Most would agree it is a wise move for Eric Stokes to keep a close eye on Green Bay Packers corner, Jaire Alexander. That is exactly what he did during mandatory minicamp.
“I’m just trying to pick his brain apart and try to learn everything he's done – how to get the ball out and the little things you don’t see,” said Stokes.
Stokes said most people don’t show much work Alexander puts in outside of practice. That is why he is taking in everything from the All-Pro corner, hoping to build similar habits. Even though they have only known each other for a short time, it is safe to say Alexander has made quite the impression on Stokes.
“My first impression was that dude is a freak,” he said.
Stokes recalled a play from the very first practice in which Alexander made a great pass breakup. According to Stokes, it looked like the wide receiver had a clean catch near the sideline until Alexander punched the ball away at the last second.
“He’s different.”
Like Alexander, Stokes was also a first-round pick. Green Bay used the 27th overall pick in this year’s draft to select Stokes after the corner had a standout year at Georgia. During the 2020 season, Stokes intercepted four passes and showcased elite athleticism.
Alexander is one of the most gifted players on the Packers roster, and Stokes aims to be right up there with him. His 4.2 speed definitely serves as a solid baseline, but watching Alexander is how Stokes will become a better corner.
It appears Stokes is already implementing some of what he has learned from Alexander and the coaching staff. During a minicamp practice, Stokes intercepted a pass intended for Marquez Valdes-Scantling and returned it for what would have been a pick-six. Stokes scored two touchdowns during his final season at Georgia and certainly hopes to continue making plays in the pros.
Both Alexander and Stokes are true man-to-man corners. If Stokes can assimilate Alexander’s habits and techniques, it will help him become a better NFL corner. Luckily, Stokes isn’t faced with the pressure of having to contribute right away, which can sometimes be the case for first-round picks.
When Stokes finally sees game action, it will be interesting to see how much he has learned from Alexander and if there are any similarities in their playstyles.
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