Eli Stowers hasn’t generated many highlights during his first Eagles camp. Saturday night’s preseason opener against the Baltimore Ravens offers an opportunity to change the conversation. The second-round pick is listed behind Dallas Goedert and Johnny Mundt on Philadelphia’s first unofficial depth chart. That placement reflects a developmental summer for a receiver learning the responsibilities of an NFL tight end.
Stowers began his college career as a quarterback before moving to tight end. He developed into a productive target at Vanderbilt, but he wasn’t asked to block frequently. Philadelphia wants him to become dependable enough to remain on the field for running and passing situations.
The Ravens game should provide a revealing evaluation. Stowers must show he can engage NFL edge defenders, sustain blocks, and execute assignments without penalties. Coaches will study his work away from the football, not simply how many passes he catches.
His receiving ability still matters. With Goedert unlikely to receive extensive preseason work, Stowers could earn targets from Andy Dalton, Tanner McKee and Cole Payton. His athleticism should create opportunities against Baltimore’s reserve linebackers and safeties.
One productive game won’t complete his development or immediately move him ahead of Mundt. A strong performance could help Stowers build momentum while separating himself from Grant Calcaterra, Cameron Latu, E.J. Jenkins and Stone Smartt.
Philadelphia drafted Stowers for what he can eventually become, not solely for what he could provide in August. The preseason opener is his first chance to demonstrate that the long-term project is making progress.
This article originally appeared on Eagles Wire: Eli Stowers needs preseason opener to accelerate quiet Eagles camp