5 breakout candidates for the Packers in 2022 season

3. CB Eric Stokes

Following injuries to Jaire Alexander and Kevin King last season, Eric Stokes found himself as the CB1 in Green Bay’s defense. Many rookie cornerbacks would’ve struggled in that situation and got beat over and over.

Not Stokes.

Stokes proved himself week in, week out, and allowed fewer than half of passes in his direction to be completed, per Pro Football Reference. Add in 14 pass defenses and an interception, and it was a truly impressive rookie year for Stokes.

Young cornerbacks face a steep learning curve and it can take multiple years for them to reach their potential. The fact Stokes played so well so early in his career shows his talent.

And the best is yet to come.

Stokes will play alongside Jaire Alexander and Rasul Douglas this season, forming one of the best cornerback trios in the league.

The sky is the limit for the Packers’ 2021 first-round pick. He made some rookie mistakes along the way last year and there are areas to improve.

That is the case for any young player in the league.

Stokes will improve in year two, and it’s exciting to think how good he can become. Stokes could end up a Pro Bowler in the not-too-distant future.