Winner: Jalen Royals, WR
Jalen Royals was already a winner the moment the Chiefs called his name during the 2025 NFL Draft—but he kept that momentum going throughout rookie minicamp.
Royals spent three seasons at Utah State, flashing serious playmaking ability in his final two seasons—especially in 2023, when he posted 71 receptions for 1,080 yards and an eye-popping 15 touchdowns. A foot injury cut his 2024 season short, limiting him to just seven games, but he still managed 55 catches for 834 yards and six scores. When healthy, he was a consistent end-zone magnet.
At 6-foot, 205 pounds, Royals has solid size and strong hands. He’s not a burner, but he plays smart. His high football I.Q. and solid route running help him win matchups that raw speed alone can’t.
His body control is one of his defining traits—he knows how to shield defenders, make tough catches in traffic, and adjust on the fly, which will allow him to line up inside or out at receiver.
While defenders won’t lose sleep over his deep speed, his 4.42-second 40-yard dash proves he’s fast enough to keep defenses honest. Kansas City doesn’t need him to be the field-stretching threat—that’s already covered. What they need is another dependable target, especially in the red zone, and Royals fits that bill perfectly.
He averaged over a touchdown per game across his final two college seasons, and that nose for the end zone could quickly earn him trust in Kansas City's offense.
Royals came out of the draft with momentum, and rookie minicamp only confirmed the hype. His arrow is pointing straight up.