Rome Odunze Goes Viral for Tireless Work Ethic at NFL Scouting Combine

Odunze’s extraordinary effort shined in Indianapolis.

Xavier Worthy may have stolen much of the spotlight at this year’s NFL scouting combine—and rightfully so—for his record-setting run in the 40-yard dash, but he wasn’t the only wide receiver who drew attention on Saturday at Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis. 

Washington wideout Rome Odunze, who reportedly has impressed teams in interviews, did something rarely seen at the combine—and it happened after the stadium had mostly emptied.

Odunze stayed on the field and wouldn’t leave until he had completed all of the combine’s events, the last of which was the three-cone drill. The Huskies receiver, regarded as a possible first-round selection in the upcoming 2024 NFL draft, went through six attempts on the three-cone drill in an attempt to better his time and eventually was told that the day’s activities were over. 

But Odunze’s incredible work ethic was not lost on the media and fans. A social media post by the NFL touting Odunze’s effort garnered more than 1 million views on X, formerly Twitter.

This was an INCREDIBLE moment unlike anything I’ve ever seen at the combine when it comes to elite talent like Rome Odunze.

He was the last prospect on the field. The day was done for everyone else. Not Rome. He vowed to complete EVERY aspect of testing. 3-Cone testing was last… pic.twitter.com/cNNr06jqUG

— StaceyDales (@StaceyDales) March 3, 2024

As NFL Network’s Stacey Dales noted, Odunze, who officially recorded a time of 6.88 seconds in the three-cone drill, will have a chance to improve that time. 

Indeed, Odunze took to X and confirmed he will indeed be attempting the drill again at Washington’s pro day, scheduled for March 28. 

While Odunze, the nation’s leader with 1,640 receiving yards in 2023, is likely frustrated with his three-cone mark, his determination and dedication almost certainly will be noticed by NFL decision makers.