Former Packers First-Round Pick Makes Bold Claim About Old Team

Las Vegas, NV – July 13, 2025

Eric Stokes, the former Green Bay Packers first-round pick now with the Las Vegas Raiders, has ignited a firestorm with a bold statement about his old team. In a recent interview, the cornerback, drafted 29th overall in 2021, declared, “I hope the Packers don’t lose until they face me.” The comment, made ahead of the 2025 NFL season, has sparked intense discussion among fans and analysts, adding intrigue to a potential Packers-Raiders matchup.

Stokes’ tenure with Green Bay was a rollercoaster. A standout rookie season in 2021 saw him start 14 games, record one interception, and lead the team with 14 pass breakups. However, injuries, including a Lisfranc fracture in 2022 and recurring hamstring issues in 2023, limited him to just 12 games over two seasons. In 2024, he played all 17 games but struggled to regain his rookie form, leading to the Packers declining his fifth-year option. Stokes signed a one-year, $4 million deal with the Raiders in March 2025, seeking a fresh start.

His bold claim reflects both confidence and a desire to prove himself against his former team. The Packers, now led by a revamped secondary including Nate Hobbs and Xavier McKinney, are coming off a strong 2024 season and are favored to contend in 2025. Stokes’ statement suggests he’s eager to test his skills against Green Bay’s high-powered offense, led by quarterback Jordan Love and a talented receiving corps.

Fans have taken to X, with some Packers supporters calling Stokes’ comment a “betrayal,” while others admire his competitive spirit. “He’s got a chip on his shoulder—good for him,” one user posted. Raiders fans, meanwhile, are rallying behind Stokes, hoping he can reclaim his elite potential in Las Vegas. The hashtag #StokesVsPackers is gaining traction, fueling anticipation for a possible showdown.

Stokes’ move to the Raiders offers a chance to revitalize his career under coach Pete Carroll, known for developing defensive backs. If he can harness the speed and athleticism that made him a first-round pick, Stokes could pose a real challenge to Green Bay’s passing game. As the 2025 season approaches, his words have set the stage for a narrative of redemption and rivalry.

Whether Stokes’ hope becomes reality depends on both teams’ paths. For now, his statement has added a layer of drama to the NFL season, ensuring all eyes will be on him when the Raiders face the Packers.

Quote for the graphic: “I hope the Packers don’t lose until they face me.” – Eric Stokes