Jahmyr Gibbs declares for 2023 NFL Draft, then reveals shocking 40-yard dash time

Chase Goodbread, The Tuscaloosa News
·2 min read
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Alabama football running back Jahmyr Gibbs, who declared early eligibility for the 2023 NFL Draft on Monday, said the feedback he's received on his draft status suggests he could be selected in the range of picks No. 20-25 in the first round.

That's a lofty projection for a running back, a position that NFL general managers don't value especially high in the draft, especially for a relatively small back such as Gibbs (5-foot-11, 200 pounds, per UA). But if Gibbs can duplicate his last effort in the 40-yard dash at the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine two months from now, his draft needle will be pointing straight up. Gibbs said his last clocking in the combine's premier event was a 4.32, which he ran before he transferred to Alabama from Georgia Tech.

PRO-BOUND: Alabama football QB Bryce Young declares for 2023 NFL Draft

GIBBS' DECISION: Alabama football running back Jahmyr Gibbs declares for 2023 NFL Draft

He'll be looking to do more than just match that, however.

"I hope I get even faster," he said.

At last year's combine, only four players among more than 300 athletes recorded a faster time than 4.32.

Gibbs closed his Alabama career with 76 yards on 15 carries in Saturday's 45-20 Sugar Bowl win over Kansas State. He added a 60-yard reception in the first quarter, breaking free on a short crossing route to wake up what had been a sleepy Crimson Tide offense. Gibbs finished the season with 926 yards on 151 carries for a 6.1-yard average, and seven touchdowns.

The NFL draft will be held April 27-29 in Kansas City. Gibbs joined former Alabama stars Bryce Young and Will Anderson in announcing early eligibility for the draft on Monday, although other Crimson Tide players, including defensive back Brian Branch, continue to mull a decision. The deadline for underclassmen to declare draft eligibility is Jan. 16.

Reach Chase Goodbread at cgoodbread@gannett.com. Follow on Twitter @chasegoodbread.

This article originally appeared on The Tuscaloosa News: Jahmyr Gibbs declares for NFL Draft 2023, reveals shocking 40-yard dash