Miami football took a big step forward in 2024, partly due to its potent aerial attack led by Cam Ward, Xavier Restrepo and Elijah Arroyo. As a dynamic pass catcher, Arroyo can line up all over the field. His versatility and big-play ability helped transform Miami’s offense in 2024. With only one strong season of tape to go off, scouts will keep a close eye on Arroyo’s medicals.
6’5″
250 pounds
Arroyo was rated as a top-five tight end prospect in the country coming out of Frisco, Texas. His athleticism and receiving skills caught the attention of many major programs, and he was part of a 2021 recruiting class that included the likes of Kamren Kichens and Brashard Smith. He battled injuries for parts of his college career, so Arroyo’s impact at Miami wasn’t truly felt until 2024. As a Junior, he burst onto the scene with over 500 receiving yards and 7 touchdowns.
His final season at Miami helped Arroyo go from heralded recruit to potential draft gem. The 2025 NFL Draft is filled with dynamic tight ends, but Arroyo is right near the top of the list as a potential impact player at the next level.
Arroyo has optimal physical traits for the position. Tight ends in the NFL need to be able to hold up physically and contribute as blockers. While he is not the best blocking tight end in his class, Arroyo can hold his own as a blocker. His best attribute, however, is his receiving ability. He was moved all around the field at Miami and comes into the NFL with the rare ability to be moved into the slot or out wide. As a receiver, he displays soft hands and stays concentrated through the catch.
In Miami’s aggressive passing attack, Arroyo showed he can win contested catches. He is able to fight off defenders with his big frame and secure the football on tough grabs. Arroyo has the juice to separate but does not have elite speed. His upside as a receiver outweighs his potential limitations as an every-down player.
Injuries will be a concern for Arroyo. Two of his seasons at Miami were cut short because of them, and he skipped Combine workouts because of a knee injury. The tight end position entails a lot of blocking, and Arroyo will be taking hits as a receiver at the next level. His ceiling is high as a prospect, but Arroyo’s health will be one of the biggest concerns about him as a prospect. He could stand to put on some weight to add bulk to his big frame.
Arroyo benefited from the speed Miami had at receiver in 2024, helping him draw favorable matchups at times. His role in the NFL will need to be similar, and he would benefit by going to a team with several solid receiving options in place. It would also benefit Arroyo to be paired with a creative offensive coordinator in the NFL to help maximize his versatility.
Day 2 – Potential Starter
Virginia Tech
Louisville
Duke
Evan Engram
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