Jalen Royals Utah State WR Emerges as Top NFL Draft Prospect for 2026
Jalen Royals has emerged as one of the most electric wide receivers in college football this season. The Utah State standout earned Second-Team All-Mountain West honors in 2024 and has caught the attention of NFL scouts with his dynamic playmaking ability. Currently, Royals is ranked as the #8 wide receiver prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft with an impressive 85.6 rating. Royals combines precise route running with explosive speed that makes him a legitimate field-stretcher at the next level.
What separates Royals from other receivers in this draft class is his ability to turn any catch into a touchdown. The Aggies’ star possesses a well-proportioned NFL frame and has demonstrated short-area quickness that allows him to create separation from defenders. His 4.42 forty time further illustrates why defensive coordinators have struggled to contain him throughout his collegiate career.
NFL offensive coordinators are surely taking notice of Royals’ development. His recognition as both a Senior Bowl and Shrine Bowl Offensive Player of the Week this season speaks to his consistency and ability to perform against quality competition. With his combination of technical route running and home-run hitting potential, Royals is positioning himself as a potential day two selection next April.
Contents
Early Years And College Career
Jalen Royals has established himself as one of the most dynamic receivers in college football, building from humble beginnings to becoming a standout performer at Utah State. His journey showcases remarkable development and statistical excellence that has NFL scouts taking notice.
High School Highlights
Born on February 18, 2003, Royals developed his athletic foundation before arriving at the collegiate level. His raw athleticism stood out early, displaying the speed and route-running precision that would later become his trademark.
After high school, Royals took a less conventional path to Division I football. Rather than jumping straight to a major program, he honed his skills at Georgia Military, where he developed both physically and technically.
This developmental period proved crucial, allowing Royals to refine his skill set while maintaining eligibility and preparing for the jump to FBS competition. His junior college experience built the foundation for what would become an explosive career at Utah State.
Utah State Achievements
Royals’ impact at Utah State was immediate and substantial. In just 17 games spanning the 2023 and 2024 seasons, he has accumulated an impressive 1,360 receiving yards, averaging 80 yards per game – putting him on pace to challenge school records.
His 2024 campaign has been particularly noteworthy, earning him Second-Team All-Mountain West honors and recognition as a Senior Bowl Offensive Player of the Week (October 5, 2024).
NFL scouts are particularly intrigued by Royals’ combination of size and speed, which translates well to the professional game. Though he has limited experience as a return specialist with just nine career kickoff returns, his physical attributes suggest potential in this area at the next level.
| Season | Receptions | Yards | TDs | YPG |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023-24 | – | 1,360 | – | 80.0 |
Royals’ production has him climbing draft boards, with analysts projecting him as a mid-round selection who could rise further with strong pre-draft workouts. His blend of production, physical tools, and consistent improvement makes him an intriguing prospect for NFL teams seeking playmaking ability at receiver.
Scouting Report
Jalen Royals has emerged as one of the most intriguing wide receiver prospects in the upcoming draft. His combination of speed, route-running precision, and playmaking ability has caught the attention of NFL scouts across the league.
Athletic Profile
Royals possesses a well-proportioned NFL frame that allows him to compete at the highest level. His 4.42 forty time demonstrates the elite speed that makes him a constant deep threat. This verified speed isn’t just track speed – it translates directly to the field.
His athletic testing shows the explosiveness teams covet in modern receivers. While not the tallest prospect, Royals compensates with excellent body control and leaping ability when competing for contested catches.
The Utah State product brings a dynamic athletic profile that ranks him as the #8 receiver prospect according to some draft boards, offering teams a skillset that can stretch defenses vertically.
Game Analysis
Royals consistently displayed game-breaking ability during his time at Utah State. His route-running is precise and fluid, allowing him to create separation against tight coverage. This technical proficiency makes him an immediate contributor at the next level.
What stands out most is his versatility in the offense. Utah State deployed him in various ways, including on screen passes that showcased his catch-and-run ability. His acceleration with the ball in his hands turns short completions into explosive plays.
Unfortunately, Royals’ final season was cut short due to injury, which may affect his draft position. However, his production prior to the injury demonstrated his potential as a difference-maker.
| Season Stats | Receptions | Yards | TDs | YPC |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 (pre-injury) | 58 | 912 | 8 | 15.7 |
Strengths And Weaknesses
Strengths:
- Elite speed that makes him a legitimate field-stretcher who can score from anywhere
- Good and precise route runner who creates separation consistently
- Impressive short-area quickness and change-of-direction ability
- Natural hands-catcher who plucks the ball away from his body
- Dangerous yards-after-catch ability with good vision in the open field
Weaknesses:
- Coming off a significant injury that raises durability concerns
- Could improve his strength to better handle physical press coverage
- May need to expand his route tree for a more complete NFL skill set
- Sometimes relies too heavily on athleticism rather than technique
- Competition level in the Mountain West raises questions about transition to NFL speed
Pre-Draft Events
Jalen Royals has turned heads throughout the pre-draft process, steadily raising his NFL Draft stock with impressive performances across multiple evaluation opportunities. His journey from Utah State to potential NFL draft pick has been highlighted by strong showings at key events.
Senior Bowl Performance
Royals made the most of his Senior Bowl invitation, demonstrating why he’s considered one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2025 draft class. Against elite competition, the Utah State standout showcased his route-running precision and reliable hands during practice sessions.
NFL scouts took particular notice of his ability to create separation against tight coverage. Royals’ performance during one-on-one drills earned positive reviews from evaluators in attendance.
During the game itself, he recorded three receptions for 42 yards, including a difficult sideline catch that highlighted his body control and awareness.
His Senior Bowl week answered questions about how his production would translate when facing higher-level defensive backs. Multiple teams conducted formal interviews with Royals during the event, signaling genuine interest in the Utah State product.
NFL Scouting Combine Results
At the NFL Scouting Combine, Royals delivered impressive athletic testing numbers that matched his on-field production. His performance solidified his position as a day two draft prospect.
Jalen Royals – Combine Measurements & Results
| Measurement | Result |
|---|---|
| Height | 6’0″ |
| Weight | 194 lbs |
| 40-yard dash | 4.45 seconds |
| Vertical jump | 38.5 inches |
| Broad jump | 10’2″ |
| Bench press | 15 reps |
Royals’ 40-yard dash time proved he has legitimate NFL speed, while his jumping metrics demonstrated the explosiveness he shows on tape. These numbers reinforced what scouts saw on film from his productive career at Utah State.
During position drills, he ran crisp routes and displayed natural hands, catching nearly everything thrown his way. His combine performance helped cement his projected second to late-round draft status.
Pro Day Showcasing
Royals capped off his pre-draft process at Utah State’s Pro Day on March 21, 2025, where he opted to stand on most of his combine numbers while participating in position-specific drills. Representatives from 24 NFL teams attended the event, with several wide receiver coaches present specifically to evaluate Royals.
During route-running drills, he displayed smooth transitions in and out of breaks with minimal wasted movement. His ability to track the deep ball stood out, as he made several impressive over-the-shoulder catches during the showcase.
Royals met individually with five NFL teams following the workout, suggesting continued interest in his services. Current draft projections have him ranked as the #8 wide receiver prospect in this class.
The combination of his production at Utah State, strong Senior Bowl showing, solid combine metrics, and impressive Pro Day performance has positioned Royals as a potential second-day selection in the upcoming NFL Draft.
Professional Outlook
Jalen Royals has positioned himself as one of the more intriguing wide receiver prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. His combination of athleticism, route-running precision, and playmaking ability has NFL scouts taking notice.
Projected NFL Role
Royals projects as a versatile receiver who can make an immediate impact at the next level. His precise route running and short-area quickness make him ideal for a slot role in many NFL offenses, but he has the skills to line up outside as well.
What stands out most is Royals’ ability to create separation at multiple levels of the field. He’s shown a particularly strong aptitude for intermediate routes, where he’s graded at an impressive 81%.
As a deep threat (84% grade), Royals could become a valuable vertical option for teams needing explosiveness. His ball skills in contested catch situations exceed what you’d expect from his frame.
| Skill Area | Grade | NFL Projection |
|---|---|---|
| Intermediate Routes | 81% | High-value possession receiver |
| Deep Threat | 84% | Vertical field stretcher |
| Blocking | 55% | Development area |
| Draft Projection | – | 2nd Round – Late |
Potential Fit With NFL Teams
Teams will likely target Royals for his scheme-flexible versatility as a weapon. He fits both West Coast timing offenses and vertical attack systems.
The Buffalo Bills stand out as an intriguing landing spot. Royals could complement their existing receiving corps while providing a reliable target underneath. His route precision would mesh well with Josh Allen’s improving accuracy.
Green Bay also emerges as a potential fit. The Packers’ history of developing second-round receivers combined with Royals’ kickoff return potential could make him a Matt LaFleur favorite.
Teams like the Chiefs and Ravens might view Royals as an ideal complement to their offenses. They prioritize receivers who create separation over pure size. His well-proportioned NFL frame combined with route-running savvy makes him a day-one contributor with room to develop into a potential WR2.
Statistical Overview
Jalen Royals has emerged as one of Utah State’s most productive offensive weapons, consistently showing improvement each season. His receiving stats demonstrate both reliability and big-play ability that NFL scouts have begun to notice.
College Career Stats
Royals has compiled impressive numbers during his time with the Aggies. Through the current 2024 season, he has 126 catches for 1,914 yards and 21 touchdowns across his three-year college career.
His 2024 campaign has been particularly strong, with 55 receptions for 834 yards and 6 touchdowns through games played so far. That’s good for an excellent 15.2 yards per catch average, showcasing his ability to stretch the field.
Most impressive was his performance against ranked competition. He recorded 9 catches for 211 yards against #21 Boise State on October 5, 2024. That yardage total tied for the 11th-most in a single game in Utah State history.
| Season | Receptions | Yards | TDs | Avg/Catch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 55 | 834 | 6 | 15.2 |
| Career | 126 | 1,914 | 21 | 15.2 |
Notable Achievements
Royals’ athletic testing numbers have caught attention from NFL evaluators. At 6-foot, 205 pounds, he possesses solid build with 30-inch arms and 9½-inch hands. His vertical jump measures at 36 inches and his broad jump at 121 inches.
His three-cone drill time of 6.94 seconds demonstrates good change-of-direction skills that complement his straight-line speed. Most draft analysts currently project Royals as a mid-to-late round selection with upside.
Scouts particularly note his performance against better competition. The 211-yard explosion against Boise State demonstrated he can produce against NFL-caliber defensive backs. His consistent improvement each season also suggests he hasn’t yet reached his ceiling as a player.
Royals’ touchdown production (21 in three seasons) indicates solid red zone ability despite not having prototypical height for a boundary receiver.
Impact Beyond Stats
Jalen Royals’ influence extends far beyond his impressive receiving numbers at Utah State. His presence has shaped both the team culture and community in significant ways.
Leadership And Team Influence
Royals emerged as one of Utah State’s most respected voices in the locker room during the 2024 season. Despite not being named a team captain officially, coaches frequently referred to him as the team’s “emotional compass.”
His work ethic became legendary among teammates. Royals routinely stayed after practice for extra reps and film study, often convincing younger receivers to join him. This commitment to improvement set a standard that elevated the entire receiving corps.
“When your best player is also your hardest worker, that changes everything,” Utah State offensive coordinator Mike Sanford Jr. noted midway through the season.
Royals’ resilience through early-season adversity particularly stood out. After a tough two-game stretch with multiple drops in September, he rebounded with three consecutive 100+ yard performances.
Community Involvement
Royals devoted significant time to community service throughout his Utah State career. His most impactful work came through his partnership with Logan Youth Development Center, where he volunteered over 150 hours during his final two seasons.
His reading program in Cache Valley elementary schools reached over 2,000 children. Teachers reported that his visits significantly boosted reading participation rates among young students, particularly boys.
Royals also organized a football camp that served over 300 underprivileged youth in the Logan area last summer. He recruited teammates and secured donations to ensure the camp remained free for all participants.
The Utah State record-holder for touchdown catches received the Mountain West Conference Community Service Award in 2024, highlighting his commitment to giving back.
Special Teams Contributions
Jalen Royals has showcased his versatility beyond receiving duties by making significant contributions on special teams for Utah State. His explosive speed and elusiveness have made him a valuable asset in the return game.
Kickoff And Punt Return Skills
Royals’ athleticism translates exceptionally well to the return game. He’s displayed the same game-breaking ability that makes him dangerous as a receiver. His 4.42 speed allows him to hit gaps quickly and accelerate past coverage units.
In 2023, Royals handled 11 kickoff returns for Utah State. He averaged a solid 22.7 yards per return with a long of 35 yards. Though not utilized extensively as a punt returner, his skill set suggests untapped potential in this area.
NFL scouts have taken notice of this dimension to his game. Special teams versatility often separates mid-round receivers from late-round prospects. This could potentially boost Royals’ draft stock to the 4th-5th round range.
What makes Royals particularly intriguing as a returner is his combination of top-end speed and lateral quickness. He displays excellent vision to identify running lanes and the burst to exploit them before they close.
| Special Teams Statistics | Total | Average | Long |
|---|---|---|---|
| Kickoff Returns (2023) | 11 | 22.7 | 35 |
| Career Return TDs | 0 | – | – |
While Royals hasn’t scored on a return yet, his catch-and-run ability showcased on receiver screens demonstrates his potential to create explosive plays in space. His compact 6-foot frame and strong lower body help him break arm tackles and maintain balance through contact.
For teams seeking a developmental receiver who can contribute immediately on special teams, Royals offers compelling value. His willingness to embrace return duties speaks to his team-first mentality and competitive spirit.