Indianapolis is buzzing as the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine strides into its second day, focusing the spotlight on defensive backs and tight ends. This annual event provides emerging talents the chance to either boost their draft stock or see it take a hit. Among those opting out of participating in drills were projected first-round picks such as WR/CB Travis Hunter, CB Will Johnson, and TE Tyler Warren. However, other players took full advantage of the stage, showing out with impressive performances.
Leading the pack, Kentucky cornerback Maxwell Hairston clocked the fastest 40-yard dash time of the combine thus far at an impressive 4.28 seconds. Despite this remarkable achievement, the 5-foot-11, 183-pound athlete was not completely satisfied, expressing that his time “isn’t enough.” He recorded a top speed of 24.25 mph, ranking it as the fifth-fastest over the past three combines. With Hairston training alongside notable talents, like Kansas City Chiefs WR Xavier Worthy, he could find himself rising in draft rankings.
In another standout showing, South Carolina safety Emmanwori made waves by achieving a jaw-dropping 43-inch vertical jump, tying as the third-best for safeties since recording began in 2003. His athleticism continued with an 11-foot, 6-inch broad jump and a speedy 4.38-second 40-yard dash. Initially projected as the No. 31 overall pick, Emmanwori’s stellar performance is certainly set to elevate his draft position.
On the tight end front, Ferguson emerged as the fastest with a 4.63-second 40-yard time and also displayed impressive explosiveness, jumping 39 inches vertically. However, Texas TE Gunnar Helm struggled, recording a slower 4.84-second dash and a disappointing 30-inch vertical, marking him down among his competitors.
Another noteworthy player, Starks, was projected as the first safety off the board but faced fierce competition from Emmanwori. While he demonstrated solid skills in drills, his 33-inch vertical jump and 4.5-second dash did not match up well against Emmanwori’s astounding results.
Overall, Day 2 of the NFL combine has brought excitement as athletes jockey for position in the upcoming draft. The performances showcased a mix of promise and potential challenges that could shape their futures in professional football.
