The Seattle Seahawks selected TE Elijah Arroyo out of Miami with the No. 50 overall pick in the second round of the 2025 NFL Draft. In the 2024 season, he amassed 35 receptions for 590 yards and seven touchdowns, and showcased his potential as a dynamic offensive weapon. NFL teams seemed to have taken note of his capabilities, although his injury history remained a consideration in evaluations.
Jeremy Fowler of ESPN even reported, that despite landing in the area that mock drafts projected, Arroyo could have gone higher based off of where multiple teams had him on their big boards.
Multiple teams had Elijah Arroyo as a top 20-25 overall talent in the draft save durability concerns. Seattle gets him at No. 50 overall.
— Jeremy Fowler (@JFowlerESPN) April 26, 2025
Arroyo's injury history is extensive and despite being able to put it all together this past season, questions remained about his durability. His injury history goes as follows:
2022 Season – Torn ACL (Right Knee)
In his sophomore year, Arroyo suffered a torn ACL in his right knee during the fourth game of the season. This injury sidelined him for the remainder of the year.
2023 Season – Lingering Knee Issues
Despite efforts to return, Arroyo's recovery from the ACL injury was protracted. He managed to participate in only four games during the 2023 season, recording a single 11-yard reception.
2024 Season – Knee Injury at Senior Bowl
After a successful 2024 season, Arroyo sustained a minor knee injury during the Senior Bowl. This setback prevented him from participating in drills at the NFL Combine. This injury was perhaps the nail in the coffin for Arroyo's first round hopes. After a healthy season, he tweaked his knee and the doubts began to creep back in.
A second round selection is a major accomplishment for any football player so despite Arroyo slipping because of the concerns, his story remains one of success and triumph. Arroyo was the fifth TE selected and third in the second round.