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Packers Seriously Considering Releasing Eric Stokes

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Monday, February 23rd 2026 at 22:32 GMT by Sporting News
      Locales: Ohio, New York, Wisconsin, Nevada, UNITED STATES

Green Bay, WI - February 24th, 2026 - The Green Bay Packers are entering a pivotal offseason, focusing on cap space management and roster optimization. A key decision facing the team revolves around cornerback Eric Stokes, the 29th overall pick from the 2021 NFL Draft. According to reports from NFL Network's Tom Pelissero, the Packers are seriously considering releasing Stokes, a move that could significantly impact the cornerback market and benefit several teams in need of secondary upgrades.

Stokes' tenure in Green Bay has been a frustrating one for both the player and the franchise. While possessing undeniable talent - enough to warrant a first-round selection - he has been plagued by injuries throughout his career. These setbacks have limited his on-field availability and hindered his ability to consistently perform at the level expected of a player with his draft pedigree. Currently, Stokes carries a substantial $11.8 million salary cap hit for the 2026 season (calculated from his original contract), a figure the Packers appear unwilling to shoulder given his recent performance and injury history.

The potential release of Stokes isn't simply a case of cutting ties with a struggling player; it's a calculated move within the larger context of the Packers' roster construction. The team is building around young quarterback Jordan Love and is likely prioritizing allocating cap space to offensive weapons and bolstering the offensive line to maximize his potential. While a strong secondary is always valuable, the Packers seem willing to gamble on finding value at cornerback through later rounds of the draft and potentially through free agency, rather than committing significant resources to a player whose future contributions are uncertain.

However, the news has quickly sparked interest from several NFL franchises. The New York Giants, Las Vegas Raiders, and Cleveland Browns have all emerged as potential suitors, each with a clear need for improvements in their defensive backfield.

New York Giants: The Giants have struggled with consistency in their secondary for several years, often relying on patchwork combinations of veteran players and developing rookies. Adding a player with Stokes' potential, even with the injury concerns, could provide a much-needed upgrade and a potential long-term solution at cornerback. The Giants are rebuilding under a new coaching staff and are actively seeking players who can contribute immediately while fitting into their long-term vision.

Las Vegas Raiders: The Raiders have undergone significant changes in recent seasons, and their defensive identity remains a work in progress. They've invested heavily in pass rushers, but a strong secondary is essential to complement that pressure. Stokes, if healthy, could offer the Raiders a dynamic playmaker capable of covering opposing wide receivers in man coverage and contributing in run support. Their willingness to take a calculated risk on a talented but injury-prone player is a key part of their team-building strategy.

Cleveland Browns: The Browns, known for their fierce defensive fronts, have consistently invested in building a stout defense. While their defensive line remains a strength, their secondary has occasionally been a weak point. Stokes would add a competitive edge and potentially elevate the entire unit. The Browns are in a "win-now" mode and are willing to add proven talent to compete for a championship.

The attractiveness of Stokes lies in the potential return on investment. If released, he is likely to be available at a considerably reduced price compared to his original contract value. This makes him an appealing target for teams operating with limited cap space who are seeking a high-upside player. His athleticism and coverage skills are still highly regarded by scouts and coaches, suggesting that a change of scenery and a focused rehabilitation program could unlock his full potential.

Beyond the immediate impact on these three teams, Stokes' situation highlights the increasing pressure on first-round draft picks to perform quickly and justify their contracts. The NFL is a league that demands immediate results, and teams are less patient with players who fail to live up to expectations. While injuries play a role, consistent performance is paramount.

The Packers will likely weigh the potential benefits of releasing Stokes against the risk of losing a potentially valuable asset. However, given their current roster needs and financial constraints, it appears the scales are tipping towards a parting of ways. For Stokes, a fresh start with a new team could be exactly what he needs to revitalize his career and prove his worth as an NFL cornerback.