The NFL scouting combine begins this week, and there is no more anticipated event at the combine than the 40-yard dash. The 40-yard dash showcases one of the most important traits that can't be taught in the NFL: speed.
There have been great players in the NFL that weren't fast—namely Tom Brady, who ran a famously slow 5.18 second 40 in 2000. Still, speed can be a massive advantage for many players, particularly wide receivers, running backs, and defensive backs, the three positions responsible for the fastest times in combine history.
