Star football player Jalen Coker, previously renowned at Holy Cross, showcases his talent in his debut NFL season
Carolina Panthers' Jalen Coker Shines at NFL Combine
Jalen Coker, a wide receiver for the Carolina Panthers, is one of two Holy Cross Crusaders to have been invited to the NFL Combine. The event, held annually, provides an opportunity for promising football players to showcase their talents in front of a national audience and dozens of NFL scouts.
Coker, who declared for the 2024 NFL Draft on December 1st, 2023, had an impressive college career at Holy Cross. He graduated as one of the most illustrious wide receivers in its football history, with 2,684 career receiving yards and 31 touchdowns. Coker was a cornerstone of the program's three straight Patriot League titles.
Despite not being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Coker signed with the Carolina Panthers as an undrafted free agent in May. His hard work paid off when he was promoted to the active roster on September 24.
Coker's rookie season has been marked by impressive performances. He ended the season with 32 receptions, 487 receiving yards, and two touchdowns, establishing himself as one of the top rookie wide receivers in the NFL. His breakout moment came against the Denver Broncos on October 27, when he caught his first career touchdown on a 15-yard bullet from his quarterback, Bryce Young.
Coker continued to impress in the latter part of the season. He had his best game of the year against the Dallas Cowboys on December 15, with four receptions for 110 yards and an 83-yard game-changing touchdown.
Coker is now one of five active NFL players from Holy Cross, joining Benton Whitley, C.J. Hanson, Liam Anderson, and Kalif Raymond.
While exact NFL statistics for Coker are not yet available, he is one of several FCS wide receivers who have made an impact in the NFL. Darius Cooper from Tarleton State, for example, was signed as an undrafted free agent by the Philadelphia Eagles and made an immediate impact in the 2025 preseason. Other standout FCS wide receivers, such as Bryce Lance (North Dakota State), Jalen Walthall (UIW), and Marquis Buchanan (Rhode Island), have been identified as top FCS WR prospects.
Historically, many FCS wide receivers have had varied success in the NFL, with some becoming key contributors. However, detailed sustained NFL stats for recent FCS receivers like Coker or recent draftees are limited due to their early stage of professional careers.
Regardless, Coker's journey from Holy Cross to the NFL Combine and now the Carolina Panthers is a testament to his talent and determination. As he continues to grow and develop in the NFL, fans can expect to see more impressive performances from this rising star.
- Jalen Coker's illustrious football career at Holy Cross culminated in his selection as one of two Crusaders invited to the NFL Combine, a prestigious sports event for promising American-football players.
- During the combine, Coker showcased his skills in front of NFL scouts, hoping to further enhance his prospects for the NFL Draft.
- After not being selected in the 2024 NFL Draft, Coker's talent didn't go unnoticed, as he was signed by the Carolina Panthers, making his mark in the sports world of the NFL.
- As a rising star in the NFL, Coker's impact is not limited to the Carolina Panthers, but extends to the entire American-football community, serving as an example for other FCS players looking to make it big in the league.
