The NFL Scouting Combine is all about numbers. Everything is measured, analyzed, and debated, from 40-yard dash times to bench press reps. But one of the most talked-about measurements? Hand size. Hand size can influence draft stock for quarterbacks, receivers, and even linemen. Some teams love big hands, while others worry about small ones.
So, who holds the records for the biggest and smallest hands in NFL Combine history? Let’s break it down.
Biggest Hand Sizes In NFL Combine History
Three players, defensive lineman DeForest Buckner, offensive tackle Gosder Cherilus, and tight end Mo Alie-Cox, have the largest recorded hand size at the NFL Combine. Each has massive 11.75-inch hands.
Buckner, a dominant defensive force, has used his size and reach to become a key player for the Indianapolis Colts. Interestingly, his teammate Mo Alie-Cox also boasts the same hand size. Alie-Cox, who transitioned from college basketball to the NFL, benefits from his enormous hands when catching passes and blocking defenders.
Illini WR Zakhari Franklin is 6ft1, 188lbs yet tests the biggest hands (10 1/2 inch) & longest arms (33 3/4 inch) in the class 👀
— Clint Goss (@NFLDraftDome) February 23, 2025
The NFL average hand size for WRs?
Between 9 1/4 – 9 1/2 inches
Arm length? Just under 32 in
💤 pic.twitter.com/3CO2Onep7q
Cherilus, an offensive tackle, played for multiple teams, including the Colts from 2013-2014. It’s an odd coincidence that all three record-holders have ties to Indianapolis. Maybe the Colts just love big hands?
Smallest Hand Sizes In NFL Combine History
While big hands are a plus, small hands often make headlines for the wrong reasons. Teams worry about fumbling issues, grip strength, and ball security. The smallest hands ever recorded at the Combine belong to former Oklahoma running back Kennedy Brooks. His hands measured just 7 5/8 inches.
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Despite a productive college career, Brooks went undrafted in 2022. He bounced around practice squads and eventually landed in the CFL with the Saskatchewan Roughriders. His small hand size may not have been the main reason for his NFL struggles, but it certainly didn’t help his draft stock.
Which Quarterback Has The Smallest Hands Ever?
For quarterbacks, hand size is a big deal. Scouts believe smaller hands lead to more fumbles and difficulty gripping the football in bad weather. The smallest hands ever recorded for a quarterback at the NFL Combine belong to Kevin Davidson from Princeton, who measured in at 8 1/4 inches in 2020. He went undrafted and had a short stint with the Cleveland Browns before being waived.
Before Davidson, Taysom Hill held the record with 8 3/4-inch hands. However, since Hill plays multiple positions, including tight end and special teams, his hand size never became a major concern.
Kenny Pickett’s Hand Size Controversy
In 2022, Pittsburgh quarterback Kenny Pickett measured in with 8 1/2-inch hands, sparking debate. Many questioned whether he could handle NFL conditions. He even had 38 fumbles in college, raising red flags. However, Pickett is double-jointed, allowing his thumb to extend further and improve grip.
Kenny Pickett isn’t worried about his ✋ size pic.twitter.com/iyh1I8D80z
— PFF (@PFF) March 5, 2022
Despite concerns, the Pittsburgh Steelers selected Pickett as the 20th overall pick, making him the first quarterback to be taken in 2022. While his career hasn’t gone as expected, he recently won a Super Bowl as a backup for the Philadelphia Eagles.
Jalen Milroe’s Hand Size In 2024
This year, Alabama quarterback Jalen Milroe is making headlines for his hand size. He measured in at 8 3/4 inches at the Senior Bowl, the smallest among quarterbacks since Pickett. While it’s uncertain how much this will impact his draft stock, history suggests teams will consider it.
Hand size might not make or break a player’s career, but it definitely influences draft discussions. Big hands can be an advantage, while small hands often raise concerns, especially for quarterbacks. Whether it’s DeForest Buckner’s massive mitts or Kennedy Brooks’ undersized grip, these measurements remain a fascinating part of the NFL Combine.
Also Read: One Viral Photo Perfectly Illustrates The Insane Scene Involving Travis Hunter At The NFL Combine
