Santa Clara, California – In a move that has sent ripples through the NFC, the San Francisco 49ers have reached a personal agreement with a promising talent right before the 2026 Draft.

This is a big step for them as John Lynch and the front office look to add yet another layer to their high-powered offensive machine. The team is determined to make a difference and return to the pinnacle of the NFL.

While the 49ers’ tight end group is led by the legendary George Kittle and supported by names like Luke Farrell and Jake Tonges, the team still wanted to add more versatility.

This is crucial for an offense that thrives on “positionless” football. With the team’s evolving strategy under Offensive Coordinator Klay Kubiak, the 49ers were looking for a player who could play multiple positions, from tight end to wide receiver. They’ve found a promising candidate.

Versatility: The Engine of the 49ers’ “Positionless” Offense

Versatility is a key factor in the 49ers’ offensive lineup. This flexibility allows the team to change strategies and create breakthroughs, giving Brock Purdy a unique “Swiss Army Knife” weapon.

This player has an impressive physique, standing 6’4″ and weighing 235 pounds. The combination of strength and agility allows him to move freely on the field, fitting the mold of the versatile playmakers Kyle Shanahan has famously coveted.

Experts have praised this player’s ability to catch passes and move after reception—highlighted by his 769 receiving yards in 2025, the most of any tight end in the nation. He is a perfect piece for the 49ers’ strategic offense. Though he has only played tight end for the past three seasons, this player’s potential for development is impressive, drawing attention from multiple teams looking for a dynamic receiving threat.

A Dynamic Weapon Who Can Play Like a Wide Receiver

This player’s ability to play like a wide receiver is a key feature. The 49ers can use him in various offensive situations to surprise opponents, lining him up in the slot or out wide to create mismatches. The team is hopeful that, with his rapid development, this player will help improve their pass-catching game and expand their offensive options alongside stars like Brandon Aiyuk and Christian McCaffrey.

This player started his college career as a quarterback at Texas A&M, then transitioned to wide receiver at New Mexico before settling as a tight end at Vanderbilt, where he won the 2025 John Mackey Award. The name Eli Stowers, with his exceptional skills and versatility, has caught the 49ers’ attention. He is a promising candidate for the upcoming season.

• Elite Ceiling: While not yet considered a finished product, Stowers earned an elite 85.3 PFF receiving grade, suggesting he can be a high-level NFL contributor.

• Athletic Profile: With a combination of height, speed, and 377 yards after the catch last season, Stowers will make a difference in the 49ers’ offensive lineup.

• Draft Pedigree: As the first Mackey Award winner in Vanderbilt history, experts predict Stowers will be one of the top tight end prospects in the 2026 Draft.

The 49ers will aim to unleash Stowers’ full potential, especially in a system where flexibility and creativity are key elements. In addition, Stowers is expected to be one of the top tight end picks in the 2026 Draft, a position full of promise. While other teams are also eyeing Stowers, San Francisco seems to be the ideal destination to help him grow and showcase his talents in the Bay Area.

In conclusion, Eli Stowers is a promising talent the 49ers hope will bring significant changes to their offensive lineup. He will help the 49ers compete more effectively in the coming season.