Elijah Arroyo has been steadily carving his name into the Miami Hurricanes legacy. With a rare blend of athleticism and sharp instincts, the tight end stands out not just for his stats, but for the resilience he’s shown.
Born into a family where sports ran deep, his journey to the ACC spotlight is as much about heart as it is about talent. His development at Miami reflects a player hungry to evolve, facing fierce competition with a maturity beyond his years.
From his early days in Texas to donning the Hurricanes’ iconic orange and green, his story is still unfolding. Behind the highlight-reel plays lies a player whose background and ambition hint at even greater chapters ahead.
How old is Elijah Arroyo?
Born on April 5, 2003, in Frisco, Texas, Elijah Arroyo is 22 years old as of April 2025. His football journey began at Independence High School in Frisco, where he showcased his talents as a tight end, earning recognition as a four-star recruit.
Elijah Arroyo #8 of the Miami Hurricanes catches the ball for a touchdown against the Virginia Tech Hokies during the first quarter of the game at Hard Rock Stadium on September 27, 2024. (Source: Megan Briggs/Getty Images)
At Miami, his early collegiate years were marred by injuries, limiting his playtime. However, he demonstrated resilience and determination, culminating in a standout 2024 season that caught the attention of NFL scouts.
How tall is Elijah Arroyo?
Elijah Arroyo stands at an impressive 6 feet 4 inches tall. His height makes him a natural target in the passing game, giving quarterbacks a reliable option in critical situations.
This physical advantage allows him to create mismatches against defenders, particularly in red zone scenarios where size and reach become game-changers. His towering presence is one of his defining assets on the field.
What is Elijah Arroyo’s weight?
Weighing in at 245 pounds, Elijah Arroyo carries his size with impressive agility. His frame gives him the strength to block effectively at the line of scrimmage and the power to break tackles after receptions.
Despite his solid build, his athleticism remains one of his trademarks, allowing him to move fluidly and make plays that many tight ends his size simply cannot. His conditioning has been praised by Miami’s coaching staff throughout his college career.
Elijah Arroyo’s family
Elijah Arroyo’s journey to the NFL is deeply intertwined with his family’s story, marked by adaptability and a strong support system. His mother, LaTorri Arroyo, played a pivotal role in his upbringing.
Elijah Arroyo #8 of the Miami Hurricanes at Hard Rock Stadium on November 23, 2024. (Source: Carmen Mandato/Getty Images)
When he was six, the family relocated from Miami to Cancún, Mexico, due to his father’s job in timeshare sales. Despite the move, LaTorri ensured that his passion for football was nurtured, allowing him to participate in local youth leagues.
His grandfather, Marvin Hudson, a devoted Miami Hurricanes fan, also significantly influenced his football aspirations. Hudson’s enthusiasm for the Hurricanes left a lasting impression on him, fostering a deep connection to the team from an early age.
As the eldest sibling, he embraced a leadership role within his family, often guiding and mentoring his younger siblings. This sense of responsibility translated onto the football field, where he became known for his leadership qualities and commitment to excellence.
Who is Elijah Arroyo’s coach?
Throughout his collegiate career at the University of Miami, Elijah Arroyo was coached by Mario Cristobal, a figure known for building physically dominant teams. Cristobal’s emphasis on toughness and fundamentals shaped Arroyo’s approach to the game.
Tight ends coach Cody Woodiel also played a vital role, fine-tuning Arroyo’s blocking and pass-catching techniques. Together, they built a player who understands the nuances of his position and is prepared for the demands of the next level.
Elijah Arroyo’s career highlights
- Breakout 2024 season: After battling early injuries, Arroyo delivered a standout 2024 campaign with 35 receptions, 590 receiving yards, and 7 touchdowns, earning Second Team All-ACC honors. His consistent production made him one of Miami’s most reliable offensive weapons.
- Spectacular 74-yard touchdown vs. Georgia Tech: One of his most memorable plays came against Georgia Tech, where he turned a short pass into a 74-yard touchdown, showcasing not only his speed but also his elusiveness and vision after the catch.
- Climbing the record books: By the end of his collegiate career, Arroyo ranked ninth all-time among Miami tight ends with 753 career receiving yards, putting him alongside some of the most respected players in Hurricanes history.
- NFL dreams realized: Arroyo’s hard work and perseverance paid off when he was selected by the Seattle Seahawks with the 50th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his professional journey.
