Jacksonville Jaguars draft: Eric Stokes enters 2021 NFL Draft
The Jacksonville Jaguars need to add depth at cornerback.
The Jacksonville Jaguars have now secured the first overall pick in the 2021 NFL Draft, which they will likely use to take Clemson quarterback Trevor Lawerence. However, they will ten more selections at their disposal and they should consider using one on Georgia cornerback Eric Stokes.
Stokes has entered next year’s draft, according to Seth Emerson of The Athletic. He suited up for nine games in 2020 and registered 20 total tackles, four passes defensed, and four interceptions. Heading into the offseason, the Georgia standout is garnering attention and moving up big boards. He could end up getting his name called as early as the first round.
How does Eric Stokes fit in with the Jacksonville Jaguars?
The Jaguars have many needs in pretty much every defensive position group. Their defensive line may need the biggest boost, but their cornerback room could certainly use a facelift, as D.J. Hayden and Sidney Jones are set to become free agents after the 2020 season. While the team could bring one or the other, they had better add depth to the position.
Rookie cornerback C.J. Henderson will likely hold one starting cornerback spot, but it’s uncertain who will play opposite to him. Tre Herdon has started 24 games in the last two seasons, but the team’s brass would sure likely an upgrade.
While the first overall pick is too early to pick Stokes, the ‘Jags’ could use their second first-round selection, which is projected to be the 21st, on him. The problem with that is that the Georgia cornerback may no longer be on the board by the time they are on the clock again. If they really likely him, they could always trade up. On the other hand, they could stay put and hope he’s available when is their time to chose.
Next. Jaguars must target Ed Dodds for GM job. dark
Choosing Trevor Lawrence with the first overall pick seems like a no-brainer, but using the 21st selection might require further thought, and Stokes could be a player worth targeting with it.