Former Oregon Safety Thieneman Aims High for 40-Yard Dash at NFL Combine

Thieneman set a lofty goal of running in the 4.30s, but his size and body type may make that a challenge.

Published on Feb. 27, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Prior to his scheduled workout with fellow defensive backs at the NFL Scouting Combine, former Oregon Ducks safety Dillon Thieneman set a goal of running his 40-yard dash in the 4.30s. However, his size and body type may make that a difficult task, as the fastest 40-yard dash times for defensive backs typically come from smaller, more refined wide receiver-type body frames.

Why it matters

Thieneman's speed and athleticism were key assets during his time at Oregon, allowing him to make plays in coverage and against the run. His ability to post a fast 40-yard dash time at the Combine could impact his draft stock, as NFL teams value elite speed and explosiveness in defensive backs.

The details

Thieneman's first unofficial 40-yard dash attempt at the Combine was 4.37 seconds. For comparison, the fastest 40-yard dash times ever recorded at the Combine for defensive backs were 4.23 seconds by Kalon Barnes in 2022 and 4.21 seconds by Xavier Worthy in 2024. Only 22 players clocked below 4.4 seconds in the 40-yard dash at last year's Combine, highlighting how difficult it is for athletes of Thieneman's size (6'0", 201 lbs) to achieve sub-4.3 second times.

  • Thieneman's first unofficial 40-yard dash attempt at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine was 4.37 seconds.

The players

Dillon Thieneman

A former safety for the Oregon Ducks who is preparing for the NFL Scouting Combine.

Dan Lanning

The head coach of the Oregon Ducks football team.

Kalon Barnes

A former Baylor Bear and three-year NFL veteran who set the fastest 40-yard dash time for defensive backs at the Combine with a 4.23 second time in 2022.

Xavier Worthy

A current Kansas City Chiefs wide receiver and former Texas Longhorn who set the fastest 40-yard dash time at the Combine in 2024 with a 4.21 second time.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

While Thieneman's speed and athleticism were key assets at Oregon, his size and body type may make it challenging for him to achieve the sub-4.3 second 40-yard dash time he is aiming for at the NFL Combine. Nonetheless, his performance in the 40-yard dash and other drills will be closely watched by NFL teams as they evaluate his pro potential.