The Seattle Seahawks selected former Miami Hurricanes tight end Elijah Arroyo with the No. 50 overall selection in the 2025 NFL draft. General manager John Schneider showed consistent interest in tight ends throughout the pre-draft process, and he pounced on Arroyo’s availability with a top 50 selection.
Arroyo was impactful while playing alongside No. 1 overall quarterback Cam Ward this past season. The athletic pass catcher recorded 35 receptions for 590 yards and seven touchdowns. Arroyo measured in at 6-foot-5 and 250 pounds at the NFL Combine, displaying a pro-ready frame.
What are expectations for Elijah Arroyo’s rookie season?
Arroyo will contend for snaps immediately in Klint Kubiak’s new-look offense with Sam Darnold at quarterback. The Seahawks have veteran Noah Fant atop the tight end depth chart, but he’s at risk of forfeiting snaps to Arroyo and AJ Barner.
Arroyo will face competition for reps. Due to the talent the Seahawks possess at the position, first-year expectations should be realistic. Arroyo possesses enough athleticism as a mismatch nightmare to make the occasional big play in the passing game, but he’ll probably rotate in behind Fant and Barner when all parties are available.
Most importantly, Arroyo must stay healthy. The Frisco, Texas native was limited by injuries throughout 2022 and 2023. Arroyo finally maintained a clean bill of health throughout 2024. He must carry that momentum over to his rookie campaign in Seattle.