Top WR Chase Robert Decommits from BYU, Chooses Alabama Over Auburn & Georgia

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Top WR Chase Robert Decommits from BYU, Chooses Alabama Over Auburn & Georgia

Chase Roberts emerged as one of BYU’s top playmakers in the 2024 season. He led the team with 51 receptions, 843 yards, and four touchdowns, proving to be a crucial asset in BYU’s offense. Standing at 6-foot-4 and 210 pounds, he possesses the size, speed, and route-running ability that made him an attractive prospect to many Power Five programs.

Coming out of American Fork High School in Utah, Roberts was a highly rated recruit but ultimately chose to play for BYU, a program with strong ties to the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His decision aligned with the trend of many local stars opting to stay close to home.

However, Roberts’ stock rose dramatically in 2024 as he consistently made big plays against some of the best defenses in the Big 12 Conference. Despite BYU’s struggles throughout the season, he remained one of the most reliable offensive weapons for the Cougars.

Why Did Roberts Decommit?

While details remain unclear, several factors may have contributed to his decision:

1. NIL Opportunities and Bigger Market Exposure

The landscape of college football has changed significantly with the introduction of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals. Players can now earn significant compensation, and larger programs such as Alabama, Georgia, and Texas often provide more lucrative NIL opportunities.

BYU has some level of NIL support, but it doesn’t compare to the financial backing seen in SEC and Big Ten programs. Roberts may have seen an opportunity to maximize his earnings while also playing on a larger national stage.

2. The Appeal of the SEC and Powerhouse Programs

The SEC is considered the most competitive conference in college football. Schools like Alabama and Georgia consistently produce first-round NFL draft picks, particularly at the wide receiver position.

Alabama has a rich history of developing elite wide receivers, including:

  • Julio Jones

  • Amari Cooper

  • Calvin Ridley

  • Jerry Jeudy

  • DeVonta Smith

  • Jaylen Waddle

Seeing the track record of development at Alabama and Georgia, Roberts may have felt that transferring would give him a better chance to prepare for the NFL Draft.

3. Coaching and Team Performance

BYU finished the 2024 season with a disappointing record, struggling against some of the tougher competition in the Big 12. If Roberts felt that BYU’s offensive system wasn’t showcasing his full potential, transferring to a team with a more dynamic passing attack may have been an attractive option.

Coaching also plays a role. Alabama’s offensive coordinator and wide receiver coaches have a strong track record of developing NFL-ready talent. If Alabama’s offensive scheme suited his skill set better, it would make sense for him to consider that move.

Choosing Alabama Over Auburn & Georgia

If Roberts ultimately chose Alabama, it indicates that he prioritized elite coaching, NFL development, and championship aspirations.

  • Why Not Georgia? Georgia, while dominant in the SEC, is more of a defensive powerhouse and tends to rely on tight ends and a power running game rather than a pass-heavy system.

  • Why Not Auburn? Auburn has been rebuilding and doesn’t have the same level of quarterback play or offensive firepower as Alabama.

At Alabama, Roberts would likely compete for a starting role immediately, and he’d have the chance to catch passes from a top-tier quarterback—a key factor for receivers looking to improve their draft stock.

What’s Next for Chase Roberts?

If Roberts has truly committed to Alabama, he’ll have to:

  1. Adjust to a new system – Alabama’s offense is fast-paced, dynamic, and demands precision.

  2. Compete for a starting spot – While talented, he’ll have to prove himself among other elite wide receivers.

  3. Showcase his skills for the NFL – A strong season in Tuscaloosa could make him a Day 1 or Day 2 NFL Draft pick in 2026.

While there are conflicting reports about Chase Roberts’ future, if he has indeed flipped to Alabama, it marks a huge shift for both him and BYU. It highlights the growing power of NIL, the dominance of SEC football, and the importance of player development for NFL aspirations.

Roberts’ decision will undoubtedly shake up the wide receiver landscape for the 2025 college football season. Whether he becomes a breakout star at Alabama remains to be seen, but all signs point to him making a significant impact wherever he lands.

 

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