Draft Analysis: Jalen Royals

• Height: 6’0″
• Weight: 205 lbs.
• College: Utah State
• Tape watched: Boise State, New Mexico, Utah
• NFL Comparison: Christian Kirk

Pros

• YAC

Royals is a hard-nosed runner after the catch. He forced a consistently respectable number of missed tackles over the last two seasons with 16 and 17, respectively. Royals runs behind his pads and fights for extra yards. He has enough lateral agility to slip arm tackles as well.

• Hands

Royals has reliable hands in all situations, with only 3 drops. His 64.1% contested catch rate on 39 targets at his size is incredible. His tenacity at the catch point is commendable and he should be a safe option for quarterbacks in the NFL.

• Route Running

Despite playing in a wide-split offense that limited his target variety, Royals succeeded at every level of the field. His most successful routes were past 20 yards, where his speed and strength to hold his line shined. Royals protected his slant routes with his body and outstretched arms. He has crisp route cuts and a burst at the top of his breaks. Royals possesses one of the top yards per route run stat of 3.00 yards in this class, a huge indicator of success at the next level.

Midline

• Blocking

Royals shows a willingness to contribute to the run game. His stalk can be lazy, and his execution is inconsistent at best.

• Release

Despite limited tools in his release bag, Royals is effective with quick feet and hand usage. He can be muscled off his path occasionally and can struggle to stack against quick man corners.

Cons

• Size

Despite his 6′ 205 pound frame, Royals looks smaller than advertised on the field. He isn’t overly physical in the blocking game or after the catch. Despite his ability to fight through contact on deep routes, he may take a step back in the NFL.

• Route Tree

Royals’ slot work was much more impressive than when he was split outside. The route tree in Utah States offense for perimeter receivers is limiting. They are lined up on the sideline to create space in the middle of the field for their quick RPO-heavy offense. Royals will most likely be utilized as a primary slot receiver with the ability to play perimeter when necessary.

Overview

Jalen Royals has every indication that he will be a steady NFL receiver for several years. His game translates really well to the next level. His athletic profile and upside after the catch are just bonuses to his polish as a receiver.