Every NFL Draft class has its sleepers, and in the 2026 cycle, Georgia State's Ted Hurst is a name that should be on every scout's radar. Standing at a prototypical 6'4" and 206 pounds, Hurst isn't just a big body; he's a rare blend of size and explosive athleticism that translates directly to the perimeter.
His testing numbers tell a compelling story: a 4.42-second 40-yard dash and a 36.5-inch vertical jump at his frame place him in the 96th percentile historically for wide receiver prospects. This isn't just a tall receiver; this is an elite, size-adjusted athlete with the speed to stretch defenses vertically and the burst to win contested catches.
On the field, Hurst's 2025 tape reveals a true boundary specialist. His profile is built for the outside, leveraging his physical tools to earn targets and produce downfield. He posted a strong 2.42 yards per route run and earned a target on over 30% of his routes, demonstrating a consistent ability to command the football in his vertical-friendly role.
For fantasy managers and NFL teams alike, Hurst's appeal is clear. He projects as a classic "X" receiver whose value comes from winning on the perimeter, converting his elite athletic profile into tangible target volume, and providing a reliable red-zone and big-play threat. In a league that covets matchup nightmares on the outside, Ted Hurst has the foundational traits to become one.
