It seems like Chiefs Kingdom has been buzzing about finding a successor for Travis Kelce for quite some time, and now that conversation is becoming more pressing. Noah Gray, despite his efforts, hasn't quite shown he's ready to fill Kelce's shoes, with only 21 catches for 178 yards in 2025. Even at 36, Kelce continues to lead the team in all major receiving categories, highlighting the need for a future plan.
The Chiefs are also grappling with issues in their receiving corps, particularly a lack of depth and size. Kelce has long been the team's go-to big-bodied target, capable of making plays as a backside iso.
However, as his agility wanes, he can't dominate in the same way. Combine this with some off-field drama involving Rashee Rice, and the Chiefs' receiving lineup looks a bit thin heading into 2026.
A potential solution could be to find a tight end who brings versatility to the table-someone who can block and catch like a receiver. While blocking tight ends are often found later in the draft or in free agency, an athletic tight end who can function as an X or Z receiver might just be the answer.
For those keeping a close eye on the 2026 NFL Draft, especially with the Chiefs in mind, the Arrowhead Addict Big Board is a great resource. It's specifically tailored to the Chiefs' needs.
Eli Stowers | TE | 6-4, 235 LBS
Stowers is a big-slot weapon with seam speed, burst, and yards after catch (YAC) potential. He's ranked #15 on the Freaks List and has a background as a former quarterback.
He excels at finding soft spots in zones, tracks the ball well, and can win contested catches. However, he needs to work on his physicality and route running.
His blocking is below average.
Shades of: Orande Gadsen II
NFL Draft Profile: Eli Stowers, Tight End, Vanderbilt
- Age: 22 (on draft day)
- Height: 6-4
- Weight: 235 LBS
- Tape Exposure: Missouri (2025), South Carolina (2025), Vanderbilt (2025)
Background
Eli Stowers hails from Denton, Texas, where he played quarterback at John H. Guyer High School.
In his junior year, he earned District Co-Offensive MVP honors, throwing for 2,969 yards and 36 touchdowns, while also rushing for 1,166 yards and 11 touchdowns. A state champion in the high jump, he was initially recruited as a quarterback prospect before transitioning to tight end at New Mexico State.
At Vanderbilt, he wrapped up his career with 1,407 yards and eight touchdowns, earning All-American honors in 2025.
Strengths
Athletic Mismatch
Stowers is a rare athlete for the tight end position, boasting impressive speed and agility. Ranked 15th on Bruce Feldman’s Freaks list, he has an 11-3 broad jump, 39-inch vertical, and a 360-lb. power clean, with GPS tracking clocking him at over 21 MPH. He’s more athletic than most linebackers and big enough to challenge corners.
Catch Point
Despite being new to the position, Stowers has only five career drops. He's a natural hands catcher, strong in contested situations with a 41.5% contested catch rate, showcasing his high-jump skills.
Yards After Catch
Quick and elusive after the catch, Stowers can break tackles and ranks among the best in his class with 6.1 yards after catch per reception. His ability to find zones and accelerate downhill is a standout trait.
Weaknesses
Run Game
Stowers struggles as an in-line blocker, with poor hand usage and a lack of strength at the point of attack. His blocking in the screen game also needs improvement.
Route Running
While he reads zones well, his route running lacks refinement, with unnecessary movements that can hinder his effectiveness against man coverage.
Is Eli Stowers the Right Fit for the Chiefs?
With Kenyon Sadiq as the consensus top tight end, the question remains whether Stowers is the next best option. His blocking limitations mean he won't fit every team or scheme.
However, having both him and Kelce could offer the Chiefs a dynamic duo, allowing Kelce to reduce his snap count. Stowers could learn a lot from Kelce, and with the Chiefs' track record of developing tight ends, he might just be the perfect understudy with significant upside.