Miami WR Xavier Restrepo Addresses His 40-Yard Dash Struggles at Pro Day

Xavier Restrepo, the Miami Hurricanes’ standout wide receiver, recently found himself in the spotlight for all the wrong reasons after his 40-yard dash time at the university’s Pro Day raised eyebrows. A time of 4.83 seconds was far from what many expected given Restrepo’s impressive college career and training performance. The unofficial time, a crucial metric for NFL scouts, stirred conversation among fans and analysts alike, but the Miami star wasn’t shy in addressing the challenges he faced during the high-pressure moment.

A Setback Before the Big Run

Restrepo, who was expected to clock a faster time based on his training leading up to Pro Day, had proven in various training sessions that he could consistently run the 40-yard dash in the 4.5-second range. However, on the day of the Pro Day event, things didn’t go as planned. According to Restrepo, he was dealing with tightness in his right hamstring during warm-ups, which noticeably affected his performance in the 40-yard dash. Despite feeling some discomfort, Restrepo decided to proceed with the run, hoping that his competitive spirit would carry him through the challenge.

“I felt good going into the day, but my hamstring tightened up during warm-ups,” Restrepo said after the run. “I thought I could push through it and still give a good time, but it wasn’t in the cards. It was a tough decision, but I’m here to compete, and I wanted to give it my all regardless.”

Though the 4.83-second mark was far from the time that most scouts had anticipated, Restrepo’s candid explanation helped ease some of the criticism. His decision to still run the 40-yard dash, despite knowing he wasn’t at 100%, showed a level of resilience and determination that many view as a strength.

A Glowing College Career

Despite the setback at Pro Day, there’s little doubt about Restrepo’s abilities as a wide receiver. Over his five years at Miami, Restrepo proved to be a consistent and reliable playmaker. In the 2024 season, he finished as Miami’s leader in receiving yards (1,127) and touchdowns (11), earning All-American honors and solidifying his reputation as one of the top receivers in the ACC.

His career stats are equally impressive, with a total of 200 receptions, 2,844 yards, and 21 touchdowns. His ability to run precise routes, read defenses, and create separation has earned him praise from both coaches and analysts. Many have drawn comparisons between Restrepo and NFL receivers like Julian Edelman and Jarvis Landry, especially when considering his quickness, high football IQ, and his ability to thrive in the slot.

Not Just a Speedster: Restrepo’s Other Strengths

While speed is an important attribute for wide receivers, it’s not the only factor that makes a player successful at the NFL level. And in Restrepo’s case, his value on the field goes far beyond his 40-yard dash time. Scouts have long praised his route-running ability, agility, and football intelligence. His quickness in and out of breaks is exceptional, and he’s known for his ability to create separation even without top-tier top-end speed.

“He’s a technician at running routes,” said one NFL scout. “While his 40 time may not wow anyone, his ability to get open is what really stands out. He’s one of those guys that knows how to find soft spots in the defense and make plays in tight spaces.”

Additionally, Restrepo’s leadership on and off the field has been a cornerstone of his success. His work ethic, resilience, and ability to lead by example have earned him the respect of his teammates and coaches alike. As a senior, Restrepo was often seen mentoring younger players, particularly in the wide receiver room, which has helped Miami’s receiving corps continue to develop after his departure.

The NFL Combine: A Missed Opportunity

Before Pro Day, Restrepo had opted to skip the 40-yard dash at the NFL Scouting Combine. Instead, he focused on agility drills, showcasing his lateral quickness and ability to change direction with precision. His decision to skip the 40-yard dash was strategic, as Restrepo had been dealing with some wear and tear on his body, and he felt that performing the 40 at the Combine wouldn’t provide him with an opportunity to truly demonstrate his strengths.

At Miami’s Pro Day, he chose to run the 40-yard dash in hopes of redeeming himself. However, the injury flare-up in his hamstring added more challenges to his attempt. Despite the disappointing result, Restrepo still participated in several other drills, including the bench press, where he impressed scouts by completing 17 reps, showing that he is more than just a fast runner—he’s a well-rounded athlete.

What’s Next for Xavier Restrepo?

Despite the Pro Day setback, Restrepo remains a strong prospect for the NFL draft. Many scouts and analysts still consider him to be a potential Day 2 pick, thanks to his route-running, football IQ, and versatility. Teams looking for a reliable slot receiver, special teams contributor, and a player with leadership qualities are likely to give him serious consideration.

“He’s got everything you want from a slot receiver—quick, tough, and smart. The 40 time won’t define him,” one NFL talent evaluator said. “If anything, it might even play in his favor, because teams know they’re getting someone who can get open consistently.”

Despite the challenges faced at Pro Day, Restrepo’s collegiate body of work and his resilience through adversity position him well for success at the next level. With a strong showing in other areas and a proven track record in games, his NFL dream is far from over.

Conclusion

Xavier Restrepo’s Pro Day performance may not have been perfect, but it does not detract from what he’s accomplished throughout his college career or the immense potential he has for the NFL. His determination to perform despite injury, combined with his exceptional skills as a receiver, will likely keep him on the radar of NFL teams. Moving forward, it’s clear that while his 40-yard dash time may have been a tough pill to swallow, it is only a small part of what makes him a valuable prospect. Restrepo’s ability to bounce back, both mentally and physically, will define his future in the NFL.