Here’s an impressive little nugget about new Green Bay Packers edge rusher Rashan Gary: He’s the heaviest player to ever run under 4.6 seconds in the 40-yard dash. Ever.
At 277 pounds, Gary finished the 40 in 4.58 seconds at the combine. Human beings that heavy aren’t supposed to run in a straight line that fast.
How athletic is Gary? One of his top athletic comparisons is Jadeveon Clowney, a freak of nature and the No. 1 overall pick from the 2014 draft.
Take a look:
| Gary | Clowney | |
| HT | 6-4 3/8 | 6-5 1/4 |
| WT | 277 | 266 |
| ARM | 34 1/8 | 34 1/2 |
| 40 | 4.58 | 4.53 |
| VJ | 38″ | 37.5″ |
| BJ | 120″ | 124″ |
| 3C | 7.26 | 7.27 |
| SS | 4.29 | 4.43 |
| BP | 26 | 21 |
While not a perfect match (Gary is heavier and a little more explosive), it’s still a fascinating athletic comparison and a potential best-case scenario for Gary, the 12th overall pick.
And it wouldn’t be surprising if Gary followed Clowney’s career path.
Clowney had a slow start to his NFL career but blossomed into a game-wrecking rusher during his third season. The Texans move him all around the defensive line and allow him to attack the offense from multiple angles, much like the Packers plan to do with Gary, who primarily played at defensive end at Michigan.
Defensive coordinator Mike Pettine wants big, athletic and versatile rushers. Clowney would be a terrific fit in his system. Gary’s athletic profile and expected versatility up front should make him a good fit, too.
Being an elite athlete doesn’t guarantee Gary will be an elite player in the NFL, but it definitely doesn’t hurt his chances, especially when he’s so similar to one of the game’s most disruptive players.
