Stunning Turnaround: Chase Roberts Decommits from BYU, Flips Commitment to New Orleans Saints

Stunning Turnaround: Chase Roberts Decommits from BYU, Flips Commitment to New Orleans Saints

In a shocking and unprecedented move that has sent tremors across both the college football and NFL landscapes, Chase Roberts, the standout wide receiver for the BYU Cougars, has announced his decommitment from BYU and an immediate transition to the professional ranks with the New Orleans Saints.

In a decision that seemed to come out of nowhere, Roberts, who had been a cornerstone of BYU’s offense and a projected team captain for the upcoming season, has not only walked away from the Cougars’ program but is also bypassing the rest of his collegiate eligibility to sign a surprise contract with the NFL’s New Orleans Saints.

From Cougar Star to NFL Leap

Roberts, a 6-foot-4, 210-pound receiver from American Fork, Utah, had established himself as one of the most reliable and electric wideouts in the country. In 2024, he recorded 82 receptions for 1,145 yards and 9 touchdowns, earning All-Big 12 honors and widespread praise for his physicality, route-running, and clutch performances.

Recruiting insiders had Roberts pegged as a lock to return to BYU for at least one more year, especially with the Cougars looking to make a statement in their second full year in the Big 12. His leadership and experience were expected to anchor an otherwise young receiving corps.

But now, the narrative has dramatically shifted.

Saints Shock the Football World

On Thursday morning, the New Orleans Saints released an official statement confirming that they had signed Roberts to a unique undrafted free agent contract. The Saints, who had been quietly scouting Roberts during the past season, reportedly engaged in private discussions with his representatives following the NFL Draft. Sources indicate that the Saints had attempted to draft Roberts late in the seventh round, but were unable to finalize logistics with his college obligations in time.

Roberts, who has graduated from BYU and is technically eligible for early entry, found a unique loophole under NFL rules that permitted his signing outside of the traditional draft process.

“This is one of the most unique signings in recent NFL history,” said Ian Rapoport of NFL Network. “Chase Roberts effectively decommitted from his college future to go pro — and land in a place where he could make an impact right away.”

According to insiders, Roberts will join the Saints’ rookie mini-camp next week and is expected to compete for a roster spot immediately. With the team looking to inject youth and energy into its receiving corps, Roberts could become a valuable asset in the Saints’ vertical attack.

Reaction from BYU and the College Football World

The response from Provo was swift and somber.

“This is not how we imagined parting ways with Chase,” said BYU head coach Kalani Sitake. “He’s been an incredible part of our program, on and off the field. While we’re disappointed to lose him, we wish him nothing but success in the NFL.”

Teammates expressed a mix of shock and support on social media. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff tweeted, “Still processing this… but proud of you bro. Go kill it.”

College football analysts have expressed concerns about the precedent this move could set. While it’s legal, the unorthodox nature of bypassing traditional draft declarations and eligibility rules is likely to spark discussions in NCAA and NFL offices.

“This could open a Pandora’s box,” said Paul Finebaum. “If other players find similar pathways to go pro without entering the draft or finishing college eligibility, we may see major structural changes to how the pipeline from college to the NFL works.”

Roberts Speaks

Later Thursday, Roberts addressed the media in a surprise video posted to his Instagram page.

“I want to thank BYU, Cougar Nation, and my coaches for believing in me,” Roberts said. “This wasn’t an easy decision. I’ve loved my time in Provo, but I felt the Lord opening a new door for me. The Saints offered me an opportunity I couldn’t pass up. I’m ready for the next chapter.”

Roberts also mentioned the recent passing of his grandfather — a longtime Saints fan — as a major emotional factor in his decision.

“I just felt it was meant to be,” he added. “He always said he’d love to see me in black and gold. This is for him.”

What’s Next?

For BYU, the loss of Roberts is a significant blow. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick will now look to younger receivers like Parker Kingston and Kody Epps to step up in his absence. The Cougars are also expected to be active in the transfer portal to fill the sudden void left by Roberts.

For the Saints, the signing could prove to be a stroke of genius. Head coach Dennis Allen praised Roberts’ maturity and readiness in an off-the-record conversation, noting that “he plays like a pro already.”

Only time will tell whether this bold leap will pay off, but one thing is certain: Chase Roberts has just rewritten the rulebook on how a college career can end — and a professional one can begin.