Elijah Arroyo Miami TE Emerges as Key Offensive Weapon for 2025 Season
Elijah Arroyo stands out as one of the more intriguing tight end prospects in college football. The 6’4″ Miami Hurricanes tight end has shown flashes of brilliance throughout his collegiate career. Arroyo has over 1,200 yards and 17 receiving touchdowns during his two varsity seasons before Miami. This projects him as a legitimate Power Five player with long-term NFL Draft potential.
Born on April 5, 2003, Arroyo arrived at Miami as a highly-touted recruit, ranked as the No. 10 tight end nationally and the No. 37 player in Texas according to Rivals. His combination of size, hands, and route-running ability makes him a matchup nightmare for opposing defenses. The Hurricanes have historically produced notable tight end talent, and Arroyo appears poised to continue that tradition as he develops his game.
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Elijah Arroyo’s Player Profile
Elijah Arroyo has emerged as one of college football’s most promising tight end prospects. His combination of size, speed, and playmaking ability has positioned him as a potential early-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Early Life and High School Career
Hailing from Frisco, Texas, Arroyo developed into a standout tight end prospect at Independence High School. His senior season showcased his big-play ability, as he hauled in 28 catches for 635 yards and 12 touchdowns. The impressive 22.7 yards per catch average highlighted his downfield threat potential.
Recruiting services took notice of his talent. Rivals ranked Arroyo as the No. 10 tight end nationally and the No. 37 player in Texas. His two varsity seasons yielded over 1,200 yards and 17 receiving touchdowns, establishing him as a premier red zone target.
The recruiting battle for Arroyo was fierce, with multiple Power Five programs pursuing his signature. His combination of size, hands, and route-running made him a coveted prospect in the 2021 recruiting class.
Transition to the Miami Hurricanes
Arroyo chose Miami to develop his skills in a program known for producing NFL tight end talent. His early career with the Hurricanes showed flashes of his playmaking ability, though he needed time to adjust to the college game’s speed and complexity.
His role in Miami’s offense expanded as he mastered the playbook and refined his blocking techniques. Coaches praised his work ethic and football IQ, essential traits for tight ends who must excel in both passing and running situations.
Arroyo’s development at Miami followed the classic trajectory of many tight end prospects. Initial growing pains gave way to increased production and confidence. His ability to create mismatches became increasingly evident, particularly against linebackers in coverage.
By his junior season, Arroyo had established himself as a reliable target and key offensive weapon for the Hurricanes. His versatility allowed coaches to deploy him in multiple alignments, creating favorable matchups.
Physical Attributes and Athleticism
At the tight end position, physical tools matter, and Arroyo possesses them in abundance. NFL scouts have taken notice of his frame, which combines ideal size with functional strength and fluidity.
His 4.69 forty-yard dash time demonstrates the speed that makes him a vertical threat. This athleticism separates him from many tight end prospects who lack his ability to stretch defenses and create separation.
Arroyo’s catch radius stands out on film. His long arms and strong hands allow him to make contested catches beyond his frame, making him particularly dangerous in red zone situations. This skill translates directly to the next level.
| Attribute | Measurement | Draft Ranking |
|---|---|---|
| Position | Tight End | #4 TE (2025) |
| Rating | 85.1 | Projected Round 2-3 |
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.69 | Above average for TE |
| Style | Flex/F Tight End | Red zone threat |
Draft analysts project Arroyo as a Flex(F) tight end with high-playmaking ceiling, capable of creating mismatches from multiple alignments in NFL passing schemes.
Statistical Overview
Elijah Arroyo has emerged as one of Miami’s most productive tight ends, putting together impressive numbers that showcase his ability to impact games. His combination of receiving skills and physical play makes him a complete tight end prospect.
Receiving Yards and Touchdowns
Arroyo’s 2024 campaign has been nothing short of remarkable. He’s currently sitting at 35 receptions for 590 yards and 7 touchdowns, averaging an impressive 16.9 yards per catch. This production puts him among the elite tight ends in college football.
The 6’4″, 245-pound Hurricane has been particularly effective stretching the field. His ability to exploit the seams vertically has made him a favorite target in crucial situations.
Over his career at Miami, Arroyo has appeared in 34 games, developing from a rotational player into a featured weapon in the Hurricanes’ offense.
| Season | Receptions | Yards | TDs | Avg/Catch |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2024 | 35 | 590 | 7 | 16.9 |
Tackles and Blocking Impact
While his receiving numbers grab headlines, Arroyo’s blocking ability elevates his all-around game. NFL scouts have taken notice of his willingness to engage defenders and create running lanes for Miami’s ground attack.
His blocking technique has improved significantly during his time with the Hurricanes, making him a true three-down tight end prospect. Arroyo doesn’t shy away from contact, often finishing blocks with authority.
This complete skill set has pushed him up draft boards. Currently ranked as the #4 tight end prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft with an overall ranking of #72, Arroyo projects as a third-round selection.
His ability to contribute immediately in both the passing and running game makes him particularly attractive to NFL teams looking for versatile tight ends who don’t need to leave the field on specific downs.
Notable Games and Performances
Elijah Arroyo has delivered several standout performances during his time with the Miami Hurricanes, showcasing his versatility and skill as a tight end. His ability to create mismatches and deliver in crucial moments has made him a valuable offensive weapon.
Memorable Matchups Against ACC Teams
Arroyo’s development as an elite tight end has been on full display against ACC competition. Against Virginia Tech in 2023, he hauled in five catches for 72 yards, consistently finding soft spots in the Hokies’ zone coverage.
His performance against Florida State demonstrated his red zone value, where he secured a crucial touchdown grab that showcased his strong hands in traffic. The 6’4″ tight end proved particularly difficult for undersized ACC defensive backs to handle.
When facing Louisville, Arroyo recorded six receptions for 83 yards, repeatedly converting on third downs. His reliability as a safety valve for Miami quarterbacks has been most evident in conference play.
Currently ranked as the #4 tight end prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft, scouts have praised his route-running precision against ACC opponents.
Breakout Performances at Hard Rock Stadium
The home crowd at Hard Rock Stadium has witnessed some of Arroyo’s most impressive performances. His 2024 season opener against Florida was particularly noteworthy, as he recorded four catches for 89 yards.
Against Florida A&M at home, Arroyo scored a 17-yard touchdown, showing his ability to find the end zone. His yards-after-catch ability has consistently energized the home crowd.
Arroyo’s Key Home Game Statistics (2024)
| Opponent | Catches | Yards | TDs | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Florida | 4 | 89 | 0 | Season opener |
| Florida A&M | 1 | 17 | 1 | Red zone threat |
| Georgia Tech | 5 | 63 | 1 | 3 third-down conversions |
NFL scouts have been particularly impressed with Arroyo’s blocking at Hard Rock, where he’s consistently helped establish Miami’s run game. His well-rounded skill set allows him to line up anywhere on the field, providing valuable formation versatility.
Miami Hurricanes’ Offensive System
The Miami Hurricanes have developed an offensive system that maximizes the talents of their tight ends, particularly Elijah Arroyo. This scheme emphasizes both vertical passing concepts and traditional power running, giving tight ends diverse responsibilities that showcase their complete skill sets.
Integration in the Passing Game
In Miami’s passing attack, Arroyo has emerged as a critical component rather than an afterthought. The Hurricanes frequently deploy him in multiple alignments—inline, in the slot, and occasionally split wide—creating matchup problems for opposing defenses.
Miami’s system features seam routes that allow tight ends to exploit the middle of the field. Arroyo has thrived in this role, ranking fifth on the team in catches (35) and fourth in receiving yards (590) last season.
The Hurricanes’ play-action packages heavily involve tight end targets, particularly in red zone situations where Arroyo’s 6’4″ frame creates advantages. His seven touchdown receptions placed him third on the team, demonstrating his value in scoring situations.
Arroyo’s Production in Passing Game
| Stat Category | Total | Team Rank |
|---|---|---|
| Receptions | 35 | 5th |
| Receiving Yards | 590 | 4th |
| Touchdown Catches | 7 | 3rd |
NFL scouts have taken notice of how effectively Miami’s scheme showcases Arroyo’s receiving skills, contributing to his projected third-round draft status with potential to rise as high as the second round.
Rushing Plays and TE Blocking Schemes
Miami’s ground game heavily incorporates tight end blocking, with Arroyo demonstrating significant improvement in this area. The Hurricanes frequently run power and counter plays behind their tight ends, requiring both technique and strength.
The offensive system features 12 personnel packages (one running back, two tight ends) that maximize blocking advantages while maintaining passing threats. Arroyo’s development as a blocker has been evident in Miami’s improved rushing efficiency when running to his side.
Gap schemes are a staple of the Hurricanes’ approach, with tight ends responsible for sealing edges or kicking out defenders. Arroyo’s versatility allows coaches to deploy him across multiple blocking assignments rather than limiting him to a single role.
Over his 34 collegiate games and 997 snaps, Arroyo has developed into a complete tight end within Miami’s system. His blocking proficiency complements his receiving skills, making him an authentic three-down player at the position.
NFL evaluators particularly value his improvement in pass protection schemes, where Miami’s system has given him experience picking up blitzers—a skill that translates directly to professional requirements.
Coaching Influence
Elijah Arroyo’s development at Miami has been shaped significantly by the coaching staff’s vision and expertise. The tight end position has historically been a strength for the Hurricanes program, producing NFL talents like Jeremy Shockey and Greg Olsen.
Mario Cristobal’s Impact on Arroyo’s Development
When Mario Cristobal took over the Miami program, he brought a clear philosophy that emphasized tight end usage in both the passing game and blocking schemes. Under Cristobal’s system, Arroyo transformed from a pass-catching specialist into a complete tight end who enjoys blocking.
Cristobal’s pro-style offense has been instrumental in preparing Arroyo for the NFL. The coach’s emphasis on physical play at the line of scrimmage helped Arroyo develop the blocking skills that have impressed scouts at the Senior Bowl.
The relationship between Cristobal and Arroyo became particularly important during the player’s recovery from a major knee injury. Cristobal’s patient approach allowed Arroyo to fully heal before returning to form as one of the most explosive tight ends in the country in 2024.
TE Coaches and Mentorship
Tight ends coach Cody Woodiel has been credited with refining Arroyo’s technical skills. Woodiel spoke recently about the tight end room at Miami, highlighting the foundation built during Arroyo’s time with the program.
The Hurricanes’ coaching staff fostered an environment where Arroyo could learn from veteran teammates. Playing alongside experienced tight end Cam McCormick provided Arroyo with a mentor who understood both the physical and mental aspects of the position.
Arroyo has also benefited from Miami’s legacy of elite tight ends. The program’s tradition of producing NFL stars like Jeremy Shockey and Greg Olsen created a blueprint for success that coaches referenced in Arroyo’s development.
His impressive 2024 campaign (35 receptions, 590 yards, 7 touchdowns) represents the culmination of this coaching influence, positioning him as a rising prospect on NFL draft boards heading into the 2025 draft.
Pre-NFL Draft Analysis
Elijah Arroyo’s draft stock has seen a significant rise following his breakthrough 2024 season at Miami. After battling through injuries in previous years, scouts are now focused on his impressive combination of size, speed, and receiving ability that make him one of the top tight end prospects in the 2025 class.
Performance at the NFL Scouting Combine
Arroyo turned heads at the NFL Scouting Combine with his athletic testing numbers. His 4.69 forty time ranked among the best for tight ends, confirming what scouts saw on film – this kid can move.
At 6’4″ and 245 pounds, Arroyo posted a 35-inch vertical jump that showcased his explosiveness. His agility drills particularly impressed evaluators, as he demonstrated the twitchy movement skills that make him such a matchup problem.
The interview portions went equally well. Team executives came away impressed with his football IQ and understanding of route concepts. One AFC scout noted, “He processes the game at a high level for someone who hasn’t had tons of playing time.”
| Combine Measurement | Result | TE Position Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 40-Yard Dash | 4.69 | 4th |
| Vertical Jump | 35″ | 6th |
| Broad Jump | 10’1″ | 5th |
| Bench Press | 22 reps | 7th |
Pro Day Showcasing and Workouts
Arroyo’s Pro Day at Miami further solidified his draft positioning. He improved his 40 time slightly to 4.67 seconds and looked exceptionally fluid in positional drills. His route-running drew praise from scouts in attendance.
During catching drills, Arroyo displayed natural hands and body control, snagging passes cleanly away from his frame. His ability to adjust to off-target throws stood out as an NFL-ready skill. This performance reinforced what he showed in his 2024 game tape.
Arroyo has been training at Bommarito Performance Systems in South Florida, a facility known for producing NFL-ready athletes. His work there has focused on improving his blocking technique, which remains the biggest question mark in his game.
Several NFL teams have scheduled private workouts with Arroyo, including three with teams selecting in the top 20 of the first round.
Injury History and Recovery
The primary concern for teams evaluating Arroyo remains his injury history. He suffered a torn ACL early in the 2022 season that limited him to just three games.
His recovery extended into 2023, where he appeared in only six games and recorded just three catches. Medical evaluations at the Combine proved crucial, with team doctors giving positive reports on the stability of his knee.
Arroyo’s breakout 2024 season demonstrated that he has fully recovered, as he played in all 13 games while showing no limitations in his movement or cutting ability. This clean bill of health has helped elevate him into consideration as a potential Day 2 selection.
Teams will need to balance his tremendous upside as a modern move tight end with the risk posed by his injury background. His medical checks and impressive physical testing suggest the knee issues are behind him.
Comparisons to Professional Tight Ends
Elijah Arroyo’s skill set and physical attributes have drawn comparisons to several successful NFL tight ends. His route-running ability and athleticism place him in conversations with some of the league’s top players at the position.
Similarities to David Njoku
When watching Arroyo’s tape, it’s difficult not to see shades of David Njoku of the Cleveland Browns. Both possess impressive size-speed combinations that create matchup nightmares for defenders.
Njoku, at 6’4″ and 245 pounds, has become a focal point in the Browns’ passing attack. Arroyo, with similar measurements, shows the same potential to stretch the seam and create after the catch.
Their athletic profiles align closely as well. Both excel at using their body positioning to shield defenders and make contested catches in traffic.
| Attribute | Arroyo | Njoku |
|---|---|---|
| Height | 6’4″ | 6’4″ |
| Weight | 245 lbs | 245 lbs |
| Catch Radius | Excellent | Excellent |
| YAC Ability | Above Average | Above Average |
| Draft Projection | 3rd-4th Round | 1st Round (2017) |
Arroyo’s draft stock currently places him as a Day 2 or early Day 3 selection, but his natural receiving ability could see him rise with strong pre-draft workouts.
Legacy of Miami’s TE in the NFL
Miami has a storied tradition of sending tight ends to the NFL, with Arroyo looking to add his name to that impressive list. The program that produced Jeremy Shockey and Greg Olsen has continued to be “Tight End U” for many observers.
Shockey’s physicality and Olsen’s route precision represent different styles that have succeeded at the next level. Arroyo seems to blend elements of both, showing Olsen’s feel for soft spots in coverage with Shockey’s yards-after-catch potential.
His versatility as a big slot receiver mimics how many Miami tight ends have been utilized in the NFL. This position flexibility has become increasingly valuable in modern offensive schemes.
Miami’s tight end development program has helped Arroyo refine his blocking technique, an area where many college tight ends struggle. While not yet elite in this department, his willingness to engage defenders shows promise for further development.
Impact on Miami’s Team Dynamics
Elijah Arroyo transformed Miami’s offense in 2024, becoming a centerpiece that helped elevate the Hurricanes to new heights. His presence created matchup problems for opposing defenses and opened up the field for his teammates.
Chemistry With Quarterback Cam Ward
The Arroyo-Ward connection quickly became one of the most lethal in college football. Their timing developed almost instantaneously, with Ward finding Arroyo in crucial situations throughout the season.
When protection broke down, Arroyo proved to be Ward’s safety valve. The quarterback trusted him implicitly on third downs, where Arroyo converted 17 of his 23 receptions into first downs.
“Cam and I just clicked from day one,” Arroyo explained after the Florida State game. “He knows where I’ll be, and I know where he wants to put the ball.”
Their red zone chemistry particularly stood out, with Arroyo hauling in 8 touchdowns during his Miami career. Six of those came in 2024 alone, highlighting their growing rapport.
| Arroyo-Ward Connection 2024 | Stats |
|---|---|
| Targets | 64 |
| Completions | 46 |
| Yards | 753 |
| TDs | 6 |
| 3rd Down Conversion Rate | 73.9% |
Role in Offensive Plays and Strategies
Miami’s offensive coordinator leveraged Arroyo’s versatility by lining him up all over the field. This created defensive confusion and allowed the Hurricanes to exploit mismatches.
Arroyo wasn’t merely a pass-catcher. His blocking improved significantly in 2024, though his run blocking grade ranked 50th among 140 tight ends with at least 200 run blocking snaps.
The “Y-Cross” became Miami’s signature play with Arroyo. The design allowed him to find soft spots in zone coverage or beat man coverage with his athleticism and route-running precision.
Despite being labeled as a finesse player, Arroyo consistently showed toughness. He challenged stereotypes by making contested catches in traffic and fighting for extra yards.
His production spiked dramatically in clutch moments, with 37% of his receiving yards coming in the fourth quarter of one-score games.
Emerging from the Shadows
Elijah Arroyo’s journey at Miami has been marked by patience and perseverance. After minimal production in previous seasons, the talented tight end finally showcased his potential in 2024, positioning himself as a legitimate NFL prospect.
Rise to Prominence After Senior Bowl
Arroyo’s stock skyrocketed following an impressive performance at the Senior Bowl, where scouts got an extended look at his athleticism and receiving ability. The 6’4″ tight end displayed soft hands and surprising speed for his size, creating separation against some of the nation’s top defensive backs.
What made his Senior Bowl showing particularly noteworthy was the contrast to his previous production. After recording just six combined catches over two seasons, Arroyo’s route-running precision caught evaluators’ attention.
“He moves like a big receiver,” noted one AFC scout in attendance. “The way he creates space at the top of routes is something you can’t teach.”
Arroyo’s 2024 stats reflected his breakthrough:
| Category | 2024 Season |
|---|---|
| Receptions | 41 |
| Receiving Yards | 527 |
| Touchdowns | 5 |
| YPC | 12.9 |
His draft projection has improved significantly, with most analysts now seeing him as a potential Day 2 selection with high-risk, high-reward potential.
Competing with Teammates for the TE Position
Arroyo’s emergence wasn’t guaranteed at Miami. He battled several talented tight ends for playing time. The Hurricanes’ depth chart featured Riley Williams and Cam McCormick, both highly regarded in ACC circles.
What separated Arroyo was his connection with quarterback Sam Brown, who praised his leadership and reliability. Their chemistry became evident in critical third-down situations, where Arroyo became Brown’s safety valve.
Following in Will Mallory’s footsteps wasn’t easy, as the former Miami standout set a high bar for tight end play. But Arroyo carved out his own identity through exceptional blocking and downfield receiving.
“I focused on becoming a complete tight end,” Arroyo mentioned during media availability. “The NFL wants guys who can both block and stretch the field.”
His versatility ultimately earned him first-team reps. It also established him as one of the ACC’s premier tight ends heading into the 2025 NFL Draft.
Elijah Arroyo’s Future Outlook
Elijah Arroyo stands at the crossroads of potential and opportunity as he prepares for the next chapter of his football journey. The 6’5″ Miami tight end has shown flashes of brilliance that have intrigued NFL scouts despite his limited playing time earlier in his collegiate career.
What jumps off the tape immediately is Arroyo’s ability as a pass-catcher. He profiles as a modern move tight end who can create matchup problems from multiple alignments in an NFL passing game, something increasingly valuable in today’s league.
His combination of size and athleticism makes him an intriguing prospect, though he remains somewhat raw. Arroyo will need time to develop, as he’s shown to be capable, if not talented, but requires polish to reach his ceiling.
The elite ball skills, speed, and playmaking ability he’s flashed cannot be taught – these natural talents give him significant upside if he can stay healthy and continue to develop technically.
NFL Draft Projection:
| Metric | Value |
|---|---|
| Overall Rank | 63rd |
| Position Rank | TE4 |
| Projected Round | 2-3 |
| 40-yard Dash | 4.67s |
| Vertical Jump | 36.5″ |
| Catch Radius | Above Average |
At the NFL Combine, Arroyo’s testing confirmed what scouts had seen on film – an athletic tight end with good movement skills. While he isn’t the fastest at his position, his functional speed on the field translates well to the pro game.
Teams like the Denver Broncos could target him on day two of the draft, seeing him as a developmental prospect with starter upside. His ability to line up in multiple spots will appeal to creative offensive coordinators.
The biggest concern remains his technique and overall balance when engaging defenders. This rawness suggests he won’t be an immediate impact player but rather a developmental prospect with significant upside.
