ESPN labels Ladd McConkey’s NFL combine performance as fawless.

Ladd McConkey, a former Georgia wide receiver, is now being considered a potential first-round pick following his outstanding performance in the 2024 NFL combine.

McConkey was frequently undervalued throughout his time at UGA, but this has not been the case in pre-NFL selection assessments by experts. His whole performance further fueled the excitement.

ESPN draft analyst Jordan Reid shared his insights from Indianapolis. Georgia wide receiver Ladd McConkey performed exceptionally well in positional drills. His distinctive rapid acceleration and deceleration, along with his dynamic footwork, enabled him to navigate through any path effortlessly.

McConkey is a polished route runner and brings explosiveness with a speed of 4.39 seconds on a 6-foot, 186-pound body. He was ranked 36th overall in my evaluation, but his professional readiness and smooth speed make me consider him a top-32 talent and a target for the first round.

McConkey’s draft value has increased following his performance at this year’s Senior Bowl. McConkey showed at the Combine that he deserves to be considered a first-round pick, despite often being compared to the laid-back Julian Edelman. His skills are reminiscent of All-Pro wideout Antonio Brown and rookie Pro Bowler Puka Nacua.

McConkey measured taller than originally imagined, coming in at 5-foot-11 5/8″, 186 pounds. McConkey’s arm length and wingspan are among the smallest of wide receiver prospects, measured at 72″ and 30 2/8″, respectively. His 8 5/8″ hands are tied for the second-smallest.

That being said, McConkey has never been an imposing physical danger. He wins against defenders with speed, acceleration, outstanding route-running, and sure hands. We got a taste of some of their skills in the gauntlet drill.

McConkey’s 4.39 official forty-yard sprint performance equaled the sixth-best time among all receiving prospects, burying any worries about his break-away speed. McConkey’s agility was also on display in the vertical (36) and broad jump (10’4).

McConkey has an opportunity to raise his draft stock further when UGA hosts its Pro Day on March 13. The 2024 NFL draft will be held from April 25–27 in Detroit.