Breakout offensive weapon viewed as most polarizing tight end in 2025 NFL Draft as analysts debate where he'll be selected
The 2025 NFL Draft class has been correctly described as lacking blue-chip talent. While there are intriguing athletes who profile as starters or even impact bodies, there's a lack of certainty with most guys being considered in the top 15. That's unusual. Miami tight end Elijah Arroyo is hoping his late breakout is enough momentum […]
The 2025 NFL Draft class has been correctly described as lacking blue-chip talent. While there are intriguing athletes who profile as starters or even impact bodies, there's a lack of certainty with most guys being considered in the top 15. That's unusual.
Miami tight end Elijah Arroyo is hoping his late breakout is enough momentum to be drafted highly.
Arroyo is fighting a top-heavy class of peers, and where exactly he stands remains a bit of a question. There are split opinions out there, including on the A to Z Sports staff.
NFL Draft analyst Rob Gregson remains a bit lower on Arroyo, having him currently ranked as his No. 10 tight end in the class. I, in comparison, have him pegged as the No. 3 player in the group. Here is a case for both sides.
Case For Taking Elijah Arroyo Higher
Elijah Arroyo didn't work out at the combine because he didn't need to show anything more after the Senior Bowl. He was the most dominant playmaker at the event, showing off rare speed, separation ability, and catch radius while in team and individual drills. Arroyo was a late bloomer at Miami because of injuries, but the 6-foot-5, 250-pounder is now a top-50 prospect.
On top of excellent movement ability, Arroyo has one of the most efficient catch rates and the second-highest yards after the catch mark in the class. Only three tight ends have a higher average depth of target, but Arroyo's overall profile is more impressive. Plus, teams will love that Arroyo was credited with only one drop this season.
Case Against Taking Elijah Arroyo Higher
Look, there’s nothing wrong with Arroyo. Big target who can move and make plays in space, there’s a a lot to like.
I just happen to like others better in the class. Whether it’s the do it all nature of Tyler Warren, the joker ability of Colston Loveland, or even the intrigued of a player like Fannin, I'd rather go bold then safe when talked about guys past the top 30-40 picks and that’s why I stand where I do on Arroyo.
