Eli Stowers Could Be T.J. Hockenson's Successor

When the Minnesota Vikings traded for T.J. Hockenson, the future was promising. However, Minnesota’s tight end room seems to have lost momentum over time. The draft is the most logical place to address this need, and Vanderbilt’s Eli Stowers would be an excellent option to fill this need.

Eli Stowers is a 6’4”, 240 lbs. tight end projected to go in the second round, putting him in perfect position for the Vikings.

Stowers has not had a normal career path. He started at quarterback at Texas A&M before transferring to New Mexico State, where he eventually transitioned to tight end and became a star.

He spent one year at New Mexico State, where he put up 366 receiving yards, two receiving touchdowns, and two rushing touchdowns in a wildcat role. However, the best was yet to come.

Stowers transferred to Vanderbilt with Diego Pavia and was instantly one of the best players in Vanderbilt history. In his two years at Vandy, Stowers put up 1,407 yards and nine receiving touchdowns against stout SEC defenses.

His best attribute is his ability to get open. He has a feel for where the ball is, which is something that you can’t coach.

Knowing where to be and understanding the leverage you have on the defenders is a huge skill.

He’s also a very crisp route runner, which is rare for the tight end position.

Stowers’ route-running ability gets even more impressive when you consider that he has been a quarterback for a considerable portion of his life playing football. His transition to tight end speaks to his unique athleticism.

Above all else, Stowers is versatile. His history of playing quarterback also makes him a candidate for many trick plays, which would make him a huge asset to Kevin O’Connell’s offense.

Stowers also has blazing speed, which makes him a mismatch against linebackers.

It begs the question of who will be tasked with covering Stowers, something that will give defensive coordinators headaches during gameplanning. His speed makes him a viable deep threat.

When given the chance, Stowers consistently takes the top off opposing defenses.

However, he isn’t a good run blocker.

Despite not being great at it, his willingness to put himself in these situations speaks to his work ethic.

Because he transitioned to tight end in college, Stowers is still developing at the position. The longer he plays the position, the more he will improve at this aspect of his game, despite the valid criticisms.

With all the traits listed above, you may think that Stowers would be better suited to play wide receiver at the NFL level, and some scouts would agree with you.

Whatever position Stowers plays in the NFL almost doesn’t matter, given his talent. Whether he is a tight end, wide receiver, or wildcat quarterback, Stowers is a weapon on the offense.

Adding Stowers to Minnesota’s tight end room would be critical at a time when the rookie can learn from Hockenson, while T.J. can still offer production, which is the best way for the Vikings to build their roster.