Will Payton Wilson Be One of the Fastest Linebackers in the History of the NFL Combine?

Former NC State Linebacker Payton Wilson will participate at the NFL Combine this afternoon. Yesterday, on the podium at the Combine, Wilson said that he wanted to be “one of the most athletic” Linebackers to every come through the combine.

Out of all of the events at the Combine, the 40-yard dash is the most noteworthy. There is no denying Wilson’s speed. Against Notre Dame this season, Wilson was clocked running 23.7 mpg chasing down a player.

At the Senior Bowl last month, Wilson said he would be happy with a 4.45 at the Combine.

Here’s a look at the three fastest 40 times by Linebackers in NFL Combine history:

1) Shaquem Griffin, UCF (2018): 4.38 40-yard dash

T-2) Isaiah Simmons, Clemson (2020): 4.39 40-yard dash

T-2) Micah Parsons, Penn State (2021): 4.39 40-yard dash

Dantonio Burnette, NC State’s Director of Strength & Conditioning, told TheWolfpacker.com that he thinks Wilson could run a 4.39. Today after practice, Wolfpack Defensive Coordinator said he expects him to run in the low 4.4’s or high 4.3’s.

Tune into NFL Network at 3pm to see if Wilson makes history!