The Green Bay Packers’ defensive coordinator, Joe Barry, has faced a challenging task in recent times, seemingly running out of answers to shore up the struggling defense.
However, there’s a glimmer of hope on the horizon for the Packers’ defense. The return of cornerback Eric Stokes could prove to be a significant boost. Welcoming back a first-round talent like Stokes has the potential to make a substantial impact.
The exact timeline for Stokes’ return remains uncertain. Nonetheless, there’s positive news as Stokes has recently returned to practice with the team in Green Bay. His absence stretched from training camp through the first four games of the regular season while he was on the physically unable to perform (PUP) list.
It’s been nearly a year since Stokes last set foot on the field, with his absence stemming from a right knee and ankle injury suffered during a mid-November loss to the Detroit Lions in the previous season.
The severity of these injuries led him to opt for surgery, effectively sidelining him for the entirety of 2022.
Eric Stokes is back for the #Packers. https://t.co/hMU6MjpMj7 pic.twitter.com/9dNjVNJnw1
— Bill Huber (@BillHuberNFL) October 3, 2023
The Packers find themselves with a somewhat extended break this week following their “Thursday Night Football” appearance in Week 4. They are preparing for a Week 5 matchup against the Las Vegas Raiders on “Monday Night Football,” affording them a valuable 10 days of rest.
This extended break presents an opportune moment to reintegrate Stokes into the defensive rotation. It’s almost certain that Joe Barry will utilize Stokes as soon as he’s fit and ready.
Barry said he's eager for CB Eric Stokes to get back and when he does he'll incorporate him as fast as possible. "You can never have too many good corners," he said.
— Tom Silverstein (@TomSilverstein) October 2, 2023
During his rookie season, Stokes showcased remarkable speed and playmaking ability in the secondary, tallying 55 tackles, 14 passes defended, and one interception. His potential was evident when the Packers selected him with the 29th overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft.
As the Packers brace for their upcoming challenges, the return of Eric Stokes offers a glimmer of hope and a potential solution to their defensive woes, providing renewed optimism for the Green Bay faithful.