2021 NFL Draft: Auburn special teams ace Eli Stove met with Bills
The Bills are no stranger to taking special teams seriously. After the loss of All-Pro return man Andre Roberts, Buffalo’s unit will certainly look different in 2021.
That could include a prospect by the name of Eli Stove,
According to The Draft Network’s Justin Melo, Stove had a pre-draft visit with 11 total teams, one which was the Bills. In 2020, Stove was a kick and punt returner for Auburn last season and more.
Per Rams Wire, he’s a guy that’s confident in his ability to… do anything. That’s something that would certainly appeal to the Bills.
“Like I say to the scouts, I play everything,” he said. “Any position on the field you want to put me, I can do it. Slot, outside, play a little bit of running back, run in motion and get the ball on sweeps. I play special teams, too. I can do everything on the field. Versatility is my biggest thing.”
The 5-foot-10, 190-pound playmaker hauled in 136 catches for 1,186 yards and six touchdowns while at Auburn. He also had 55 total carries, four of which went for scores.
Stove’s time as a return man isn’t exactly extensive as he only had seven total between kicks and punts last year. But he also has played other special teams roles. Stove is considered a solid prospect as a gunner.
Stove is potentially a player to keep in mind for Day 3 of the draft. As a returner, Stove would have an uphill battle with the Bills. The team lost Roberts, but added Brandon Powell via free agency and re-signed another versatility piece in Isaiah McKenzie. Still, McKenzie is only on a one-year deal and Stove could be a long-term prospect for that spot.
