DeZhaun Stribling's 40-Yard Dash Time Sparks NFL Draft Buzz

Washington State wide receiver DeZhaun Stribling has become a trending topic after his 40-yard dash time at Friday's pro day drew attention from NFL scouts. The 6'3" junior clocked an unofficial 4.38 seconds, significantly faster than his projected time, potentially boosting his draft stock ahead of next week's selection process.

Stribling's performance comes at a critical moment, with the 2026 NFL Draft beginning Thursday in Detroit. His improved speed measurement could make him a mid-round target for teams seeking big-bodied receivers with deep-threat capability. The unexpected result sent social media buzzing, with #Stribling40 trending on X (formerly Twitter) Friday afternoon.

NFL Network analyst Daniel Jeremiah called the time "a game-changer" for Stribling's evaluation. The receiver had been considered a potential Day 3 pick after catching 67 passes for 893 yards last season. His pro day showing may now push him into rounds 3-4 consideration, according to ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr.

The timing of Stribling's breakout performance explains its sudden popularity. With final draft evaluations being locked in this weekend, his 40 time represents one of the last major data points for teams. Several franchises needing receiver help, including the Carolina Panthers and New England Patriots, had scouts in attendance.

Stribling told reporters afterward he'd focused all offseason on improving his speed. "I knew I had another gear," he said. "Today was about proving I belong with the top guys." His college quarterback, Jaxon Potter, tweeted that Stribling had been "the fastest guy on our field all year."

Analysts note that while pro day times often run faster than combine results, Stribling's mark would have tied for third among receivers at February's NFL Scouting Combine. The athletic testing could ease concerns about his ability to separate from NFL cornerbacks, a key question in pre-draft evaluations.

As teams finalize their draft boards this weekend, Stribling's unexpected speed demonstration has become one of the draft's late-rising storylines. Whether it translates to an earlier selection will be revealed when the draft kicks off April 28 on ABC, ESPN and NFL Network.