After four seasons with the Green Bay Packers, Eric Stokes is embracing his new chapter with the Las Vegas Raiders, citing the distinct lifestyle opportunities the city offers. While he holds no ill will towards Green Bay, Stokes openly expressed his enthusiasm for the vibrant atmosphere of Las Vegas.
Specifically, Stokes highlighted the expanded “food options” in Las Vegas as a major draw. The 26-year-old acknowledged his fondness for Green Bay but noted the limitations of late-night dining in the area. “Green Bay is different,” Stokes said, via 8 News Now. “I actually love Green Bay, but after about 10 o’clock, there’s nothing else to eat. So I’m really excited for the food options here [in Las Vegas].”
While Green Bay offers a selection of bars and nightlife, it cannot compare to the 24/7 entertainment scene of Las Vegas. Green Bay is renowned for its friendly, suburban atmosphere, which Packers players often appreciate.
Las Vegas Raiders Offer Better Late Night Food Than Green Bay Packers
Stokes joins the Raiders after a somewhat injury-plagued start to his NFL career. In his four years, he has appeared in only 46 of a possible 72 games. However, 2024 marked his first full season, playing in all 17 games. When healthy, Stokes has demonstrated steady progress as a reliable cornerback. With Jaire Alexander sidelined for much of 2024, Stokes stepped up as the Packers’ primary cornerback, allowing a 92.3 passer rating when targeted, ranking 32nd in the league. He will now compete with Jakorian Bennett and Decamerion Richardson for a starting role opposite veteran Jack Jones, with his experience giving him a potential edge in training camp.
Stokes is one of four defensive additions the Raiders have made in free agency. The team has also re-signed defensive linemen Malcolm Koonce and Adam Butler and extended Maxx Crosby, totaling seven defensive signings for Patrick Graham’s unit.
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Stokes joins safeties Jeremy Chinn and Lonnie Johnson Jr. as new additions to the secondary. Both Stokes and Chinn are expected to elevate a unit that performed at a league-average level in 2024. The Raiders also signed linebacker Elandon Roberts after Robert Spillane’s departure to the New England Patriots.
On the offensive side, the Raiders have made only one free-agent signing, running back Raheem Mostert. However, they did address their quarterback need by trading for Geno Smith before free agency began.
Patrick Graham is one of the few returning staff members retained by new head coach Pete Carroll. Despite the Raiders’ overall struggles in 2024, Graham’s defense was a bright spot. With the offensive-minded Carroll now at the helm, maintaining a strong defensive presence has been a clear offseason priority.