Texas Defensive Backs Shine at NFL Draft Combine

Muhammad and Taaffe turn in strong performances in Indianapolis

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

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Texas defensive backs Malik Muhammad and Michael Taaffe showcased their skills at the NFL Draft Combine in Indianapolis. Muhammad recorded a 40-yard dash time of 4.42 seconds, the eighth-fastest among cornerbacks, just behind the fastest time of 4.32 seconds set by Missouri's Toriano Pride Jr. Taaffe clocked a 40-yard dash time of 4.50 seconds. Texas tight end Jack Endries also had a solid performance, running a 40-yard dash in 4.62 seconds.

Why it matters

The NFL Draft Combine is a crucial event for college players looking to improve their draft stock and impress NFL scouts. Strong showings by Texas defensive backs like Muhammad and Taaffe could boost their chances of being selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.

The details

Muhammad turned in a 40-yard dash time of 4.42 seconds, the eighth-fastest time among cornerbacks, and just a tenth-of-a-second away from the fastest time of 4.32 set by Missouri's Toriano Pride Jr. Muhammad and Pride had the fastest 10-yard split at 1.41 seconds. Three participants clocked a time of 4.41 seconds, a hundredth-of-a-second faster than Muhammad. Taaffe clocked a 4.50 40 time in his only drill of the day. Texas tight end Jack Endries ran a 40-yard dash of 4.62 seconds.

  • The NFL Draft Combine took place on Friday, February 27, 2026 in Indianapolis.

The players

Malik Muhammad

A Texas defensive back who recorded a 40-yard dash time of 4.42 seconds, the eighth-fastest time among cornerbacks at the 2026 NFL Draft Combine.

Michael Taaffe

A Texas defensive back who clocked a 40-yard dash time of 4.50 seconds at the 2026 NFL Draft Combine.

Jack Endries

A Texas tight end who ran a 40-yard dash in 4.62 seconds at the 2026 NFL Draft Combine.

Toriano Pride Jr.

A Missouri defensive back who set the fastest 40-yard dash time of 4.32 seconds at the 2026 NFL Draft Combine.

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What’s next

The NFL Draft Combine continues through Sunday, February 29, 2026, with more drills and testing for the participating players.

The takeaway

The strong performances by Texas defensive backs Malik Muhammad and Michael Taaffe at the NFL Draft Combine showcase the talent in the Longhorns' secondary and could improve their chances of being selected in the upcoming NFL Draft.