Raiders Sign Cornerback Eric Stokes to One-Year Deal
The Las Vegas Raiders have added a new piece to their defense, signing former Green Bay Packers cornerback Eric Stokes to a one-year, $4 million contract. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reported the signing on Tuesday, marking a fresh start for the 2021 first-round pick as he looks to make an impact in Las Vegas.
Stokes’ Journey from Green Bay to Las Vegas
Stokes spent the first four years of his NFL career with the Packers, where he showed promise early on but dealt with injuries and inconsistent play in recent seasons. In 2024, he appeared in all 17 regular-season games, recording 41 tackles (29 solo). While he wasn’t a dominant force in Green Bay’s secondary, he was a steady contributor and brings starting experience to the Raiders’ defensive unit.
After being selected 29th overall in the 2021 NFL Draft out of Georgia, Stokes had an impressive rookie season, breaking up 14 passes and displaying strong coverage skills. However, injuries hampered his progress in 2022 and 2023, limiting his ability to build on his early success. Now, with a one-year “prove it” deal in Las Vegas, he’ll have the chance to reestablish himself as a key defensive playmaker.
What Stokes Brings to the Raiders
At 6 feet and 194 pounds, Stokes possesses the size, speed, and physicality needed to excel in coverage. He ran a blazing 4.25-second 40-yard dash at his pro day, showcasing his elite athleticism. His ability to match up with fast receivers and defend against deep passes makes him a valuable addition to the Raiders’ secondary.
Las Vegas has been looking to bolster its cornerback group, and Stokes’ arrival provides additional depth and competition. The Raiders struggled at times in pass coverage last season, and adding a player with Stokes’ skill set could help solidify the defense. If he can stay healthy and recapture his rookie-year form, he has the potential to play a significant role in the team’s defensive schemes.
A Fresh Start with High Expectations
Signing a one-year deal means Stokes is betting on himself to earn a larger contract in the future, whether with the Raiders or another team. Players on “prove it” deals often have added motivation to perform at a high level, and Stokes will be eager to show that he can still be a top-tier cornerback in the league.
The Raiders, under new head coach Pete Carroll, are making key adjustments to their roster, and Stokes could be a crucial part of their defensive rebuild. Carroll is known for his emphasis on strong secondary play, and if Stokes can thrive in this system, he could become a long-term option for Las Vegas.
Looking Ahead to the 2025 Season
As the Raiders gear up for the 2025 season, all eyes will be on Stokes to see if he can make the most of his opportunity. With a fresh start in Las Vegas, the former first-round pick has a chance to showcase his talent, improve the Raiders’ secondary, and potentially secure a long-term future in the NFL.
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