Reportedly: Chase Roberts’ Draft Stock Soaring After Pro Day Speed Show
Reportedly: Chase Roberts’ Draft Stock Soaring After Pro Day Speed Show
The "Case for Chase" has officially gained significant momentum. BYU wide receiver Chase Roberts entered the 2026 NFL draft cycle with one major question mark looming over his 6-foot-4 frame: could he actually run? After a somewhat disappointing 4.64-second 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine in Indianapolis, critics were quick to label the Cougars' captain as a possession receiver with a limited ceiling. However, Roberts silenced those doubters at the BYU Pro Day on March 20, clocking a much-improved 4.51-second 40-yard dash, a time that has reportedly forced NFL scouts to re-evaluate his game film.
This surge in speed metrics is exactly what Roberts needed to complement his already polished skill set. Known for his impeccable route running, vice-grip hands, and high football IQ, the Utah native has been the engine of the BYU offense for the past two years. By proving he has the "football speed" to match his technical proficiency, Roberts has moved from a fringe late-round prospect to a firm Day 3 target, with some scouts suggesting he could even slip into the late fourth round for a team seeking a big-bodied "Z" receiver.
The Heartbeat of a 12-Win Powerhouse
Roberts' 2025 season was nothing short of exceptional, as he led the BYU Cougars to an incredible 12-1 record, one of the most successful campaigns in the program's modern history. As a senior captain, he hauled in 54 receptions for 802 yards and 6 touchdowns, providing a reliable safety net for breakout freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier. While those numbers might not scream "Heisman candidate," his impact was felt in critical moments, particularly on third downs and in red-zone situations where his size and box-out technique were unmatched.
Head coach Kalani Sitake has frequently praised Roberts for his leadership and professionalism, comparing his preparation to that of an NFL veteran. Following in the footsteps of former BYU star Puka Nacua, Roberts has shown the ability to win at all three levels of the field. His Pro Day performance also included a 36-inch vertical leap and fluid positional drills that showcased his ability to sink his hips and transition out of breaks—traits that are rare for a receiver of his stature.
A Potential Draft Day Bargain
As the draft draws near, Roberts is being linked to several teams looking for a "big slot" or perimeter depth. The Dallas Cowboys and Minnesota Vikings have reportedly kept a close eye on his progress, valuing his ability to make tough catches in traffic. While he may never be a 100-yard-per-game burner, his consistency and maturity make him a low-risk, high-reward option for teams that prioritize reliability over raw athleticism.
With his 4.51 speed now officially on the books, the narrative that Roberts is too slow for the NFL has been largely debunked. As he prepares for the final two weeks before the draft, the BYU standout remains focused on proving that his "nastiness" as a blocker and his elite ball-tracking skills will translate to the professional level. Whether he hears his name called in the fifth or seventh round, Chase Roberts has undeniably put the NFL on notice.
