Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers has been identified as a potential Day 2 prospect for the Green Bay Packers in the 2026 NFL Draft. His emergence has drawn attention as teams look for versatile offensive weapons capable of contributing in multiple ways.
Stowers has taken an unconventional path to becoming a tight end prospect, bringing a unique athletic background that translates into his on-field performance. His experience in different roles has helped shape a skill set that emphasizes movement, adaptability and playmaking ability.
Green Bay Packers, Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers receives a pass during football pro day at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 20, 2026.
As a receiver, Stowers has shown the ability to create separation and find space within defensive coverages. His athleticism allows him to stretch the field vertically while also serving as a reliable option in short and intermediate routes.
Stowers’ versatility extends beyond the passing game, where he continues to develop as a blocker. While refinement remains an area of focus, his willingness to engage and improve adds to his overall value as a complete tight end.
Vanderbilt Tight End Eli Stowers Floated as Green Bay Packers’ Potential NFL Draft Day 2 Target
Green Bay Packers, Eli Stowers, Vanderbilt
Vanderbilt tight end Eli Stowers gets in position for a drill during football pro day at Vanderbilt University in Nashville, Tenn., Friday, March 20, 2026.
Smith was recently named as a possible target in day 2 of the NFL Draft this year. This is detailed more in an analysis by Mike Spofford for the team’s official website.
Four-star recruit as a quarterback transitioned to tight end in college and wound up a Mackey Award winner as the nation’s best tight end … Texas native spent two years at Texas A&M and one at New Mexico State before his final two at Vanderbilt, where he caught 111 passes for 1,407 yards and nine TDs over the 2024-25 seasons … Wrapped up his college career as a first-team All-SEC and first-team AP All-America selection, along with the Mackey Award and William V. Campbell Trophy, also known as the “Academic Heisman” … Impressive athlete who recorded a 4.51-second 40, 45½-inch vertical jump and 11-3 broad jump at the combine … Major receiving weapon with after-catch skills and a long way to go as a blocker, but given recent position switch and body type, can develop and add strength there … Also a state champion high jumper in high school.
For the Packers, adding a player like Stowers could provide flexibility within the offense, allowing for varied alignments and creative play designs. His presence could complement existing personnel while giving the team another dynamic option in key situations.
As the draft approaches, Stowers’ profile as a Day 2 prospect reflects both his current abilities and long-term potential. If selected, he could become an impactful contributor as he continues to grow within an NFL system.