TOP Tight End Prospects—Will Eli Stowers SHOCK The NFL As Travis Kelce’s Heir?

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 top prospects, with Eli Stowers emerging as a potential surprise pick despite not being a first-round athlete. They highlight Stowers' elite athleticism and production, though his lack of elite contested catch ability raises questions about his fit in the Chiefs' system. The conversation explores whether Stowers could thrive as a big slot receiver instead of a traditional tight end. The panel also evaluates a deep but uneven tight end class, identifying Kenyon Sadiq as the top prospect, followed by a group of mid-to-late round sleepers including Max Clare, Justin Jolly, Michael Trey, and Riley Nowakowski—whose versatility as an H-back or utility player stands out. The hosts emphasize that the Chiefs may need to address the position through free agency if they don’t draft a tight end, given Kelce’s likely final season in 2026. The episode underscores the importance of development, chemistry, and blocking ability—skills Kelce honed over time under Andy Reid’s guidance.