The Philadelphia Eagles are hoping for big things from their 2026 draft class as they shift the focus more towards building for the future on offense.
Eagles first-round pick Makai Lemon has already generated some buzz around him after OTAs, but second-round pick Eli Stowers has some big shoes to fill himself in Year 1. CBS Sports writer Josh Edwards named Stowers as one of the 10 rookies selected on Day 2 who could have a big impact on their teams in 2026.
"Philadelphia is entering another year of 'will this be Dallas Goedert's last year with the organization?' The NFC contender has been down this road before transitioning from Zach Ertz to Goedert. Can Stowers become the heir apparent at the position?
Until 2023, Stowers had been a quarterback. Although blessed with elite athleticism, he is still developing at the tight end position, particularly in the run game. As he continues to grow into his role as a run blocker, Stowers' capabilities in the pass game should be spotlighted. Incoming offensive coordinator Sean Mannion comes from Green Bay, where they ranked top-10 in two-plus tight end usage, according to TruMedia. Philadelphia now has the personnel to orchestrate a similar model."
Will Eli Stowers help the Eagles out in his first season?
Unlike Lemon, Stowers has not made the strongest first impression on the Eagles and their fan base. Mostly because he has been non-existent at OTAs with no newsworthy plays he made, leaving more to be desired.
Despite that, though, many experts still believe Stowers can make a massive impact on the Eagles' offense, which he definitely could. His 4.51-second 40-yard dash time is rare to see in a tight end, as he looks like one of the most athletic tight ends to come out of the draft in a long time.
The combination of Stowers and Goedert could be lethal in 2026 if executed properly. New Eagles offensive coordinator Sean Mannion is expected to use two-tight end sets often during the 2026 season, which will open up the passing game to have Goedert and Stowers involved often.
When watching the tape, Stowers has all the capabilities of being the next great tight end in the NFL and could even be used to flank outside at the wide receiver position. His kind of speed and hands are hard to find in a tight end, so the Eagles truly have a weapon that can work.
Read more: Eagles' video from OTAs should be clear warning for Makai Lemon breakout season
Ultimately, it's going to fall on Stowers and how he responds in his rookie season, as the Eagles will give him chances to shine on the field. He'll have to do a lot more than what he did at OTAs, but the potential is too good to ignore for the Eagles.
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