Eagles Draft TE Eli Stowers 54th Overall in 2026 NFL Draft
The Philadelphia Eagles made a significant move during the 2026 NFL Draft by selecting Eli Stowers, a tight end from Vanderbilt, with the 54th overall pick. Stowers, originally a high school quarterback, transitioned to tight end at the college level, showcasing his versatility and athleticism.
Eli Stowers: A Career Overview
Stowers began his collegiate journey at Texas A&M before transferring to New Mexico and eventually to Vanderbilt. His performance in recent seasons highlighted his potential as a receiver, with impressive stats that demonstrate his growth in the tight end position.
| Year | School | Position | Receptions | Yards | Yards Per Catch | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2021 | Texas A&M | QB | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 2022 | Texas A&M | QB | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 |
| 2023 | New Mexico State | TE | 35 | 366 | 10.5 | 2 |
| 2024 | Vanderbilt | TE | 49 | 638 | 13.0 | 5 |
| 2025 | Vanderbilt | TE | 62 | 769 | 12.4 | 4 |
Combine Performance and Athleticism
Eli Stowers gained national attention for his outstanding performance at the NFL Combine. He set records with a vertical leap of 45.5 inches and a broad jump of 135 inches, demonstrating his elite athleticism. Additionally, he clocked a 40-yard dash time of 4.51 seconds.
Strengths and Areas for Improvement
Stowers’ agility and playmaking ability make him a promising addition to the Eagles’ roster. His ability to gain yards after the catch (YAC) stands out. However, his current size of 6 feet 4 inches and 239 pounds positions him more like a large receiver than a traditional tight end.
To maximize his potential, Stowers will need to enhance his blocking skills. Fortunately, he will have the opportunity to develop under the guidance of Dallas Goedert, the Eagles’ starting tight end in 2026.
Conclusion
The selection of Eli Stowers by the Philadelphia Eagles could be a strategic move for the future. With his blend of size, speed, and receiving ability, he has the potential to become a key player as he adjusts to the demands of the NFL.
