All eyes are on the Green Bay Packers heading into Week 18 against the Chicago Bears. They have clawed their way back to a position where if they beat their bitter rivals, they will clinch a berth in the playoffs. It doesn’t get much more pressure-packed and entertaining than that.
One of the most disappointing aspects of the 2023 NFL season has been the health of talented young cornerback Eric Stokes.
Stokes has missed all but three games this season due to injury. In those three games, he didn’t have much of an impact either. After a rookie season full of big plays and looking like a serious coverage cornerback for the Green Bay Packers, things have not gone well.
Green Bay Packers Reveal Discouraging Eric Stokes Injury Update
Unfortunately, Stokes is out once again due to a hamstring injury. In today’s press conference, head coach Matt LaFleur spoke out on Stokes and it was clear how disappointed he was for the young defensive back.
“Every time it seems he’s turning the corner and ready to go, there’s been some kind of setback.”
Matt LaFleur says Eric Stokes came in Saturday, "and it was just a bad deal" with his hamstring. The end of a "frustrating season" with Stokes. "Every time it seems he's turning the corner and ready to go, there's been some kind of setback."
— Ryan Wood (@ByRyanWood) January 3, 2024
At just 24 years old, there is still plenty of time for Stokes to get his career back on track. It seems very likely that the Green Bay Packers will stick with him and hope that he can make a full return in 2024.
Should Stokes be able to get back to full health, it would be a massive step in the right direction for the Packers’ defense. Joe Barry will likely be gone as well, which is another step forward. Green Bay could have a very talented defense with a new defensive coordinator next season.
Hopefully, Stokes will be able to attack his recovery process and get his body right for next season. A combo of Stokes and Jaire Alexander would be idea, along with the other talented cornerbacks that Green Bay has added.