PROVO, Utah — For Chase Roberts, the 2025 football season with the BYU Cougars feels both familiar and unfamiliar. Once again, he enters a new campaign with another quarterback under center — this time, true freshman Bear Bachmeier. But while the constant turnover at QB has been a storyline throughout his career, Roberts says that’s not where the pressure lies.
Roberts, now one of BYU’s most established offensive leaders, has grown used to adapting. His career has seen him catch passes from Jaren Hall, Kedon Slovis, Jake Retzlaff, and now Bachmeier. The changes haven’t slowed his productivity. In fact, Roberts is coming off his best season yet, posting 52 receptions for 854 yards and 4 touchdowns in 2024, numbers that placed him among the top receivers in the Big 12.
But 2025 brings unique challenges. With Darius Lassiter and Keelan Marion gone, Roberts is now the only returning starter in the wide receiver corps, placing the responsibility of guiding younger teammates squarely on his shoulders. Rising talents like JoJo Phillips and Parker Kingston will need to step up, and Roberts knows his leadership both on and off the field is crucial.
What sets Roberts apart is that his pressure doesn’t come from chasing stats. Though he has a clear goal of reaching the 1,000-yard milestone and positioning himself for a shot at the NFL Draft, Roberts emphasizes a different motivation.
“I don’t play for accolades,” Roberts said. “I play for my teammates, for my brothers, and for something bigger than football.”
For the Cougars, who kick off their season on August 30 against Portland State, Roberts isn’t just their top target — he’s their tone-setter. If Bachmeier settles in quickly and Roberts continues his rise, BYU’s offense could surprise the Big 12 once again.
