The Green Bay Packers announced on Saturday that third-year cornerback Eric Stokes had been placed to the injury list and was ruled out of Sunday night’s game against the Minnesota Vikings. This shocking announcement came at the end of a week that saw Green Bay punish Jaire Alexander for one game for unsportsmanlike conduct. Without their top two cornerbacks, the Packers must face their fiery opponent, who is also 7-8 and fighting for their postseason survival.
As if that weren’t horrible enough, the Packers also announced that Stokes will be placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season. With only 12 games played in 2022 and 2023, it’s unclear whether Green Bay will pick up his fifth-year option (they have until May to decide).
While the situation is regrettable, fans should not be so ready to blame Stokes. Because he is on a rookie contract, the allegation that he was paid and is now avoiding playing cannot be used. To be sure, his NFL future is now in jeopardy. Needless to say, his recuperation throughout the offseason will be critical to his future performance.
Green Bay Packers- 2 Important Stats to Know in the Wake of Eric Stokes Announcement
While Stokes works to save his career, the Packers must focus on Sunday and the Vikings. They were missing depth at defensive back with Alexander absent due to suspension. They addressed the problem by adding a preseason fan favorite to the 53-man roster.
Benny Sap has been signed to the Green Bay Packers 53-man roster to replace Eric Stokes.
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In order to compensate for the loss of Stokes (and Alexander), the Packers signed Benny Sapp to the 53-man roster.
In addition, wide receiver Bo Melton was promoted from the practice squad. Due to injury, Christian Watson and Dontayvion Wicks are both projected to miss the Vikings game. In the Packers’ win over the Panthers last week, Melton had four receptions for 44 yards.
Sapp has already appeared in three games for the Packers this season. He has, however, only played three defensive snaps.
Sapp’s father, Benny Sapp Jr., was a defensive back with the Minnesota Vikings during his own eight-year NFL career.
