Former Boise State cornerback Jamar Taylor has emerged as this year's fast-rising Bronco in the NFL Draft.

Taylor ran the 40-yard dash in 4.39 seconds Tuesday at the NFL Scouting Combine - the centerpiece of an outstanding overall performance.

He also attracted attention at the Senior Bowl practices last month in Mobile, Ala., and at least one NFL Network analyst said he sees Taylor as a high second-round prospect.

Ian Rapoport, a reporter for the NFL Network, also raved about Taylor.

"I remember I heard buzzing about Boise St CB Jamar Taylor in Mobile," Rapoport tweeted. "More buzzing. 4.39 40, killed the bench, nice on 3-cone. #rising".

Taylor has mimicked the rise of previous Boise State draft prospects like Shea McClellin, Doug Martin and Kyle Wilson by using the Senior Bowl/combine combo to change perceptions.

NFL Network analyst Mike Mayock questioned Taylor's speed before he ran the 40. Taylor responded by tying for the fourth-best time out of 53 participating defensive backs.

He also tied for fourth in the 20-yard shuttle and the bench press in Indianapolis.

Taylor was a little disappointed with his 40 time - he ran 4.33 at Boise State - but happy with the overall workout.

"I'm definitely blessed to have this opportunity and to come out and show what I have," he said. "I think I proved to everybody that I can run a little bit. I'll definitely take it."

He prepared for the combine in Florida but will return to Boise to work with Broncos strength coach Tim Socha and defensive backs coach Jimmy Lake in advance of pro day on March 21. That's when NFL scouts come to campus to work out Boise State's draft prospects.

Taylor said his success at the combine won't affect his work habits.

"I like being the guy nobody worries about," he said. "I'm going to continue to work as the underdog because that's what I am."

Chadd Cripe: 377-6398,Twitter: @IDS_BroncoBeat