Next Gen Stats proves how Chiefs got one of the biggest steals of the 2025 NFL Draft with selection of WR Jalen Royals

Originally posted on A to Z Sports | By Nick Roesch | Last updated Apr 26, 2025 6:55 PM ET

The Kansas City Chiefs raised a lot of eyebrows when they selected Utah State wide receiver Jalen Royals in the fourth round of the 2025 NFL Draft.

Why, you ask? Because not only were experts surprised that Royals was still available at No. 133, but knew that he will fit in perfectly with the Chiefs. It would not have been shocking to see Royals drafted as early as during the second round. Now that Kansas City has him, the rest of the NFL may regret allowing that to happen.

Royals' athleticism makes him a prototypical WR in coach Andy Reid's system. He is a smooth route runner, possesses solid 4.4 40-yard dash speed, and recorded the best 10-yard split by any WR at the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine. The folks at Next Gen Stats had this to say about Royals:

"Royals earned the 6th-highest NGS (Next Gen Stats) overall draft score among wide receivers in this year's class (82), and was one of five WRs to eclipse 75+ in both production and athleticism. When the Chiefs turned in their card, Royals was the last remaining player on the board with an overall score over 80."

RD 4 | PK 133 - Chiefs: Jalen Royals WR, Utah State

Royals earned the 6th-highest NGS overall draft score among wide receivers in this year's class (82), and was one of five WRs to eclipse 75+ in both production and athleticism. When the Chiefs turned in their card, Royals was… pic.twitter.com/ZBySw1V9Ur
— Next Gen Stats (@NextGenStats) April 26, 2025

After not recording a single stat during his first three years at Utah State, Royals burst onto the scene in 2023 with 71 receptions for 1,080 yards and 15 touchdowns. He posted 55 catches for 834 yards and six touchdowns ͏in 20͏24, but a torn deltoid͏ in his͏ right foot prematurely ͏ended his senior season after ͏just seven games.

Royals will have the opportunity to make a big impact for the Chiefs as a rookie. Given Hollywood Brown's injury history and a looming suspension for Rashee Rice, Royals could see plenty of action in 2025. Royals' yards after the catch ability makes him a threat in the short to intermediate passing game, and he also has the ability to stretch the field.

This article first appeared on A to Z Sports and was syndicated with permission.

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