Cam Ward pushed the Titans to sign Xavier Restrepo | That was a smart decision
The chemistry between quarterback Cam Ward and wide receiver Xavier Restrepo lit up the college football world in 2024, and it didn’t take long for it to resurface in Tennessee Titans rookie minicamp.
Ward, the No. 1 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, made it clear during the pre-draft process that he wanted to reunite with his favorite target. The Titans front office listened. Despite going undrafted—largely due to a disappointing 4.8-second 40-yard dash at Miami’s pro day—Restrepo was quickly signed by Tennessee, and on Saturday, the duo picked up right where they left off.
“Xavier’s been a really productive college player,” Titans head coach Brian Callahan said after practice. “You look at all the names of receivers that have played at the University of Miami and he’s at the top, which is impressive. He might not necessarily be the biggest or the fastest player that’s ever come out of Miami, but he’s been incredibly productive.”
Restrepo leaves Miami as the school’s all-time leader in receptions, a title that speaks to his reliability and consistency. While his pro day numbers may have pushed him off some draft boards, his performance alongside Ward last season was undeniable: 1,127 yards and 11 touchdowns in just one season together.
On Saturday, those numbers began to translate to the NFL level. The two connected seamlessly in 7-on-7 drills, with Restrepo working mostly out of the slot, just as he did in college. For a Titans team looking to inject life into its offense, the Ward-Restrepo connection could become an immediate asset.
“He’s found ways to play football the right way,” Callahan added. “So he’ll start out as a slot player for us and he’ll have every chance to compete just like everybody else. Even though he didn’t run the fastest time in the world, I’m excited to see what he can do.”
For Restrepo, the opportunity to continue playing with Ward offers a unique advantage. For Ward, having a trusted receiver in his transition to the NFL is invaluable. If their early showing is any indication, this underdog pairing may end up being one of the most impactful rookie duos in the league.
And it all started with a push from the quarterback who knew just how special his former teammate could be.
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