The New England Patriots addressed one of their biggest needs this offseason with the signing of wide receiver Stefon Diggs as the top receiver. But, as good as the two-time All Pro, four-time Pro Bowl receiver looks in his recovery process, adding another weapon is still a focus in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Could that target be Utah State’s Jaylen Royals?
Entering the draft with the No. 4 overall pick, the Patriots are motivated to take the best available player at that spot. That could be either Colorado’s Travis Hunter, Penn State’s Abdul Carter or taking care of their biggest need and going with LSU’s Will Campbell at left tackle. If that player is not Hunter, who is noted as a top receiver prospect in the draft, targeting one on Day 2 is probable. That’s where a talented receiver like Royals comes into play.
Although the draft is not top heavy with wide receiver prospects, there is still some depth in talent at the position. As a late-blooming receiver, Royals has all the traits and intangibles of a solid-to-great NFL receiver. Coming off a season in which he hauled in 55 receptions for 834 yards and 6 touchdowns, Royals stands out as an explosive vertical receiver with natural hands and great route running ability, reminiscent of Diggs.
Jalen Royas has the tools to be a top receiver in the NFL
What also stands out about Royals and his fit with the Patriots is his ability to play outside or in the slot. With offensive coordinator Josh McDaniels back in the mix, a player like Royals could flourish. Think about players like Julian Edelman and Danny Amendola who were similar types of receivers who had the ability to be utilized in different formations. Let’s not forget, Royals is still a player growing into the position, so sky is the limit if he is on the right team, with the right quarterback with the right veterans to learn behind.
With the Patriots, he’ll have a talented quarterback in Drake Maye who loves to get the ball down field. But what will be most beneficial is having Diggs on board as a motivator and a teacher. As Diggs is a player who loves to succeed, his presence and work ethic will help a player like Royals, especially that hunger he has be successful.
Speaking about Diggs, Patriots head coach Mike Vrabel emphasized that hunger within the veteran receiver.
“I think he’s doing everything – like everybody else, he’s working hard, and I think he’s excited about being here and being a Patriots,” Vrabel said. “He’s a motivated player, he’s a hungry player, just like everybody else that’s here and that’s working.”
As much as that hard work is expected to rub off on second year players like Ja’Lynn Polk and Javon Baker, a draft target like Royals would greatly benefit from watching