The Kansas City Chiefs made headlines during the 2025 NFL Draft by selecting Jalen Royals, a standout wide receiver from Utah State, with their fourth-round pick. Royals brings explosive playmaking and unique versatility to the Chiefs' offense, a move that could shape the team's aerial attack for seasons to come.

Jalen Royals: Journey to the NFL

Jalen Royals' path to the NFL was anything but conventional. Once a zero-star recruit without FBS offers, Royals began his career at Georgia Military College. A standout tryout led to a spot with Utah State, where his talent flourished. In 2023, Royals had a breakout season with 71 catches, 1,080 yards, and 15 touchdowns. His big-play ability separated him from the pack. Over the past two seasons, Royals led all FBS players with ten receptions of at least 50 yards.

Learn more about this incredible journey in Five Things to Know About Chiefs Fourth-Round Pick WR Jalen Royals, where the Chiefs themselves highlight his path from overlooked recruit to NFL difference-maker.

What Royals Brings to the Kansas City Chiefs

The Chiefs drafted Jalen Royals with the No. 133 overall pick, adding another weapon to quarterback Patrick Mahomes' arsenal. Royals stands six feet tall and weighs 205 pounds, combining speed with reliable hands. He posted a 4.42-second 40-yard dash and gained recognition for his ability to make defenders miss in the open field. In 2024, he averaged an impressive 7.9 yards after the catch and forced 17 missed tackles before a foot injury ended his season early.

Despite missing five games, Royals ranked among the FBS leaders in receiving yards per game. His compact frame gives him the strength to work through contact and break tackles, making him a threat beyond just catching passes. Pro Football Focus and top analysts like Dane Brugler and Matt Miller ranked him among the most promising receiver prospects in the draft.

Draft Grades and Value Selection

The Jalen Royals pick received high praise across the board. Experts emphasized his big-play upside and fit within the Chiefs' dynamic offense. USA TODAY’s Chiefs 2025 draft grades called Royals “one of the best bursts in the class” and saw him as a great value in the fourth round. Royals will complement other speedsters on the roster while offering the physicality to handle tough defenders.

Additionally, his experience as a kick-returner adds another layer of versatility, giving Special Teams Coordinator Dave Toub more options on game day.

What’s Next for Royals and the Chiefs?

Kansas City fans can look forward to seeing Jalen Royals make an immediate impact. His track record of big plays and adaptability aligns with Head Coach Andy Reid’s creative play-calling. With the franchise aiming to return to Super Bowl contention, Royals' arrival could help open up the field for Mahomes and stretch opposing defenses.

Want a quick summary of the pick? Check NBC Sports’ coverage of Royals’ selection in the fourth round for additional insights.

Conclusion

Jalen Royals’ journey from overlooked prospect to key NFL draft pick with the Kansas City Chiefs exemplifies perseverance, talent, and big-play potential. Chiefs Kingdom should be excited for what the future holds with Royals joining an already explosive offense. Stay tuned as this dynamic receiver begins his professional career in Kansas City, aiming to become the next breakout star on football’s grandest stage.