Restrepo's Roster Spot Signals Titans' New Direction
Xavier Restrepo, an undrafted free agent, earned a spot on the Titans' 53-man roster after a strong training camp. He beat out veteran Bryce Oliver for the final receiver slot. The move underscores the team's commitment to rewarding performance under new coach Robert Saleh.
Restrepo's path to the active roster began last summer when he signed with Tennessee as an undrafted free agent out of Miami. He spent most of his rookie season on the practice squad, appearing in just two games with three receptions before using this year's training camp to force the issue. His preseason finale against Chicago, where he hauled in four passes for 71 yards, provided the final push.
The decision came at the expense of Bryce Oliver, who had been with the Titans since 2024 and contributed primarily on special teams. Restrepo's promotion also reunites him with quarterback Cam Ward, his former Miami teammate, giving the Titans a familiar connection as they reshape their offense under first-year coach Robert Saleh following the release of Will Levis.
This roster decision could signal a broader shift in how NFL teams evaluate undrafted talent, rewarding training-camp production over veteran tenure. For Titans fans, it may restore confidence in a front office willing to prioritize merit, potentially boosting engagement and optimism around a rebuilding season. Other undrafted players across the league may see this as evidence that consistent preseason performance can still earn a permanent spot, which could influence how teams approach their final roster cuts in future years.