Day 3 of the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine was nothing short of electric as the next generation of quarterbacks, running backs, and wide receivers took the field. While some of the biggest names, like All-Americans Ashton Jeanty and Tetairoa McMillan, opted out of Saturday’s on-field workouts, there was still no shortage of jaw-dropping performances. The Carolina Panthers and every other NFL team had their eyes locked in, scouting for future stars who could make an impact at the next level. And believe me, there were some standout athletes who turned heads with their sheer speed, explosiveness, and agility.
Let’s break down four of the most impressive performances from the day.
Raheim Sanders, RB, South Carolina
If anyone needed a boost to their draft stock, Raheim Sanders delivered in a big way. The former Arkansas and South Carolina running back checked in at six feet tall and 217 pounds, bringing a powerful frame to the field. But it wasn’t just his size that caught scouts' attention—it was his speed. Sanders blazed through the 40-yard dash in 4.46 seconds, reaching a top speed of 23.55 mph, the fastest among all running backs in attendance.
With uncertainty looming over the Panthers' backfield—especially with Jonathon Brooks recovering from a second ACL tear and questions surrounding the future of Miles Sanders—Carolina may be in the market for a reliable No. 2 option behind Chuba Hubbard. Sanders proved in Indy that he has the blend of power and quickness that could make him a perfect mid-round target for any team needing depth in the run game.
Bhayshul Tuten, RB, Virginia Tech
If you didn’t know Bhayshul Tuten’s name before the Combine, you definitely do now. One of the most underrated prospects in this class, Tuten made some serious noise with a stellar all-around athletic performance.
The 5-foot-9, 206-pound back torched the 40-yard dash with a blazing 4.32-second time, the fastest among all running backs. But he didn’t stop there—Tuten also recorded the highest vertical jump at 40.5 inches and tied for the second-longest broad jump at 10 feet, 10 inches. His combination of speed, power, and explosiveness makes him a highly intriguing prospect.
With the Panthers needing a physical presence in short-yardage situations, Tuten could provide the perfect balance of burst and toughness to help Carolina’s offense move the chains when it matters most.
Matthew Golden, WR, Texas
If there was one wide receiver who turned up the heat in Lucas Oil Stadium, it was Matthew Golden. Coming into the event, he was already considered one of the better receiver prospects in this class, but he managed to elevate his stock even further.
Golden, who stands at 5 feet 11 inches and weighs 191 pounds, showcased his elite speed with a jaw-dropping 4.29-second 40-yard dash—the second-fastest time in the entire Combine. To put that into perspective, he reached a top speed of 23.57 mph, ranking second among all wideouts.
He’s known for his big-play ability, and after this showing, teams may start looking at him as a potential WR1 candidate. If there was ever a player who could take the top off a defense, it’s Golden, and his speed will make him a nightmare for secondaries at the next level.
Jaylin Noel, WR, Iowa State
While the first group of receivers had plenty of fireworks, Jaylin Noel made sure the second group didn’t go unnoticed. Noel left a lasting impression with his eye-popping athleticism and smooth route-running ability.
The Iowa State playmaker clocked in at 4.39 seconds in the 40-yard dash, but it was his vertical (41.5 inches) and broad jump (11 feet, two inches) that truly set him apart. Those were the best marks among all receivers, showing his elite explosiveness and ability to go up and get the football in contested situations.
With Carolina in desperate need of a receiver who can create separation and threaten defenses with speed and agility, Noel could be a serious option on Day 2 of the draft. His blend of athleticism and skill set could make him a steal for any team looking to add an explosive playmaker to their offense.
Final Thoughts
The 2025 NFL Scouting Combine was full of impressive performances, but these four players stood out the most with their game-changing athleticism. Whether it was Sanders showcasing his power-speed combo, Tuten proving his explosiveness, Golden burning up the turf with his blazing speed, or Noel making his case as one of the most dynamic receivers in the class—each of these athletes solidified themselves as must-watch prospects heading into the draft.
With the Panthers and other teams searching for playmakers to elevate their offenses, these four names could be on the radar when draft day arrives. Don’t be surprised if they hear their names called earlier than expected. The 2025 draft class is stacked with talent, and these guys just made it even more exciting.
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