By Aaron Webb
One of the best defensive backs in junior college football, Craig Royal Jr., has officially committed to Texas State University. Royal’s choice to join the Bobcats felt like the ideal fit for his goals and skill set following an outstanding season at Butler Community College, where he became one of the most exciting players in the country. According to 247Sports, he is the 65th best overall JuCo player, 9th best CB, and 15th best from Texas.
The path taken by Craig Royal Jr. to enroll at Texas State University has not been typical. Royal, who was born and raised in Houston, Texas, started playing football at Strake Jesuit High School and did not receive any D1 offers. For Royal, this just strengthened his belief in himself, even if it might have easily derailed many athletes. He ended up committing to Bakersfield Commuity College, playing football at the junior college level.
Royal returned home to Houston after his time in California, uncertain of what was ahead. His passion for football remained constant, even though he believed he could have to hang up his cleats for good. Royal’s enthusiasm remained his compass despite the obstacles. He ended up transferring to another JuCo, Butler Community College where he played the 2024 season, recording three interceptions and only giving up two catches for 13 yards in man coverage all year.
Royal would send his workouts and tape to coaches all across the country, spending endless hours perfecting his craft. His skills and his undeniable work ethic were not overlooked. His potential was seen by coaches from multiple FBS teams, including Texas State, Hawaii, Florida International, UTEP, and Tulsa.
On the field, Royal’s ability to maintain his leverage on in-breaking or out-breaking routes is fantastic, along with finishing plays and the ability to stay in a receiver’s hip pocket as well is a recipe for a future elite defensive back at the Division 1 Level. With his 6’3″ 180-pound frame, he projects best as a physical man-to-man cornerback.
Royal believed Texas State University was the best fit for his academic and athletic goals, so he thoroughly considered his options before deciding on the Bobcats. He thought it was the perfect setting for him to develop further and show off his skills. “Everything just made sense,” Royal stated after considering his choice. “I realized at that very instant that this was the perfect fit for me.” Years of perseverance, hard work, and absolute faith in himself played a huge part in this choice.
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Going to a Junior College can end up becoming the best decision for an athlete, and it was for Craig Royal Jr. and he’ll keep his NFL dreams alive and give GJ Kinne a very solid player.
