Eli Stowers Transforms Career as Tight End for Vanderbilt Commodores

DENTON, Texas — Eli Stowers, a standout tight end for the Vanderbilt Commodores, has turned a painful injury setback during his time at Texas A&M into a remarkable career transformation. Stowers, once a quarterback on the brink of a professional path, now finds himself among the top prospects in college football.

Three summers ago, Stowers faced a crushing reality when he realized he could no longer play quarterback due to a shoulder injury that developed into a torn labrum. ‘I don’t know what to do,’ he told his father, Donald Stowers. ‘I can’t play this position anymore.’ Donald, a former high school football coach, encouraged his son to embrace his athleticism. ‘You’re 6-4, 220 pounds and you run a 4.39,’ he reminded Eli. ‘You can play any position you want.’

Fast forward to now, and the 6-foot-4, 235-pound athlete has made a name for himself as one of the nation’s best tight ends. Having a standout season with 31 catches and 397 yards, Stowers is ranked third on ESPN’s NFL draft board. This Saturday, the Commodores (7-1, 3-1 SEC) face a challenging game against Texas at DKR-Texas Memorial Stadium, which could heavily impact their postseason chances.

‘The normal young man does not survive that,’ said former Guyer High School coach John Walsh, reflecting on Stowers’ journey. ‘The way he walks in his faith is what got him through it.’

Stowers found solace and guidance during his struggles through his strong faith. ‘God works in mysterious ways,’ he told The Dallas Morning News. ‘Sometimes it doesn’t make sense. My life didn’t make sense.’

During his high school years, Stowers honed his athletic prowess with training techniques his father devised, including uphill and downhill sprints to build muscle and improve coordination. Stowers, who started football at age four, was introduced to complex game concepts early on, giving him an edge in his understanding of various positions.

After realizing that his path as a quarterback at Texas A&M was blocked, Stowers had to adapt quickly. The transition from quarterback to tight end was a significant change, but he embraced it after undergoing surgery on his shoulder. ‘I felt so much peace,’ he recalled. ‘I just think I didn’t want to listen for a while.’

In his debut season at tight end, Stowers caught 36 passes for 366 yards and two touchdowns. After transferring to Vanderbilt, he continued to excel, with 49 catches for 638 yards and six touchdowns last season. He has opted out of the 2025 NFL draft, focusing instead on enhancing his skills in this new position.

This Saturday, Stowers’ journey will come full circle as he plays in his home state against the Longhorns. It’s not just a game; it’s a chance to showcase his growth and chase the NFL dreams he once envisioned as a quarterback.

‘It’s a blessing,’ Stowers said, reflecting on his journey and the opportunity ahead.