Indianapolis, IN – Texas Longhorns cornerback Malik Muhammad posted an official 4.42-second 40-yard dash time at the NFL Scouting Combine on Saturday, bolstering his draft stock as teams evaluate potential selections for the upcoming NFL Draft. The performance, observed during combine drills at Lucas Oil Stadium, is expected to solidify his position as a likely second-round pick.
Muhammad, listed at 6-0 and 182 pounds with a 32 3/8” arm length, has been preparing for the combine with guidance from several former Longhorns, including Jahdae Barron, Matthew Golden, Andrew Mukuba, Xavier Worthy, Adonai Mitchell, Byron Murphy, and Barryn Sorrell. He described the preparation as focused on mastering techniques and football IQ, skills he believes will translate to success at the professional level.
During interviews at the combine, Muhammad emphasized the mentorship he received during his three years at Texas. He specifically credited Barron, T’Vondre Sweat, Worthy, and quarterback Quinn Ewers for providing valuable advice and preparing him for the challenges of the NFL evaluation process. “I had great mentors,” Muhammad said at the combine, adding that veteran players consistently emphasized the importance of being ready when opportunities arise.
Muhammad’s path to becoming a potential NFL draft pick wasn’t initially focused on the defensive side of the ball. He initially preferred playing receiver, even logging two touchdown catches as a junior at South Oak Cliff High School. However, a conversation with family members led him to recognize the greater potential for a professional career at cornerback, citing a larger demand for skilled players at that position.
In his final season with the Longhorns in 2025, Muhammad recorded career highs in tackles for loss (2.5) and interceptions (2, both against Oklahoma). This performance earned him a second-team All-SEC selection. The Texas Longhorns have recently become a notable source of NFL talent, with 12 players selected in last year’s draft, including Barron and Ewers, setting a novel school record.
Muhammad completed testing and drills at the combine on Friday and Saturday. He described the interviews with NFL teams as “just talking football,” and indicated that the experience was less stressful than anticipated, based on accounts from previous combine participants.
