Philadelphia Just Drafted a Tight End Named Eli Stowers and Jordan Matthews Can't Stop Smiling About It

The Philadelphia Eagles made a move in the 2026 NFL Draft that had one of their former players absolutely beaming. Jordan Matthews, now on Vanderbilt's coaching staff, helped bring a play into the system that he originally developed during his playing days, and that connection just got a whole lot closer when Philadelphia selected tight end Eli Stowers.

The Stowers Pick Hits Home

When the Eagles are on the clock, they're thinking about winning now. The draft class was deep and competitive across the board. But landing Stowers gave Matthews, who's coaching at Vanderbilt, a direct line of sight into how his old team is building for the future. The connection between a former player turned coach and his old organization getting the talent he's helping develop elsewhere? That's the kind of thing that makes draft day special.

What This Means for the Eagles

Tight end was clearly on the Eagles' radar, and they pulled the trigger on Stowers to fill that need. In a draft where teams were addressing secondary depth, offensive line concerns, and pass rush, Philadelphia focused on positioning themselves with a target who can make plays in the middle of the field. Adding that weapon to their roster sends a message about what they're trying to build around their current roster.

For Matthews back at Vanderbilt, watching his scheme and his influence make it into the Eagles' system through a draft pick is validation. The play he installed, the foundation he helped lay as a player in Philly, now has new blood carrying it forward. That's the kind of draft day story that reminds you this game is about more than just talent evaluation. It's about connections, legacies, and the people who helped build the systems your favorite team still runs today.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.