron turned heads with an outstanding 4.39-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine, while East Texas A&M’s defensive back, Kendall Paul, clocked a blazing 4.23 seconds — at his pro day.
A Speed Battle for the Ages
Texas’ Barron has been a rising name in NFL scouting circles, and his 4.39-second 40-yard dash only reinforced his stock as one of the fastest defensive backs in the 2025 draft class. The former Longhorn showcased elite acceleration and smooth running mechanics, making a strong case to be a top draft pick.
Scouts have praised Barron’s football IQ, versatility, and ability to play cornerback and safety, but this level of speed adds a whole new element to his draft profile.
Just when it seemed like Barron had stolen the show, Paul—whose name is already making waves in scouting circles—shattered expectations with an unreal 4.23-second 40-yard dash.
The time puts him among the fastest players in the draft, drawing immediate comparisons to Xavier Worthy’s record-setting 4.21-second time in 2024. NFL teams needing an elite speedster in the secondary are now scrambling to get more information on the standout from the small-school program.
How This Impacts Draft Stock
Barron was already projected to be a mid-to-late Day 2 pick (Rounds 2-3), but his impressive combine performance could push him into early second-round conversations.
Scouts will now look at:
- Game film to assess his closing speed in coverage
- Pro Day workouts to confirm his agility and change of direction
- Interviews to gauge his football intelligence and scheme fit
A small-school prospect skyrockets up draft boards every year after a stellar Combine. With a 4.23-second 40-yard dash, this East Texas A&M defensive back has forced teams to take notice.
KEEP READING: Jahdae Barron Labeled “Best Pure DB” After NFL Combine
Some NFL teams that could be intrigued by his elite speed and raw athleticism include:
- Kansas City Chiefs – Always looking for explosive athletes on defense
- Dallas Cowboys – Could use an injection of speed in the secondary
- Seattle Seahawks – Have a history of developing under-the-radar DBs
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