Former Clemson Cornerback Toriano Pride Jr. Shines at NFL Combine with Blazing 40-Yard Dash
A former Clemson cornerback made a splash at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, leaving onlookers in awe with his blazing speed. Missouri's Toriano Pride Jr. lit up the 40-yard dash, clocking in at an astonishing 4.32 seconds—the fastest time for any position group so far at the combine.
Pride, who transferred to Missouri for his final two college campaigns, had an impressive run at Clemson from 2022-23. During his time as a Tiger, he accumulated 37 tackles (including 2.0 for loss), nine pass breakups, a sack, an interception, and a safety across 26 games (with three starts). In his final year, he contributed 14 tackles (one for loss) and five pass breakups in 12 games, including one start.
After transferring to Missouri ahead of the 2024 campaign, Pride had an even more impressive season. He played in all 13 games for Mizzou, racking up 22 tackles, two interceptions, six passes defended, one fumble recovery, and a forced fumble. This season, as a senior, he totaled 24 tackles (1.5 for loss), two interceptions (including a pick-six), a 62-yard fumble return, and six passes defended in 13 games.
The 5-foot-10, 185-pound defensive back from St. Louis, MO, was a top-40 national prospect in the 2022 recruiting class according to 247Sports. With his impressive performance at the combine, Pride is sure to be a highly-sought-after player in the 2026 NFL Draft, which takes place from April 23-25 in Pittsburgh.
But here's where it gets controversial... While Pride's speed is undoubtedly impressive, some may argue that his success at the combine is due to his size and position. What do you think? Sound off in the comments and let us know if you think Pride has what it takes to make it to the NFL!
