The Green Bay Packers had a drama filled day ahead of the first round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Rumors and reports broke left and right about Aaron Rodgers wanting out and a potential trade being close to happening. However, Rodgers did not end up getting traded and the Packers ended up selecting Georgia cornerback Eric Stokes with the No. 29 overall pick.
Stokes was a bit of a surprise for many with the Packers’ first-round selection. Some believe that Green Bay reached to take him, while others are ecstatic about the pick.
No matter where you stand on the selection, there is no doubt that Stokes is an intriguing prospect. He is a big cornerback with elite speed and good playmaking skills. There are some concerns about his ability to tackle and help in the run game, but his skill-set could fit perfectly for the Packers across from star cornerback Jaire Alexander.
Following the Packers’ decision to take him with the No. 29 overall pick, Stokes took to Twitter to speak out about being selected by Green Bay.
It’s just a tweet, but it is clear that Stokes is stoked to be joining the Packers. He has been known as a hard worker and is very coachable, which will help him fit well in Green Bay.
Stokes put together a very good 2020 season with the Bulldogs. He was able to end up with 20 total tackles to go along with four interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, and four defended passes. The numbers may not look huge, but his ability to make plays defensively can be seen clearly by the four interceptions and two defensive touchdowns.
Granted, many fans were disappointed because they wanted the Packers to bring in a wide receiver to help make Rodgers happy. Elijah Moore was available, as was Rondale Moore. But, Green Bay did not love those options and they decided to improve their defense, which was needed as well.
Expect to see Eric Stokes come in immediately and compete for playing time. Kevin King was re-signed to a one-year deal after being torched by Tom Brady and the Buccaneers in the NFC Championship Game, but he may not end up starting all season. If Stokes can develop well, this will end up being a very good pick for the Packers.
