ASU WR Strong turns in fast 40-yard dash time at the NFL scouting combine

INDIANAPOLIS – Arizona State receiver Jaelen Strong bolstered his chances of being drafted in the first round

by clocking fast times in the 40-yard dash on Saturday at the NFL scouting combine.

Strong was timed in 4.44 seconds, which is fast for someone Strong's size, 6-feet-3 and 215 pounds.

On Friday, Strong said he had been asked about his speed many times over the past few days. He vowed to alleviate any concerns on Saturday, and that's what he did.

Strong said his football intelligence separates him from other receivers in this draft.

"I'm very, very smart when it comes to getting up on the board and recognizing coverages, recognizing hot reads and things like that," Strong said. "That's something the media doesn't know about me. You guys see what I put on film. You don't really get the chance to talk to me about the game of football and how much I do know about football.

"That's one thing I definitely will stress upon the GMs and coaches when I get a chance to meet with them."

Arizona State has not produced a first-round pick since the Ravens selected Terrell Suggs in 2003.