How will the running backs for Ohio State football fare in the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine?

As the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine approaches, all eyes will be on Ohio State’s running backs, who are poised to make their mark in one of the most important drills for position players—the 40-yard dash. For running backs, this sprint is not just a test of pure speed, but a showcase of explosiveness, agility, and athleticism, which are all critical traits for success in the NFL. Ohio State has been known for producing top-tier running backs, and this year, the combine will provide an opportunity to see how the Buckeyes’ talent stacks up against some of the best in the country.

The 40-yard dash is one of the marquee events at the NFL Scouting Combine, often used to gauge the raw speed and burst of a player. The results from this drill can have a significant impact on a prospect’s draft stock, as scouts and general managers look for running backs who can break away from defenders and make explosive plays. In this article, we will examine how Ohio State’s running backs are expected to perform in the 40-yard dash at the combine, considering their individual strengths, training, and the factors that contribute to a successful time.

Ohio State’s Legacy of Producing Elite Running Backs

Before diving into the specifics of the upcoming NFL Scouting Combine, it’s important to understand the tradition of excellence at the running back position for Ohio State. The Buckeyes have consistently produced some of the most talented running backs in college football history. From Archie Griffin, the only two-time Heisman Trophy winner, to more recent stars like Ezekiel Elliott, J.K. Dobbins, and Master Teague, Ohio State has been home to some of the game’s top players at the position.

Ezekiel Elliott, who was drafted by the Dallas Cowboys with the fourth overall pick in 2016, was one of the most electric running backs to come through Ohio State in recent memory. Elliott ran an impressive 4.47-second 40-yard dash at the combine, showcasing both his speed and power. Dobbins, a key contributor to Ohio State’s success, ran a 4.47-second time in the 40-yard dash during his combine, which solidified his status as one of the top running backs in the 2020 NFL Draft. As Ohio State continues to churn out top-tier talent at the position, this year’s running back prospects will be under intense scrutiny to perform at the highest level.

The Running Backs Competing for the Spotlight

In the 2025 NFL Draft class, Ohio State has a few notable running back prospects who will likely compete for attention at the combine. These players have been key contributors to the Buckeyes’ offense and have shown significant potential to succeed at the next level. The primary running backs vying for attention in the 40-yard dash are:

1. Travon Henderson: The most well-known and highly anticipated running back prospect from Ohio State, Henderson has been a mainstay in the Buckeyes’ backfield since his freshman year. Known for his explosive speed and ability to break off long runs, Henderson has been one of the most dynamic players in the Big Ten. His combination of speed, vision, and agility make him a potential first-round talent. As the focal point of Ohio State’s offense, he will be looking to prove that his speed and athleticism translate well to the NFL.
2. Miyan Williams: A powerful and physical running back, Williams has impressed scouts with his ability to gain tough yards between the tackles. While he might not have the same top-end speed as Henderson, his burst and agility have earned him a spot among the top running back prospects in the draft. Williams’ performance in the 40-yard dash will be crucial in determining where he fits among the various backs in his class.
3. Evan Pryor: Pryor is another Ohio State running back who has shown flashes of brilliance during his time in Columbus. A player with solid speed and a strong work ethic, Pryor has been in competition for carries behind Henderson and Williams. While not yet as polished as some of the other top running backs in the country, Pryor has the potential to surprise at the combine with a strong performance in the 40-yard dash, proving that his raw speed can make him a viable prospect for NFL teams looking for depth in their backfield.

Factors Affecting the 40-Yard Dash Performance

The 40-yard dash may seem like a straightforward sprint, but for running backs, several factors will influence how they perform. Running back prospects must combine raw speed with excellent form, burst off the line of scrimmage, and the ability to hit top speed quickly. Here are a few key factors that will play a role in how Ohio State’s running backs fare in the 40-yard dash at the combine:

1. Acceleration and First Step

For a running back, the ability to accelerate quickly out of the blocks is crucial. A strong first step can be the difference between running a sub-4.4-second 40-yard dash and getting stuck in the mid-4.5-second range. The burst off the line of scrimmage is often the most important aspect of a running back’s 40-yard time, as NFL teams are looking for players who can explode through the hole and outpace defenders in the open field.

Travon Henderson, in particular, is known for his explosive acceleration. His ability to hit top speed in just a few steps makes him one of the most dangerous players in college football. If he can replicate that same burst at the combine, there’s a good chance he’ll run one of the fastest 40-yard dashes among running back prospects.

Miyan Williams, on the other hand, is more of a power runner, but he still has enough burst to make plays in the open field. His acceleration may not be as impressive as Henderson’s, but his strength and ability to churn out yards after contact are assets that can still impress scouts, even if his 40-yard dash time isn’t as eye-popping.

2. Form and Technique

Running backs need to maintain proper form and technique throughout the 40-yard dash. While raw speed is important, running with good posture and control can help maintain speed while reducing the risk of injury. Running backs who tend to lean too far forward or show inefficient mechanics during their sprints risk slowing down as they tire.

The training leading up to the combine is essential for helping Ohio State’s running backs improve their form in the 40-yard dash. Good form helps maintain speed throughout the race, especially in the final 20 yards. Henderson, with his elite speed, will need to ensure that his technique is sharp enough to maintain top-end velocity throughout the full 40 yards. Miyan Williams, while not possessing elite breakaway speed, will need to make sure his form and mechanics allow him to keep pace with quicker players, compensating with raw power and acceleration.

3. Strength and Power

For running backs, strength plays a significant role in their overall speed and acceleration. A running back with a powerful lower body can get off the line faster and maintain speed as they hit the 20-yard mark. Explosive strength and lower body power help with initial acceleration, while overall leg strength helps sustain speed through the final stretch.

While Henderson’s top-end speed is likely to shine through during the 40-yard dash, Williams’ physicality and power will be his biggest assets. He may not have the same burst as Henderson, but his raw power can give him an edge in drills that require sustained speed and endurance. Williams’ ability to generate force from his legs will help him finish the 40-yard dash strong, which could prove crucial in impressing scouts.

4. Training and Preparation

Leading up to the combine, Ohio State’s running backs have likely undergone intense training and preparation. Speed training, agility drills, and strength conditioning are all designed to improve a player’s 40-yard dash time. Given Ohio State’s world-class strength and conditioning program, it’s expected that Henderson, Williams, and Pryor will be well-prepared for the combine.

Running backs typically spend several months refining their sprinting technique, maximizing their acceleration, and fine-tuning their form. This preparation could play a crucial role in how each of Ohio State’s running backs fares in the 40-yard dash.

Expected 40-Yard Dash Times for Ohio State’s Running Backs

Based on their respective skill sets, the 40-yard dash times for Ohio State’s running backs will vary. Here’s what we can expect from each player:

1. Travon Henderson: With his elite speed and quick acceleration, Henderson is expected to clock in with one of the fastest times among the running backs at the combine. Given his 4.4-second 40-yard dash potential, Henderson could run somewhere in the 4.3-4.4 range, putting him in the conversation for the fastest back at the event.
2. Miyan Williams: While Williams might not be as fast as Henderson, he has enough burst and power to post a respectable time. Expect Williams to run a 4.5 to 4.6-second 40-yard dash. His strength and physicality will be his standout traits, and he may focus on showcasing his endurance and power rather than raw speed.
3. Evan Pryor: Pryor may not have the same national recognition as Henderson or Williams, but he still has enough speed and potential to surprise scouts. He could post a 4.4 to 4.5-second 40-yard dash time, showing that he belongs among the elite athletes in this draft class.