The Packers' New Star: Valentine Takes the Field

The Green Bay Packers recently beat the Chicago Bears 20-19, and there was a notable change in their defensive lineup. Eric Stokes, a cornerback who hasn't had any reported injuries, surprisingly played only four defensive snaps. This isn't the first time Stokes' playing time has decreased. In October, it was noted that his performance wasn't up to par, with statistics showing him as one of the worst corners in the league. His playtime dropped significantly, from 37 snaps in a loss against the Detroit Lions to just eight against the Houston Texans. After a bye week, the Packers were healthier, but starting corner Jaire Alexander re-aggravated his knee injury after only 10 snaps. Instead of turning to Stokes, they gave Carrington Valentine, a 2023 seventh-rounder, a chance. Valentine had competed with Stokes for the starting job all summer, and the coaches had confidence in him. Valentine played a season-high 64 defensive snaps against the Bears, making nine tackles and allowing only three receptions for 30 yards. Alexander's injury isn't serious, but if he misses the next game against the San Francisco 49ers, Valentine is likely to step in again. Stokes, in his fourth season, hasn't shown the coaches much lately, and his contract option wasn't picked up for next year. Valentine, however, is still under his rookie contract and has shown promise. This could be the end of Stokes' time in Green Bay, but it's an opportunity for the team to see what Valentine can do.