The Philadelphia Eagles are gearing up for the 2026 NFL Draft, and while they have several positions to consider, the tight end spot is generating some buzz. Initially, many draft predictions had the Eagles targeting a tight end in the first round.
However, with Dallas Goedert re-signing, the focus has shifted to positions like offensive tackle, wide receiver, or edge rusher. But don't count out the possibility of adding a tight end just yet.
According to ESPN's draft guru Matt Miller, the Eagles could snag a promising tight end outside of the first round, and Vanderbilt's Eli Stowers is a name to watch.
Stowers isn't just any prospect; he's a record-setter. With jaw-dropping performances at the combine, including an 11-foot-3 broad jump and a 45.5-inch vertical, he’s the kind of athlete who can add a dynamic element to the Eagles' offense. While he might not fit the mold of a traditional in-line blocker, he’s more than capable of handling linebackers and safeties at the edge.
Last season, Stowers was a standout at Vanderbilt, hauling in 62 catches for 769 yards and four touchdowns, averaging an impressive 12.4 yards per catch. His efforts earned him unanimous All-American honors, a first-team All-SEC nod, and the prestigious John Mackey Award, recognizing him as the nation's top tight end.
Currently, the Eagles have a deep tight end room led by Goedert, with players like Grant Calcaterra, Stone Smartt, Johnny Mundt, Cameron Latu, E.J. Jenkins, and Jaheim Bell in the mix. While Calcaterra has earned the coaching staff's trust, others like Smartt and Mundt are valued for their blocking skills, and Latu shines on special teams, making roster decisions intriguing.
Drafting Stowers in the second or third round could be a strategic move for the Eagles, offering them a chance to infuse youth into their offense. As they look to the future, adding a player of Stowers' caliber might be just the spark they need.