Eric Stokes (Georgia) - 2021 NFL Draft Pick #29 by GB
What The Experts Thought Before The Draft
Pre-Draft Analysis for Eric Stokes (2021 NFL Draft)
Player Profile:
- Position: Cornerback
- College: University of Georgia
- Height: 6'1"
- Weight: 185 lbs
- Year: Junior
Strengths:
- Speed: Stokes possesses elite speed, clocking in at a sub-4.4 second 40-yard dash, which allows him to keep up with fast receivers.
- Agility: His quick footwork and agility enable him to change direction effectively, making it difficult for receivers to create separation.
- Ball Skills: He demonstrated good ball skills during his time at Georgia, showcasing the ability to make plays on the ball with multiple interceptions.
- Physicality: Stokes is not afraid to support the run and will tackle effectively, showing a willingness to contribute in all phases of the game.
Weaknesses:
- Experience: Limited experience in zone coverage schemes at Georgia could be a concern for teams that utilize a lot of zone concepts.
- Technique: While his physical tools are impressive, he occasionally relies too heavily on his athleticism, which can lead to lapses in technique.
- Consistency: At times, Stokes struggled with consistency in coverage, particularly against more polished route runners.
Overall Assessment:
Eric Stokes is an intriguing prospect with significant upside due to his combination of speed, size, and physicality. He has the potential to develop into a starting cornerback at the NFL level, particularly for teams that prioritize press-man coverage. If he can refine his technique and improve his consistency, Stokes could become a valuable asset in the secondary.