USC's Makai Lemon Impresses at Pro Day with Blazing 40-Time

The star wide receiver turned heads with his speed ahead of the NFL Draft

Mar. 12, 2026 at 8:36pm

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All eyes were on USC wide receiver Makai Lemon as he participated in the Trojans' Pro Day on March 12. Lemon, who skipped the NFL Combine, reportedly ran a blistering 4.47-second 40-yard dash, an excellent time for a player not known as a burner. Lemon also had a smooth day catching the ball, showcasing his natural hands and crisp route-running. The 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner has scheduled top 30 visits with several teams drafting in the top 13 picks, including the Rams, Titans, Browns, and Dolphins, as he looks to boost his draft stock ahead of the NFL Draft.

Why it matters

Lemon's impressive Pro Day performance could significantly impact his draft position, as teams in need of a top-tier receiver will be closely evaluating his skills. A strong 40-time and solid all-around workout could vault Lemon into the first-round conversation, potentially landing him with a team like the Rams, Titans, or Browns who are seeking to add a dynamic playmaker to their offense.

The details

Lemon elected to skip the NFL Combine in Indianapolis last month, opting to showcase his skills at USC's Pro Day instead. In front of scouts, including Rams GM Les Snead and Bears QB Caleb Williams, Lemon reportedly ran a 4.47-second 40-yard dash, an excellent time that defied his reputation as a non-burner. Aside from one deep pass that just slipped through his fingers, Lemon had a smooth day catching the ball and running crisp routes, further impressing onlookers.

  • USC held its Pro Day on Thursday, March 12 at Allyson Felix Field at Loker Track Stadium.
  • Lemon skipped the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis last month.

The players

Makai Lemon

A star wide receiver at USC who is entering the 2026 NFL Draft. Lemon was the 2025 Biletnikoff Award winner, given to the nation's top receiver.

Les Snead

The general manager of the Los Angeles Rams, a team that owns the 13th overall pick in the upcoming NFL Draft.

Caleb Williams

The starting quarterback for the Chicago Bears, who was Lemon's teammate at USC during the receiver's freshman season.

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What they’re saying

“This is home turf, I feel most comfortable out here, great weather. Just wanted to showcase my ability and what I can do on the field.”

— Makai Lemon

What’s next

Lemon has scheduled top 30 visits with several teams drafting in the top 13 picks, including the Los Angeles Rams, Tennessee Titans, Cleveland Browns, Washington Commanders, New Orleans Saints, and Miami Dolphins, as he looks to further boost his draft stock ahead of the NFL Draft in late April.

The takeaway

Makai Lemon's impressive Pro Day performance, highlighted by his blazing 40-yard dash time, has put the star USC receiver firmly in the conversation to be a first-round pick. Teams in need of a dynamic playmaker at the position, such as the Rams, Titans, and Browns, will be closely evaluating Lemon as the draft approaches.