Rome Odunze Posts Elite Combine Numbers as Wide Receiver Class Shines in Indianapolis
Rome Odunze continued his meteoric rise up NFL Draft boards on Monday at the Indianapolis Combine, posting elite athletic numbers that included a blazing 4.35-second 40-yard dash and a 38-inch vertical jump, further cementing his status as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2026 class.
The 6-foot-3, 212-pound Washington product was the standout performer among a deep and talented group of receivers, showcasing the combination of size, speed, and athleticism that has NFL scouts comparing him favorably to recent first-round successes. Odunze's 40-time was the fastest among receivers over 6-foot-2, demonstrating the rare blend of height and speed that modern NFL offenses crave.
"Rome has been everything we expected and more," said one NFC scout who spoke on condition of anonymity. "His college tape was outstanding, but to see him back it up with these kinds of measurables at this size, it's exactly what you want in a top-10 pick. He's got the physical tools to be a true number one receiver from day one in our league."
Odunze's impressive showing was part of a larger narrative of receiver excellence at this year's combine, with LSU's Malik Nabers running a 4.39 and Texas's Adonai Mitchell posting a 4.34. The depth and quality of the receiver class has several teams reconsidering their draft strategies, particularly those in need of offensive playmakers.
The former Husky standout also impressed during position drills, showing smooth route-running technique and reliable hands that translated his college production to the combine setting. His ability to create separation at the line of scrimmage and adjust to poorly thrown balls drew praise from receivers coach consultants working with various NFL teams.
Odunze's combine performance likely locks him into the top 10 of April's draft, with teams like the Arizona Cardinals, Chicago Bears, and New England Patriots all expressing significant interest in adding a premier receiver. His combination of production, measurables, and character has made him one of the most coveted prospects in a draft class that could see multiple receivers selected in the first round. With the NFL's continued emphasis on explosive passing attacks, prospects like Odunze represent the future of professional football.
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