From Zero-Star Recruit to Mahomes’ Next Favorite Target: The Stunning Rise of Jalen Royals

When the Kansas City Chiefs called Jalen Royals’ name with the 133rd overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, few outside Utah State and die-hard draft watchers knew the full story. But inside the Chiefs’ war room, they knew exactly what they were getting: a dynamic, battle-tested wide receiver whose journey from obscurity to the NFL is nothing short of extraordinary.

Born in Georgia, Royals entered the college recruiting world without a single FBS or FCS scholarship offer — a zero-star recruit by all major scouting services. Undeterred, he enrolled at Georgia Military College, grinding through an unheralded freshman year. It wasn’t until a tryout camp at Utah State that Royals finally caught a real break. From there, he wasted no time making an impact, exploding in 2023 with 71 receptions for 1,080 yards and a school-record 15 touchdowns. His first-team All-Mountain West honors only confirmed what he had known all along: he belonged among the best.

Royals’ electric skill set fits perfectly into Andy Reid’s high-octane offense. At Utah State, he led the FBS with 10 catches of 50-plus yards over two seasons, flashing elite 4.42 speed and slippery yards-after-catch ability. Even after battling a foot injury in 2024 that limited him to seven games, he managed to average an impressive 7.9 yards after the catch and force 17 missed tackles. Royals isn’t just fast — he’s a threat to score every time he touches the ball.

More than just a receiver, Royals also brings special teams value, averaging 20.4 yards per kick return last season. His ability to line up outside, in the slot, or contribute in the return game makes him an ideal chess piece for a Chiefs offense looking to stay ahead of the curve.

With Rashee Rice’s availability uncertain and rookie Xavier Worthy expected to take on a big role, Royals could find himself rising faster than anyone expects. From overlooked recruit to potential Mahomes favorite, Jalen Royals’ story is just beginning — and Kansas City fans might want to buckle up for the ride.