The Packers have had three training camp practices so far. All three practices were without pads. Green Bay is still without QB Jordan Love who continues his “hold-in”. Packers LB Rashan Gary and CB Eric Stokes have shined bright through three practices. Now over a year from his ACL injury, Gary looks are good as he ever has in his career. Stokes, the former first round pick out of Georgia, knows the number 2 cornerback position is not guaranteed. All he has done so far is impress!
The Packers defense has been the story of camp. The offense is currently under the control of second year QB Sean Clifford. While the Love negotiations carry on, Clifford has not capitalized on the opportunity. The defense has feasted on the inexperienced QB. Rashan Gary had a dominate day 2. Gary, without a doubt, was the star of practice. Gary had three sacks on a four play sequence. He was loud, vocal, and energetic. On one play, LB Kingsley Enagbare sacked Clifford. Gary exploded with excitement on the sideline for his fellow pass rusher. That is the kind of leader the Packers need.
Earlier in the offseason, I wrote an article discussing the need for Hafley to utilize his star players. Rashan Gary, Xavier McKinney, Jaire Alexander, and Kenny Clark all have game changing abilities. Relying on these stars is the key to success. It appears that Hafley is going to turn these guys loose and that is exactly what the defense needs.
Rashan Gary, at his best, is a force to be reckoned with but has been inconsistent at times. Gary, along with is counterpart Preston Smith, will play out of a three point stance under Hafley’s 4-3 scheme. On Tuesday, Gary mentioned that he believes it is easier to rush the passer from a three point stance. He mentioned that it decreases the likelihood of false steps.
This Season is Massive For CB Eric Stokes
Packers CB Eric Stokes stole the show on day 3. Stokes received solid praise from Matt LaFleur and Brian Gutekunst this offseason. Stokes has battled numerous lower body injuries over the past two seasons. LaFleur previously mentioned that this is the best Eric Stokes has looked in a long time. Stokes and Packers WR Christian Watson spent time with a hamstring specialist in Madison, WI this offseason. Thus far, the results are awfully encouraging.
On Wednesday, Stokes was the star of the show. The Packers defense, for the second straight day, gave QB Sean Clifford fits. Eric Stokes had two interceptions and one PBU on the day. Stokes showed his speed and burst on Wednesday. He ran with Christian Watson step by step. He jumped a Christian Watson route for an interception. Leg injuries can hinder a player’s explosiveness. It is an encouraging sign to see Stokes play fast in practice.
Green Bay is counting on Eric Stokes to recapture the flash from his rookie season. The number 2 cornerback spot, opposite of CB Jaire Alexander, is Stokes job to lose. Stokes is battling with second year CB Carrington Valentine. The 2023 7th round pick impressed in his rookie season. This is a massive season for Stokes. The Packers did not pick up his fifth year option which means Stokes will be a free agent after this season. If Stokes can rediscover his rookie year form, DC Jeff Hafley will be cooking with gas.
