Lorenzo Styles Jr. has etched his name into NFL Scouting Combine history, blazing through the 40-yard dash in a jaw-dropping 4.27 seconds. This makes him the fastest Buckeye ever at the combine, breaking the elusive 4.3-second barrier for the first time.
Styles shattered the previous Ohio State record of 4.31 seconds, a mark shared by Curtis Samuel in 2017 and Parris Campbell in 2019. His performance wasn’t just a school record; it was the fastest 40 time among all defensive players at this year’s combine and tied for the ninth-fastest ever recorded.
Joining an elite group, Styles is now tied for the fourth-fastest time among defensive backs in combine history. This achievement places him alongside other Buckeye speedsters like Arvell Reese and his brother Sonny Styles, who both dominated the linebacker group with a 4.46-second dash.
Despite Reese and Sonny Styles already being pegged as early first-round picks, Lorenzo Styles entered the combine with something to prove. Previously not projected to be drafted, his standout performance has likely shifted those expectations dramatically.
During a media session, Styles candidly reflected on his college journey. As Ohio State’s starting nickelback last season, he admitted to not fully meeting his own goals on the field. Starting his college career as a wide receiver at Notre Dame before transferring in 2023, Styles emphasized the growth and preparation he gained from his time at Ohio State.
“I definitely wanted to do more, but I feel like everything turned out the way it was supposed to be,” Styles remarked. He credited his journey, including the challenges and special teams work, with preparing him for what he hopes will be a lengthy NFL career.
Styles’ speed was no secret to his teammates. After a stunning 100-yard kickoff return for a touchdown last season, Ohio State wide receiver Brandon Inniss declared him the fastest on the team. With his record-setting 40 time, Styles has certainly backed up that claim and boosted his draft stock significantly.