NFL Combine 2025: Maxwell Hairston Measurements, 40 Time, & Draft Prediction

Cornerback prospect Maxwell Hairston put up some of the best speed numbers that we’ve seen in some time at the 2025 NFL Combine. Will it help his draft status come mid-April?

Maxwell Hairston NFL Player Profile

After playing three seasons at Kentucky during his college days, Maxwell Hairston figures to be one of the better defensive back talents in the Class of 2025. His big statistical season came in 2023, when he led the SEC with 5 interceptions and racked up 68 combined tackles. His final season was cut short due to injury, though, as he missed five games in the middle of the season thanks to a shoulder ailment.

Hairston has some talents that will be attractive to NFL scouts, including solid footwork as well as the ability to succeed in both man and zone coverages. But his slender build has come into question during the draft process, as he has shown to have trouble with larger wide receivers, and struggles in run support.

But the 21-year-old cornerback may have turned some heads during the 2025 NFL Combine, as his name appeared at or near the top of the results list in some of the most important drills and exercises.

2025 NFL Combine Results

40-Yard Dash

Defensive backs typically finish with some of the best 40-yard dash times at each Combine, and Hairston proved to be the fastest at his position. Of the 24 cornerbacks who participated in the event, no one was faster than Maxwell Hairston, as he posted a time of 4.28 seconds. When compared to all of the cornerbacks who have run the 40 since 2008, Hairston’s time ranks tied for the 4th-best ever.

10-Yard Split

Hairston’s full 40 time is impressive, as is his 10-yard split time. While he didn’t place first in this particular event, he was tied with four other cornerbacks for the quickest mark at 1.50 seconds. The best time was 1.49.

Broad/Vertical Jump

He can leap, too. In the broad jump, Hairston posted a length of 10’9”, which ranked third-best among his position group. His results were even better in the vertical jump, as he came in second, just a half-inch off of the leader.

Physical Measurements

• Height: 5’11”
• Weight: 183 lbs
• Arms: 31”
• Hands: 8 ¾”

Maxwell Hairston NFL Draft Prediction

Maxwell Hairston entered the Combine as a talent that was projected to be selected in the second or third rounds. His shortcomings with his frame and tackling ability will likely prevent him from boosting up into being picked on Day 1, but his showing of speed this past weekend will certainly help his draft stock.

Prediction:  2nd round, 63rd overall pick – Kansas City Chiefs