The Green Bay Packers announced Saturday that third-year quarterback Eric Stokes has been placed on the injured list and has been ruled out for Sunday night’s game against the Minnesota Vikings.
The surprising announcement came over the weekend when Green Bay suspended Jair Alexander for one game for unsportsmanlike conduct.
Without their top two cornerbacks, the Packers will have to face their biggest rival, who is also 7-8 and struggling to survive in the postseason.
As if that wasn’t scary enough, the Packers announced that Stokes will be placed on injured reserve for the rest of the season. With just 12 games played in 2022 and 2023, it’s unclear whether Green Bay will pick up his fifth-year option (which is available through May).
As unfortunate as the situation is, fans should not be ready to criticize Stokes. The argument that he was paid because he is on a rookie contract and not currently playing cannot be established. It’s fair to say his NFL future is now in jeopardy. Needless to say, his offseason recovery will be crucial to his future performance.
Green Bay Packers – 2 important stats to know after Eric Stokes announcement
Even if Stokes tries to save his career, the Packers need to focus on Sunday and the Vikings. They lacked depth in defense and Alexandru was out due to suspension.
They solved the problem by adding a preseason fan favorite to their 53-man roster. Eric Stokes of the Packers was placed on injured reserve with a hamstring injury. – Acme Packaging CompanyTo make up for the loss of Stokes (and Alexander), the Packers signed Benny Sapp to the 53-man roster.
Additionally, wide receiver Bo Melton was promoted from the practice squad. Christian Watson and Dontaivion Weekes are expected to miss the Vikings game with injuries.
Melton had four receptions for 44 yards in the Packers’ win over the Panthers last week. Sapp has appeared in three games for the Packers this season. However, he only played three defensive snaps. Sapp’s father, Benny Sapp Jr., played defensive back for the Minnesota Vikings during his eight-year NFL career.
