Kansas City Chiefs fans are already beyond excited for the regular season debut of impressive rookie receiver Jalen Royals. Watching how quickly Royals has managed to earn the trust of Andy Reid and Patrick Mahomes speaks volumes. It has led to consistent comparisons to Rashee Rice. While this might be a bit unfair to the rookie, it speaks volumes about the excitement and expectations building around the young pass catcher.
Royals not only has cemented his roster spot but has also done enough to be considered an early-season option. This will especially be the case if Rashee Rice misses time due to suspension. Kansas City has great depth at receiver, but after Rice, it lacks a clear primary option. Even with the depth improving, the Chiefs need another consistent target to emerge.
Travis Kelce is a legend, but he cannot handle the volume of years past. The Chiefs must find enough reliable weapons to keep Kelce healthy and fresh for the games when they actually begin to matter. All of this helps explain why Kansas City fans are so excited about the rookie’s early success. Excitement that will continue to build after Royals made yet another great preseason play in Friday night’s road action.
— KC Sports Network (@KCSportsNetwork) August 16, 2025
Chiefs Rookie Jalen Royals Makes Impressive Play in Kansas City Preseason Action
Royals returned a kick in Friday’s game and took the ball to midfield, showing off blazing speed and the ability to create space. If not for an amazing play by Seattle’s kicker, Royals would’ve easily scored. It was yet another flash of what the rookie brings to the offense, and perhaps as a special teams contributor.
Kansas City appears to have landed a bargain drafting Royals in what is a strong receiver class. The rookie making plays so early wasn’t expected with far more established options competing for the same reps. The moment and pressure of playing for the most talked-about team in the league weren’t too much for Royals. It seems the rookie has embraced the opportunity and has zero fear.
Friday’s play only adds to this belief as the rookie shows an ability to contribute to winning apart from playing the receiver position. While much of Friday’s preseason game can be flushed, Royals’ return was a rare bright spot in a game that seemed like the Chiefs were just going through the motions. Understandable for an experienced playoff team that appears to have the needed pieces to continue a long run of dominance.
