UTSA Kicker Stuns NFL Scouts with Blazing 40-Yard Dash, 70-Yard Field Goal

Jaffer Murphy's impressive pro day performance has scouts buzzing ahead of the 2026 NFL Draft.

Mar. 22, 2026 at 4:25pm

UTSA kicker Jaffer Murphy turned heads at his pro day, running a blazing 4.5-second 40-yard dash and nailing a 70-yard field goal, which would set a new NFL record. Murphy's combination of elite kicking power and surprising speed has NFL scouts very intrigued about his potential as a draft prospect.

Why it matters

Kickers with exceptional leg strength and athleticism are highly coveted in the modern NFL, where new kickoff rules have made special teams play more important than ever. Murphy's pro day showcase demonstrated that he possesses a rare skill set that could make him an attractive option for teams looking to upgrade their kicking game.

The details

During his UTSA pro day, Murphy went 12-of-13 on field goal attempts, with his longest make coming from an astounding 70 yards out - two yards further than the current NFL record. He also ran the 40-yard dash in 4.5 seconds, a time that would be impressive for a skill position player, let alone a kicker. Murphy's speed is particularly noteworthy given the new NFL kickoff rules that emphasize the need for kickers to contribute on special teams coverage.

  • Jaffer Murphy's pro day took place on March 21, 2026.
  • The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026.

The players

Jaffer Murphy

A kicker prospect from the University of Texas at San Antonio (UTSA) who impressed NFL scouts with his powerful leg and surprising speed at his recent pro day.

Cam Little

The current NFL record holder for the longest field goal, having hit a 68-yard kick in November 2025.

CeeDee Lamb

A wide receiver for the Dallas Cowboys who ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine.

Aaron Jones

A running back for the Minnesota Vikings who also ran a 4.5-second 40-yard dash at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine.

David Bailey

An edge rusher prospect in the 2026 NFL Draft class who is expected to run a 40-yard dash time similar to Jaffer Murphy's.

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What they’re saying

“Jaffer Murphy has NFL scouts buzzing after running a 4.5-second 40-yard dash and nailing a 70-yard field goal at UTSA's pro day.”

— Ben Strauss, Author

What’s next

The 2026 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2026, where teams will have the opportunity to select Jaffer Murphy if they believe his unique skill set is worth a draft pick.

The takeaway

Jaffer Murphy's impressive pro day performance has demonstrated that he possesses a rare combination of kicking power and athleticism that could make him a valuable asset in the modern NFL. His ability to excel both as a kicker and on special teams coverage could make him an intriguing option for teams looking to upgrade their special teams units in the 2026 draft.