Day 3 of the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine featured quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers — and speed dominated the conversation inside Lucas Oil Stadium. Several prospects elevated their draft stock with elite athletic testing, while others failed to separate themselves in a deep offensive class.

Running Backs


Risers:


Mike Washington Jr. stole the spotlight with a blazing 4.33-second 40-yard dash, showcasing rare speed for his size and reinforcing his big-play potential in zone-running schemes. Notre Dame's Jeremiyah Love also impressed, displaying explosive acceleration and natural receiving ability during drills, boosting his projection as a three-down back.

Faller:

J'Mari Taylor delivered average testing numbers and lacked standout explosiveness, prompting evaluators to search for elite traits.

Wide Receivers


Risers:

Chris Brazzell II confirmed his size-speed combination by running in the 4.3 range at nearly 6-foot-5, flashing vertical-threat upside. Oklahoma teammates Deion Burks and Brenen Thompson also turned heads, with Thompson posting one of the fastest times of the day and Burks showing elite short-area burst.


Fallers:

Malachi Fields, Denzel Boston, and Elijah Surratt failed to stand out athletically in a historically fast receiver group, slowing their momentum heading into pro days.

Quarterbacks


Risers:

Taylen Green delivered one of the most impressive athletic performances of the combine, posting elite explosion numbers alongside a sub-4.4 forty, highlighting rare dual-threat ability. Carson Beck impressed during throwing drills, showing strong timing and accuracy, strengthening his case as a pro-ready passer.

Faller:


Drew Allar's inconsistent ball placement during workouts reinforced preexisting concerns about accuracy and mechanics.

Final Thought


Day 3 emphasized athletic upside — a key trait for teams like the 49ers, who prioritize speed and versatility within Kyle Shanahan's offense. Several prospects likely played their way onto San Francisco's draft radar heading into the next phase of evaluation.

Written By:

Wayne "Breezie" Brown


Wayne Breezie is a 49ers content creator. He had his first guest appearance on Ronbosports in 2012. He began writing for a Facebook group called the League of the 49ers. Next, he began writing for Nothing But Niners in 2017. In 2018, Wayne Breezie made his debut on YouTube’s Nothing But Niners show. In 2019, he started his podcast called Nitty Gritty Niners. After putting the pen down for several years, Breezie saw an opportunity to write for 49erscap.com. His first published article was in January of 2022 with 49ersCap, and he currently writes and produces weekly podcasts.
All articles by Wayne "Breezie" Brown
@TheWayneBreezie
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