Jerry Jones, owner and general manager of the Dallas Cowboys, has stirred buzz around one of the most intriguing prospects in the upcoming 2026 NFL Draft by expressing interest in tight end Eli Stowers.
Despite the Cowboys recently securing a lucrative contract extension for veteran tight end Jake Ferguson, Jones‘ pursuit of Stowers highlights a bold strategy to inject dynamic playmaking into Dallas‘ offense.
Stowers, a 22yearold from the Vanderbilt Commodores, has been widely projected as a potential TE2 in this year’s draft class, though his unconventional path has made him one of the more controversial prospects.
He initially played quarterback at Texas A&M before transitioning to tight end, refining his role at Vanderbilt, where he ultimately excelled. In 2025 he was named the nation’s top tight end after posting impressive statistics that included 62 receptions for 769 yards and four touchdowns.
Analysts say the Cowboys‘ interest in Stowers makes sense on the surface, especially given his elite athletic traits.
At the NFL Scouting Combine, he posted noteworthy metrics such as a 4.51second 40yard dash, a 45.5inch vertical leap, and an 11foot3 broad jump that turned heads across draft evaluators.
A controversial prospect with upside
Stowers‘ background as a converted quarterback has contributed to the mixed opinions surrounding his draft profile. Some scouts see immense upside in his receiving ability and athleticism, while others question how his skills will translate consistently at the professional level.
His movement skills and playmaking traits make him an intriguing addition, but concerns about his blocking and experience remain points of debate.
Jones‘ interest signals that the Cowboys are not afraid to bet on a prospect with both high reward and high uncertainty.
Bringing a dynamic tight end like Stowers into the fold could give the Cowboys a unique weapon, especially if paired with Ferguson and other passcatching options already on the roster.
Where Dallas stands offensively
The Cowboys‘ current tight end room is anchored by Ferguson, who recently signed a fouryear, $52 million extension that keeps him under contract through 2029.
Jones‘ decision to still explore additional receiving talent at the position suggests that Dallas sees room for growth and diversification in its offensive scheme.
Stowers is widely expected to be selected in the second round of the draft, but the Cowboys have two firstround picks and could package selections creatively to move up or secure him later.
Whether Jones‘ interest turns into a formal draft selection remains to be seen, but the heightened focus on Stowers underscores the team’s desire to strengthen its offense with versatile playmakers as they eye a competitive future.
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