The Tennessee Titans faced a tough matchup against the Jacksonville Jaguars in Week 13, and the day took a disappointing turn for rookie wide receiver Xavier Restrepo. With the Titans trailing 25-3 late in the fourth quarter, Restrepo sustained an ankle injury while making his first reception of the game. Medical personnel attended to him on the field, and he required a cart to leave the field, putting his return to the game in serious doubt.
Restrepo has emerged as a promising player for the Titans this season, building on his successful college career at the University of Miami, where he became the school’s all-time leading receiver. After signing with the Titans as an undrafted free agent in the spring, he has been dedicated to proving his worth, spending the season on the practice squad until recently when he was called up to contribute on the active roster.
In his NFL debut against the Seattle Seahawks just a week prior, Restrepo made an immediate impact, capturing two catches. Following that game, he expressed his enthusiasm for returning to the field, emphasizing the importance of improvement despite the team’s loss. His positive mindset in the face of adversity highlights his resilience and dedication, as he stated, “It’s always fun playing football again… But again, loss is a loss.”
Restrepo’s brief play on the field, where he caught a pass for a first down, showcased his potential to energize the Titans’ offense, especially in a challenging season. As he awaits further assessment on the ankle injury, his determination remains undeterred. “I want that back more than ever,” he reflected on a drop from his previous game, indicating his desire to contribute more significantly to the team’s success.
While Restrepo’s immediate future with the team hinges on the injury’s severity, his impact on the Titans, both on and off the field, should not be underestimated. His work ethic and spirited attitude may continue to inspire his teammates as they strive to improve and overcome obstacles throughout the remainder of the season.