Vanderbilt Football 2026 Position Preview: Tight Ends

Vanderbilt's Tight End position presented significant challenges in the 2025 NFL draft, with Eli Stowers emerging as the clear standout. Stowers, who was drafted in the second round (54th overall), won the John Mackey Award and was named First Team All-American by multiple outlets. He demonstrated exceptional proficiency, catching 62 passes for 769 yards in 2025, following a strong 2024 season. The Commodores made three transfers to bolster the position, but none managed to replicate Stowers' impact.

Cole Spence, a 6'7" tight end, showcased considerable versatility and skill. Known for his ability to slip free in critical situations, Spence ranked 5th in receiving yards (233 from 15 receptions) and 2nd in yards per reception (15.5) among players with more than 3 catches. His athleticism is a significant asset, making him a tough matchup for slot corners. Spence's performance was particularly notable in a game against LSU, where he had 5 catches for 56 yards, leading the team in both categories.

The transfer trio of Jayvontay Conner (ECU), Maurice Veney (Morehouse College), and Walter Taylor III (who returns to Vanderbilt) add to the position's depth. Conner, a highly touted Tight End, rose from obscurity to become a significant contributor, catching 23 passes for 333 yards in 2025. Veney, a big-bodied player, is likely more of a blocker with occasional catching ability.

Taylor, while intriguing due to his athleticism and height, has limited playing experience due to his recent position change. The future Tight Ends, Tilden Riley and Adam Gehm, remain largely speculative, with their projectability and role expected to be primarily special teams.