- Joined
- May 8, 2002
- Posts
- 1,193,704
- Reaction score
- 59
Every rookie develops on a different timeline. That reality feels especially true at the tight end position, where players are often asked to learn route concepts, blocking assignments, pass protections, and multiple offensive responsibilities simultaneously. It's one of the NFL's most demanding positions, which is why reports of Eli Stowers' quiet spring as part of the Philadelphia Eagles should probably be viewed with perspective rather than panic.
Stowers was selected in the second round because the team believes that he can eventually become the successor to Dallas Goedert. A few uneventful OTA and minicamp practices aren't changing that belief.
Patience is required. The Eagles are learning that. So are most fans and the Philadelphia media. Stowers arrived in Philadelphia after winning the John Mackey Award at Vanderbilt and showcasing elite athletic traits throughout the pre-draft process.
His 4.51-second 40-yard dash and explosive testing numbers helped confirm what scouts already believed. He possesses the physical tools to become a difference-maker. The challenge has never been athleticism. The challenge is adjusting to the professional game.
Here's something that isn't discussed very often. Stowers is also relatively new to the position. A former quarterback, he is still developing the finer points of playing tight end.
That process was always going to take time. Still, Philadelphia's history at tight end should provide reassurance. The Eagles have enjoyed remarkable consistency at the position over the past two decades.
Chad Lewis became a Pro Bowler. L.J. Smith developed into a productive starter. Brent Celek carved out a lengthy career. Zach Ertz became one of the best tight ends in franchise history. Dallas Goedert eventually followed him.
None of those stories were written during OTA practices. Each player required development, coaching, and patience. At some point, questions surrounded each of them.
The Eagles trusted the process then, and they appear prepared to do so again. That said, there are reasons for confidence. Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of Stowers' outlook has little to do with his athletic ability. By all accounts, his football IQ has always stood out.
That shouldn't surprise anyone. Stowers comes from Vanderbilt, one of the nation's premier academic institutions. Reports indicate he has been diligent in meetings and committed to learning the offense. He also has the benefit of learning from Dallas Goedert, one of the league's most complete tight ends.
Add in guidance from fellow Vanderbilt Commodores alumnus Jordan Matthews, who has publicly endorsed Stowers' potential, and it becomes easier to understand why the Eagles remain optimistic. Could Stowers have looked sharper this spring? Sure. Would more practice reps have helped? Absolutely. The bigger picture, however, remains unchanged.
The Eagles drafted Stowers because they believe he can become their next long-term answer at tight end. The game may be moving fast for him now, but that is true for most rookies. Eventually, things slow down. When they do, don't be surprised if the conversation surrounding Stowers sounds very different from what it does today.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: What should be made of Eli Stowers' slow start with the Eagles?
Continue reading...
Stowers was selected in the second round because the team believes that he can eventually become the successor to Dallas Goedert. A few uneventful OTA and minicamp practices aren't changing that belief.
Patience is required. The Eagles are learning that. So are most fans and the Philadelphia media. Stowers arrived in Philadelphia after winning the John Mackey Award at Vanderbilt and showcasing elite athletic traits throughout the pre-draft process.
His 4.51-second 40-yard dash and explosive testing numbers helped confirm what scouts already believed. He possesses the physical tools to become a difference-maker. The challenge has never been athleticism. The challenge is adjusting to the professional game.
The Eagles should be familiar with this process
Here's something that isn't discussed very often. Stowers is also relatively new to the position. A former quarterback, he is still developing the finer points of playing tight end.
That process was always going to take time. Still, Philadelphia's history at tight end should provide reassurance. The Eagles have enjoyed remarkable consistency at the position over the past two decades.
Chad Lewis became a Pro Bowler. L.J. Smith developed into a productive starter. Brent Celek carved out a lengthy career. Zach Ertz became one of the best tight ends in franchise history. Dallas Goedert eventually followed him.
None of those stories were written during OTA practices. Each player required development, coaching, and patience. At some point, questions surrounded each of them.
The Eagles trusted the process then, and they appear prepared to do so again. That said, there are reasons for confidence. Perhaps the most encouraging aspect of Stowers' outlook has little to do with his athletic ability. By all accounts, his football IQ has always stood out.
That shouldn't surprise anyone. Stowers comes from Vanderbilt, one of the nation's premier academic institutions. Reports indicate he has been diligent in meetings and committed to learning the offense. He also has the benefit of learning from Dallas Goedert, one of the league's most complete tight ends.
Add in guidance from fellow Vanderbilt Commodores alumnus Jordan Matthews, who has publicly endorsed Stowers' potential, and it becomes easier to understand why the Eagles remain optimistic. Could Stowers have looked sharper this spring? Sure. Would more practice reps have helped? Absolutely. The bigger picture, however, remains unchanged.
The Eagles drafted Stowers because they believe he can become their next long-term answer at tight end. The game may be moving fast for him now, but that is true for most rookies. Eventually, things slow down. When they do, don't be surprised if the conversation surrounding Stowers sounds very different from what it does today.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: What should be made of Eli Stowers' slow start with the Eagles?
Continue reading...
