Can Jalen Royals be the next Tyreek Hill for Patrick Mahomes and Kansas City Chiefs?

The 2025 NFL Draft had its share of big names and high expectations, but one player who quietly made waves was Jalen Royals. While he may not have played at a football powerhouse, his selection by the Kansas City Chiefs in the fourth round could be the move that surprises many. With Patrick Mahomes leading the charge, Royals is now part of the winningest franchise in recent history and he's ready to make his mark. Could Royals evolve into Mahomes’ next go-to deep threat, replacing the explosive role once filled by Tyreek Hill? Let’s dive into why this pick could be a game-changer for the Chiefs.


Standing at 6 feet tall, Jalen Royals isn’t your typical, household-name college star. His college journey took a nontraditional path, starting at Georgia Military College before transferring to Utah State, where he found his stride. Despite not playing in the spotlight of a major college program, Royals demonstrated immense talent and determination to prove he belongs. With a blazing 4.42-second 40-yard dash, his speed is undeniable, a key asset in the Chiefs’ explosive offensive system.
Royals’ big-play ability is his standout trait. In 2023, he electrified the field with seven touchdowns of 50+ yards, showcasing his ability to change the game in an instant. Although his 2024 season was hampered by injuries, the Chiefs are betting on his recovery and are eager to unlock his potential. With the right conditions, Royals could be the Chiefs' next star in the making.

While Kansas City’s wide receiver room already has several promising names like Rashee Rice and Hollywood Brown, the addition of Royals adds a unique element. The Chiefs are no strangers to making game-changing plays, and Royals’ speed and ability to stretch the field will bring an added layer to an already explosive offense.
Royals may not start right away, but with the guidance of Mahomes and a well-oiled Chiefs offense, he has the potential to evolve into a deep threat the team can rely on. His ability to run past defenders and create separation makes him a valuable asset, especially in a system built on high-scoring plays.
NFL experts, including ESPN’s Matt Miller, are high on Royals’ future, noting that Mahomes will “love this guy.” As Royals fine-tunes his skills and gains experience, expect him to grow into one of Mahomes’ trusted weapons, just as Tyreek Hill once was.
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For the Chiefs, the addition of Royals is more than just another draft pick; it’s a potential game-changer who could elevate an already dominant offense. As the team continues to dominate the league, Royals’ big-play potential might just be the next chapter in Kansas City’s football dynasty.