Xavier Restrepo declares for NFL Draft and reportedly opts out of Pop-Tarts Bowl

Xavier Restrepo, who set multiple Miami career and single-season receiving records, formerly declared for the NFL Draft on Saturday and is not expected to play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl on Saturday, per numerous reports. Restrepo chose to opt out of the Pop-Tarts Bowl, despite Miami quarterback Cam Ward playing.

Restrepo declared for the NFL Draft with his eligibility expiring this season. Without Restrepo, sophomore Ray Ray Joseph will likely start for Miami in the slot. Freshmen wide receivers Ny Carr, Chance Robinson and JoJo Trader will also see an increase in playing time versus Iowa State in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

Miami is also playing without Isaiah Horton in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Horton transferred to Alabama. Restrepo led Miami in 2024 with 69 receptions for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns. Horton was second on Miami with 56 receptions and third with 616 yards and five TDs.

Jacolby George who was third on Miami with 51 receptions and third with 728 receiving yards and seven TDs is expected to play on Saturday. Miami also had redshirt junior Shemar Kirk is also available. Miami's top-ranked offense will be tested without its most productive player.

Several key players on offense for Miami at other positions are playing in the Pop-Tarts Bowl. Offensive lineman Jalen Rivers, running back Damien Martinez and tight end Elijah Arroyo have chosen to play in the Pop-Tarts Bowl.

In addition to Martinez, Miami will have second and third-leading rushers Mark Fletcher Jr. and Jordan Lyle on Saturday. Miami will be without tight end Riley Williams who entered the transfer portal. True freshman Elija Lofton should see an increase in snaps at TE behind Arroyo with Williams out.

Ward opting in for the Pop-Tarts Bowl was big for Mario Cristobal and the culture he is trying to set for the Miami football program. Restrepo opting out is surprising, but the younger WRs on the Miami offense will have a chance to perform playing with Ward.