At the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, Notre Dame running back Jeremiyah Love outpaced Philadelphia Eagles running back Saquon Barkley in a simulated 40-yard dash race. This event captured attention by showcasing Love’s speed directly against Barkley’s, offering a rare side-by-side comparison.
Official 40-Yard Dash Performances at the Combine
Jeremiyah Love posted an official time of 4.36 seconds in the 40-yard dash, demonstrating his quickness and athleticism. Other notable backs included Arkansas Razorbacks’ Mike Washington Jr., who recorded a swift 4.33-second run, and Wake Forest’s Demond Claiborne with a strong 4.37-second effort. Navy’s Eli Heidenreich clocked a time of 4.44 seconds, while Alabama’s Jam Miller finished in 4.42 seconds.
Notre Dame’s Jadarian Price completed his 40-yard dash in 4.50 seconds, and Kentucky’s Seth McGowan posted a 4.49-second dash. Clemson’s Adam Randall ran a 4.50-second time, while Texas-San Antonio’s Robert Henry Jr. recorded a 4.52-second run. Nebraska Cornhuskers’ Emmett Johnson finished with a 4.56-second sprint.
Speed and Athleticism Standouts During the Combine
Besides the raw 40-yard dash times, several players showed impressive explosion metrics. Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. recorded a remarkable 10-foot 8-inch broad jump and a 39-inch vertical leap. South Carolina’s Rahsul Faison managed a 10-foot 2-inch broad jump along with a 37.5-inch vertical jump. Kentucky’s Seth McGowan excelled with a 10-foot 11-inch broad jump and an outstanding 42.5-inch vertical.
Comparisons and Player Evaluations from NFL Analysts
NFL Network analysts provided meaningful context by comparing prospects to current and former NFL players. Daniel Jeremiah likened Jeremiyah Love’s playing style to that of former NFL running back DeMarco Murray, highlighting Love’s blend of power and speed. Jeremiah also drew parallels between Notre Dame’s Jadarian Price and Tennessee Titans’ Toni Pollard, emphasizing Price’s explosiveness and agility.
Oregon’s Noah Whittington was compared by Jeremiah to Devonta Freeman, reflecting a similar running approach and versatility. Arkansas running back Mike Washington Jr. earned a comparison from Charles Davis to Los Angeles Chargers back Omarion Hampton, based on Washington’s quick acceleration and combine metrics.
Emotional Reaction and Offfield Insights
NFL Network’s Stacey Dales reported on Mike Washington Jr.’s emotional response to his 4.33-second 40-yard dash at the combine, noting that the Arkansas running back “broke down in tears” after the run, reflecting the significance of the moment for him and his draft prospects. Meanwhile, Los Angeles Chargers’ general manager Joe Hortiz discussed his team’s offseason plans, offering insights into how this pool of running backs might influence team strategies moving forward.
LSU Tigers quarterback Garrett Nussmeier also shared information about overcoming an abdominal injury before making his 2026 NFL Scouting Combine debut, showcasing the level of preparedness players bring to the event.
Significance of Combine Results and What to Expect Next
The 2026 NFL Scouting Combine continues to highlight rising talent with speed and athleticism crucial for success at the professional level. Jeremiyah Love’s ability to outperform an established NFL star like Saquon Barkley in a simulated race enhances his draft stock and illustrates the depth of skill among this year’s prospects. Mike Washington Jr.’s standout performance and high emotional stakes underscore the intense pressure players face as they transition to the NFL.
These combine performances provide teams critical data to evaluate players’ athletic traits and potential fit, influencing the 2026 NFL Draft decisions. As teams like the Los Angeles Chargers assess their offseason plans, these evaluations will shape roster moves and draft selections throughout the spring.
