Speed has always been an essential skill in football. It can distinguish exceptional players from the rest and act as a true test of raw athleticism. At the 2025 Senior Bowl, many athletes are exhilarating fans and volunteers with their breakneck speed. These five athletes have flashed their wheels and secured their spots as top-tier athletes in the 2025 NFL Draft class.
Speed Demons at the Senior Bowl
1. USC CB Jaylin Smith – 21.61 MPH
Jaylin Smith’s jaw-dropping 21.61 mph speed showcased why the USC superstar corner is one of the highest-rated cornerback talents in this class. He can spot receivers and close gaps quickly, which makes him a defensive nightmare for opposing quarterbacks.
With a good performance in the Senior Bowl, he could boost his stock even more. Teams looking for an elite speedster will surely have the Trojans’ defensive back on their shortlists.
2. Washington State WR Kyle Williams – 21.36 MPH
Washington State Cougars wide receiver Kyle Williams booked an impressive speed of 21.36 mph this season. His blazing speed makes him a dynamic wide receiver, and his ability to attain separation from defenders makes him a serious threat in any offensive scheme.
In the Holiday Bowl matchup against Syracuse, Williams grabbed 10 passes for 172 yards, breaking Dez Bryant’s single-game receiving yards record for the bowl game.
3. Iowa State CB Darien Porter – 21.26 MPH
Iowa State’s Darien Porter blazes through backfields at 21.26 mph and promotes extraordinary speed depth at the cornerback position. He can stick with the fastest receivers, and his flexibility and bursts make him a valuable defender.
4. Virginia S Jonas Sanker – 20.84 MPH
Safety Jonas Sanker showcased his phenomenal range with 20.84 mph speed during his season with the Virginia Cavaliers. He can close in on ball carriers and cover ground in the secondary in an instant. His performance shows off his knack for playing both in pass- and run-game support, establishing him as a flexible defender with elite potential.
5. Oregon WR Tez Johnson – 20.64 MPH
Tez Johnson’s 20.64 mph acceleration has secured his place as a blazing-fast wide receiver in this draft class. He’ll be difficult to tackle in 1-on-1 situations, and he has the route-running abilities and top-end explosion to force secondaries to play at a deeper level.
The Ducks pass catcher has the potential to become one of the most entertaining playmakers at the next level. His swiftness will undoubtedly make him a desirable asset in the upcoming draft.
MORE ON THE SENIOR BOWL: How To Watch the 2025 Senior Bowl Game
The Senior Bowl has long been an established part of the NFL Draft process, acknowledging some of the game’s best athletes.
Several cornerbacks and safeties registered top speeds, highlighting an upsurge of defensive talent eager to face the league’s greatest receivers. Meanwhile, receivers like Williams and Johnson showed off their ability to create separation and open up the field.
College Football Network has you covered with the latest from the ACC, Big Ten, Big 12, SEC, and every Group of Five conference and FBS Independent program.
