'It's archaic': Why the 40-yard dash has lost its relevance at the combine

The article discusses the diminishing relevance of the 40-yard dash at the NFL combine. Although the 40-yard dash has been a staple of the combine for the past 20 years, its importance to teams has declined as they turn to other means, such as GPS tracking and analytical data, to assess player speed. Some prospects have even chosen to forgo the 40 and focus on football-specific training. The article highlights the booming industry of combine training and the drawbacks of hyperfocusing on combine performance. Teams value football-specific information and play speed more than a fast 40 time. In-game GPS tracking and sports data analysis provide a deeper understanding of player performance. Despite its diminishing relevance, the 40-yard dash remains a marquee event at the combine, allowing prospects to showcase their preparation and discipline under pressure.