Xavier Restrepo, the University of Miami's all-time leader in receptions and receiving yards, signed with the Tennessee Titans as an undrafted free agent following the 2025 NFL Draft. This move reunites him with his college quarterback, Cam Ward, who was selected by the Titans as the first overall pick in this year's draft.
“GOD NEVER FAILS” #TitanUp pic.twitter.com/6mUgm4Pb4R
— Xavier Restrepo (@XavierRestrepo1) April 26, 2025
During his five-year tenure with the Hurricanes, Restrepo amassed 200 receptions for 2,844 yards and 21 touchdowns, setting school records in both receptions and receiving yards. In his final season, he recorded 69 catches for 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns, earning him first-team All-American honors and making him a semifinalist for the Biletnikoff Award.
Despite his collegiate success, Restrepo went undrafted, a situation attributed in part to a slower-than-expected 40-yard dash time of 4.83 seconds at Miami's Pro Day. Nevertheless, his route-running, reliable hands, and strong football IQ have drawn comparisons to former NFL wide receiver Julian Edelman.
For Restrepo, the reality of not getting drafted despite setting records in college is just part of the journey. After running a 4.83 40-yard dash time, it was expected for him to be selected lower in the draft. But now, he must put the time, and the draft position, behind him as he prepares to compete for a spot on the Titans roster.
Restrepo's familiarity with Ward could be advantageous as he tries to make the Titans' 53-man roster. The Titans' wide receiver group includes established players such as Calvin Ridley, Tyler Lockett, and Treylon Burks, as well as recent draft picks Chimere Dike and Elic Ayomanor. Restrepo will need to carve his way into the NFL the hard way, with no guarantees or handouts, but his time at Miami has prepared him well.
Restrepo, like many who have come before him, will have a proverbial chip on his shoulder that should motivate him to go out and prove everybody wrong.