Georgia Bulldogs’ Arian Smith Announces 2025 NFL Draft Entry, Aims to Shatter 40-Yard Dash Record

ATHENS, Ga. — One of the fastest players in college football is making his move to the professional stage. Georgia Bulldogs wide receiver Arian Smith has officially declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, setting his sights on a future in the league. Known for his elite speed and big-play potential, Smith is also preparing to make history at the NFL Combine, where he hopes to break the record for the fastest 40-yard dash time ever recorded.

Explosive Playmaker Takes Next Step

Smith, who has long been regarded as one of the most electrifying deep threats in the country, is leaving Georgia after a career filled with highlight-reel moments. Throughout his time with the Bulldogs, he consistently showcased his ability to stretch the field and outrun defenders. His top-end speed, combined with strong route-running skills, made him a nightmare matchup for opposing secondaries.

During his college career, Smith tallied 1,356 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns, averaging nearly 20 yards per reception. His senior season was particularly impressive, as he led Georgia with 817 receiving yards on 48 catches, proving himself as a reliable target in the Bulldogs’ passing attack.

Despite facing injuries earlier in his college journey, Smith battled through adversity and emerged as a key contributor. His resilience, coupled with his undeniable athleticism, has made him a highly intriguing prospect for NFL scouts.

Chasing the 40-Yard Dash Record

While Smith’s game film already speaks volumes about his ability, one of the biggest storylines heading into the draft will be his performance at the NFL Scouting Combine. The Georgia speedster has made it clear that he has one goal in mind—breaking the 40-yard dash record.

The current record stands at 4.21 seconds, a mark set by John Ross in 2017. Given Smith’s track background, there’s a real chance he could challenge or even surpass that time. As a freshman at Georgia, he clocked an astonishing 10.10 seconds in the 100-meter dash, a testament to his world-class speed. If he can translate that explosiveness to his 40-yard dash attempt, NFL executives will have no choice but to take notice.

“I know I’m one of the fastest guys in this class, and I’m coming for that record,” Smith said in a recent interview. “That’s been my goal since I started preparing for the draft.”

NFL Outlook and Draft Projection

Smith’s game-breaking speed alone will make him an attractive option for teams looking to add a deep threat to their offense. However, he is not just a one-dimensional player. His development as a route-runner and ability to track the ball downfield make him a well-rounded receiver with the potential to thrive at the next level.

NFL teams that prioritize speed, such as the Kansas City Chiefs, Miami Dolphins, and Baltimore Ravens, could all be potential landing spots for Smith. His ability to take the top off a defense and turn short catches into big gains makes him an asset in any offensive scheme.

Draft analysts currently project Smith as a mid-round pick, but a record-breaking performance at the Combine could push him up the draft boards. If he runs in the low 4.2s or even high 4.1s, teams may be willing to take a chance on him earlier than expected, knowing the kind of game-changing ability he brings.

Farewell to Georgia

As Smith prepares for the next chapter of his career, he took time to express gratitude to Georgia fans, coaches, and teammates.

“Georgia will always be home,” he wrote in a farewell message on social media. “This program has helped shape me into the player and person I am today. I’m forever grateful to Coach Smart, my teammates, and the Dawg Nation for all the support.”

Georgia fans have certainly enjoyed watching Smith blaze past defenders over the years, and they will now be rooting for him as he takes his talents to the NFL.