TOP Tight End Prospects—Will Eli Stowers SHOCK The NFL As Travis Kelce’s Heir?
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The Locked on Chiefs podcast dives into the 2026 NFL Draft's tight end class, focusing on the Kansas City Chiefs' urgent need to replace Travis Kelce. Hosts Chris Clark and Ryan Tracy discuss the top prospects, with Eli Stowers emerging as the most intriguing candidate despite questions about his fit in the Chiefs' system. While Stowers is ranked second overall in athleticism and production, the hosts debate whether he’s better suited as a big slot receiver or a traditional tight end. They highlight Kenyon Sadiq as the top prospect but dismiss him as a likely pick at #9, favoring a trade down to target Stowers or other Day 2/3 options. The conversation explores sleepers like Max Clare, Justin Jolly, Michael Trey, and utility players like Riley Nowakowski, emphasizing the importance of blocking ability and developmental potential. The episode underscores that without a draft pick or free agent addition, the Chiefs face a major gap in their tight end corps heading into 2027.
Eli Stowers is the most athletic and productive tight end in the 2026 class, but his fit in the Chiefs' offense remains debated.
The Chiefs should consider trading down from #9 to target Stowers or other Day 2/3 prospects like Max Clare and Justin Jolly.
Blocking ability and development potential are more critical than pure athleticism for tight ends in Andy Reid’s system.
Riley Nowakowski and Michael Trey are under-the-radar options with strong utility value beyond traditional tight end roles.
Without a draft pick or free agent signing, Travis Kelce’s eventual departure could leave a major hole in the Chiefs’ offense.
Intro and Draft Context
The hosts introduce the episode’s focus: evaluating tight end prospects for the Kansas City Chiefs following Travis Kelce’s likely departure. They set the stage for a deep dive into the 2026 draft class.
Eli Stowers: The Top Contender
“He's not going to run routes and turn around guys like Sauce Gardner out there on the edge. I don't think he's a stand-up outside wide receiver, but he can do some things.”
Top Prospects and Draft Strategy
The discussion shifts to Kenyon Sadiq, Max Clare, Justin Jolly, and Michael Trey, with the hosts evaluating their strengths, weaknesses, and projected draft ranges. They emphasize the need for the Chiefs to trade down to target top talent.
Utility Players and Developmental Picks
The hosts spotlight under-the-radar players like Riley Nowakowski and Tanner Koziel, highlighting their blocking prowess and production despite lower athleticism or film grades.
The Chiefs' Tight End Crisis
“If that is the case and they don't go get somebody in the draft, this is a huge issue going into the 2027 season.”
“This is likely going to be Kelsey's swan song. If that is the case and they don't go get somebody in the draft, this is a huge issue going into the 2027 season.”
“He's not going to run routes and turn around guys like Sauce Gardner out there on the edge. I don't think he's a stand-up outside wide receiver, but he can do some things.”
“He is the guy that when they were trying to rush in the national championship game and they had to have somebody go help and maybe take over for blocking Bain, it was Riley Nowakowski.”
Hosts
Kansas City Chiefs
other
Ryan Tracy
person
Travis Kelce
person
Eli Stowers
person
Chris Clark
person
Kenyon Sadiq
person
Max Clare
person
Riley Nowakowski
person
Rogue APC
organization
Tanner Koziel
person
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