Stover is a one-speed runner. He has a quick first step and gets up to top speed quickly, but he lacks the second gear to really chew up yards after the catch. Stover has a strong upper body and a thick lower half that helps him break some tackles. He'll deploy a stiff arm or two in the open field and can pinball off defenders with momentum built up. Stover's hands are like vice grips with a 50% collegiate contested catch rate and only two drops. He is a linear athlete. His hips aren't as loose as you'd want to give Stover elite upside at the position, but he can uncover quickly underneath when it's called for. Stover should be able to beat zone coverage at the next level, but you likely won't see him winning many reps if he gets lined up outside. He's not explosive enough of an athlete or a top-shelf talent in terms of refinement with his route running to expect that from him. Dynasty Outlook: Stover was drafted in a range where I figured he would go (fourth-round) in the NFL Draft, so I don't have any reservations about his draft capital. The issue is his landing spot doesn't offer any hope for early, consistent playing time unless Dalton Schultz gets hurt. Schultz just signed a three-year deal, which keeps him in Houston for at least the next two seasons. This leaves Stover as a taxi squad player or someone worth a late fourth-round pick in tight-end premium leagues.
by in FantasyMay 6, 2024