Honestly, I think the 40 is important, but it is blown out of proportion. I am generally much keener on watching tape as a measure of speed, particularly focusing on who they are playing against, and if they “pull away” in space. As long as players aren’t egregiously slow and look “fast” in game, they pass my test. I am generally shocked when a player who was never productive runs an insane time, jumps up the draft board, and then you never hear from them again. (that was my old man yelling at cloud moment).
Training for the 40
As a former college player (sick brag), I have been subject to honing in on my craft to get the best possible 40 time, and let tell you, it’s a grind.