Charles was originally scouted by Penn State in 2015 as a four-star high school recruit from the New Jersey region. Charles made an impact in 2016 with a crucial 80-yard touchdown reception in a victory over Minnesota after redshirting his first season. He only had two other catches, though.
He didn’t have any receptions in 2017, despite having a significant impact on special teams. He was dismissed from the squad at the conclusion of the season, and he decided not to play in 2018.
He was recruited to IUP in 2019, but after being ruled academically ineligible for his first year, the 2020 season was postponed due to the Covid-19 pandemic. He returned to the field last year and had a successful season with 39 catches, 792 yards, and 12 touchdowns.
Charles attended the College Gridiron Showcase and worked out at Villanova’s pro day, but he was not invited to the scouting combine. Following the draft, the Jets signed him as an undrafted free agent.
Charles is exceptionally tall and has a huge catch radius. He apparently raced under 4.5 in the past, albeit that was a few years ago, as he did in his pro day workout, clocking in at 4.66.
He had exceptional numbers for his size in terms of explosiveness and quickness, including a 6.97 three-cone drill and a 127-inch vertical. He also completed 19 bench press reps.
Where did Irvin Charles go to high school?
Charles attended Paul VI High School in South Jersey, where he was a two-year team captain and was recognized as an all-state player as a senior. Charles was regarded as one of the best prospects in the state of New Jersey in the class of 2015.