Las Vegas, NV – May 18, 2025 – Eric Stokes, the former Green Bay Packers cornerback who was released in March, has made a bold statement since joining the Las Vegas Raiders. Stokes, now 25, vowed to exact revenge on his former team, promising to defeat them "in the most humiliating way possible" if the two teams meet, per a report from The Athletic’s Vic Tafur.
Stokes, drafted by the Packers in the first round (Pick 29) of the 2021 NFL Draft, played four seasons in Green Bay, recording 52 tackles, 4 interceptions, and 21 pass breakups. However, persistent injuries—foot, hamstring, and a declining PFF grade of 67.3 in 2024—led to his release to save $12.5 million in cap space. “It was personal,” Stokes told Tafur. “They didn’t believe in me, but I’ll show them.”
The Raiders, in need of cornerback depth after Amik Robertson’s departure, signed Stokes to a one-year, $3.5 million deal. His addition bolsters a secondary featuring Nate Hobbs and Jakorian Bennett, and head coach Antonio Pierce sees potential. “Eric’s hungry,” Pierce said. “He’s got something to prove.”
Stokes’ vow comes as fans speculate about a potential cross-conference matchup in 2025. The NFL’s rotated schedule could pit the Packers (NFC North) against the Raiders (AFC West), possibly in Week 5 or Week 16. “I hope it happens this year,” Stokes said. “I want to embarrass them on national TV, make them regret letting me go.”
Packers fans on X reacted with a mix of disbelief and defiance. “Stokes talking big? Good luck,” tweeted one, while another said, “Raiders better, but Packers will still win.” NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport noted, “Stokes’ chip on his shoulder could make for must-watch TV.”
As OTAs loom, Stokes’ vendetta adds intrigue to an already competitive Raiders defense. For the Packers, it’s a reminder of a talent they let go. Whether their paths cross in 2025 or beyond, Stokes’ promise of revenge ensures the stakes will be high.