Green Bay Packers: 3 CB Targets in 2021 NFL Draft

ATLANTA, GEORGIA – DECEMBER 07: Ja’Marr Chase #1 of the LSU Tigers is unable to catch a pass as he is defended by Eric Stokes #27 of the Georgia Bulldogs in the first half during the SEC Championship game at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on December 07, 2019 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)

Eric Stokes Jr – Georgia, Junior (redshirt)

Another cornerback who looks like a lockdown press corner, Eric Stokes Jr, enters the 2020 season with 1.5 years of starting experience. He’s been second fiddle for most of that time, playing with former first-rounder DeAndre Baker and teammate Tyson Campbell; more on him later. Still, Stokes has been highly productive for one obvious reason; the dude can fly. He will record one of the fastest forty-yard dashes of anybody in this class.

Stokes’ speed allows him to be more aggressive at the line of scrimmage, but he’s got more than just speed. Stokes has the feet and hips to match. He can turn and run with anybody and his closing burst is scary fast. He displays the elite movement skills needed to mirror NFL receivers. That’s evident in his 9 passes defended each of the last two years.

Stokes has not yet recorded an interception, but the major knock on him is his lack of size. At 6’ 1” and 190 pounds, Stokes has a thin upper body and he is not a strong run defender. That frame also allows him to be bullied by powerful receivers, both at the line of scrimmage and along the route. However, that make-up speed helps him regain position and contest the pass.

During Stokes’ time at Georgia, he’s had experience in all coverage schemes, with most of his reps in press coverage. The fact that he’s had success in press and against SEC competition really shows his value. If he can build on that success and add 5-10 pounds, he’ll be a first-rounder and a great fit for the Green Bay Packers press-man scheme.