The NFL Draft 2025 left a reason to celebrate for Hispanics in the United States. The Seattle Seahawks bet big on talent with Mexican roots, drafting Elijah Arroyo and Damien Martinez, two promising young players who will now have the opportunity to fight for a place on the franchise’s final roster.
This move reinforces the growth of Latino talent in professional American soccer, especially among Hispanic fans seeking representation in the major sports leagues.
Elijah Arroyo
Tight end Elijah Arroyo, from the Miami Hurricanes, was selected in the second round with the 50th pick in the draft.
The Seattle Seahawks’ gamble was considerable, given the potential he showed during his college career:
He accumulated 753 yards and eight touchdowns in four seasons.
They bet heavily on talent with Mexican roots
QueOnnda.com
Arroyo, who has publicly expressed pride in his Mexican roots – inherited from his grandparents – is considered a player with great potential.
According to Combine reports, he excels as a blocker on the move, although he is expected to improve in technique and physical strength to establish himself in the NFL.
His combination of sure hands, agility in tight spaces and competitive attitude could open up real opportunities for him to contribute in the Seattle Seahawks offensive scheme in the 2025-26 season.
Damien Martinez
Buzzy
Meanwhile, Damien Martinez, a running back from the University of Miami, was selected in the seventh round with pick 223.
With Mexican roots on his mother’s side, Martinez stood out as a powerful runner, capable of gaining yards after first contact, something that caught the attention of the Seattle Seahawks coaching staff.
During his collegiate career, he rushed for 3,168 yards and scored 26 touchdowns in three seasons, averaging 6.2 yards per carry on 514 carries.
Although he lacks explosive speed on long breaks, his vision, inside agility and ability to break tackles make him a valuable player for short and medium forward situations.
Martinez will be evaluated as a possible complementary player on offense, but his physicality and consistency could allow him to assume a more important role if the opportunity presents itself.
Although deep Sebastian Castro, also of Mexican roots, was not selected in the draft, he will have the opportunity to showcase his talent with the Pittsburgh Steelers as a free agent.
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