NFL Combine 2024 Results: Highlights, Reaction and Recap from Thursday

The NFL Scouting Combine kicked off on Thursday, as defensive lineman and linebackers in the 2024 draft class looked to showcase their skills in front of general managers, coaches, and scouts.

Several future NFL players increased their draft stock with impressive showings, starting with Florida State defensive lineman Braden Fiske. He posted a time of 4.78 seconds in the 40-yard dash, good enough to lead all defensive tackles (via NFL.com). Fiske also paced his fellow defensive tackle prospects with a 33.50" vertical jump as well as a 9'9" broad jump.

He was aware of his strong performance during the 40-yard dash, exclaiming "oh yeah" as he crossed the finish line. Fiske left fans and analysts alike amazed by his exceptional results.

Fiske is currently the No. 18 defensive lineman in the 2024 class on the latest big board by Bleacher Report's NFL Scouting Department, although it isn't difficult to imagine him climbing the rankings following his combine performance on Thursday.

Other players solidified their status as an early draft pick such as Texas defensive lineman Byron Murphy II. He had a strong day as well, with his 40-yard dash time of 4.88 seconds ranking No. 3 among defensive tackles. He also ranked No. 2 behind Fiske with a vertical jump of 33".

Murphy II was a major piece on the Longhorns' defense in 2023, helping the team earn a win in the Big 12 title game. In 14 contests during his junior season, he recorded 8.5 tackles for loss.

T'Vondre Sweat, Murphy II's teammate on the Longhorns, also showcased his mobility. Sweat weighed in at 366 pounds, which was notable after he did not weigh in at the senior bowl. The 22-year-old posted a 40-yard dash time of 5.27 seconds, which excited fans despite ranking as the slowest time among the participants.

It was still an impressive performance from the defensive tackle, who told reporters that he would "shock" them with his 40 time prior to running.

Reigning Super Bowl MVP Patrick Mahomes weighed in on the event, leading to the NFL posting an overlay of his 40-yard dash time compared to Sweat and Fiske.

Sweat is a towering run defender who has also shown the propensity to bat passes down at the line of scrimmage. In 2023, he recorded eight tackles for loss and four passes defensed in 14 games.

The combine will continue on Friday, with defensive backs and tight ends expected to run and test.