New England Patriots rookie wide receiver Tyquan Thornton ran a blazing 4.28-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine in March. It helped cement him as one of the fastest wide receivers in this year’s rookie class, and also was an eye-opener for many.
The wide receiver was able to parlay that speed into success at the collegiate level. He recorded 2,242 yards and 19 touchdowns and four years at Baylor. His 2021 season was his most productive, as he caught 62 passes for 948 yards and 10 touchdowns.
Many of his Baylor teammates use to challenge him to foot races, according to NESN’s Zach Cox. However, his performance in Indianapolis made them realize that they could not catch Thornton after all.
“A lot of guys asked to race,” Thornton told reporters Tuesday after the Patriots’ second open OTA practice. “But not after that 4.2.”
Do any teammates ask Tyquan Thornton to race? (Thornton’s answer will crack you up. 😂) pic.twitter.com/hyIoA3M1MR
— Henry McKenna (@McKennAnalysis) May 31, 2022
Thornton is the fastest player drafted by the Patriots in the Bill Belichick era. With a New England offense looking for explosiveness, the wideout could provide it.
Although there are uncertainties surrounding other aspects of Thornton’s game, his speed is something that hasn’t been questioned.
