The Packers head coach said they are sticking with the cornerback rotation between Eric Stokes and Carrington Valentine.
The Green Bay Packers face a challenging road game against the Seattle Seahawks this week in primetime.
The Seahawks are on a four-game win streak heading into Week 15, driven by a potent passing game led by Geno Smith, D.K. Metcalf, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Tyler Lockett.
Although Smith hasn’t posted extraordinary numbers this season, the Packers’ secondary will have a tough time containing the trio of Metcalf, Lockett, and Njigba.
Green Bay is hopeful that All-Pro cornerback Jaire Alexander will return for this matchup. Alexander has missed the last three games due to a torn PCL in his right knee. Meanwhile, the Packers’ secondary has seen frequent changes, with Carrington Valentine and Eric Stokes alternating at cornerback.
The Packers had expected Stokes to secure the CB2 position this season, but his struggles have allowed Valentine to step in. On Thursday, head coach Matt LaFleur addressed the cornerback rotation and delivered a response that disappointed many fans. LaFleur stated, “It’ll stay that way,” according to Matt Schneidman of The Athletic.
Stokes has struggled in pass coverage this season, allowing a 64.4 completion percentage on targets (the second-best of his career), but a concerning 110.1 passer rating when targeted. He has also surrendered three receiving touchdowns, a feat he has repeated twice in his career.
In last week’s loss to the Lions, the former first-round pick gave up just two receptions on five targets. However, he allowed a touchdown and posted a 89.2 passer rating when targeted.
Valentine, the 23-year-old cornerback, hasn’t posted strong advanced stats this season. He has allowed an 81.6 completion percentage on targets and a 118.7 passer rating when targeted.
Despite these numbers, the former seventh-round pick played well against the Lions, allowing just one catch for six yards on three targets, along with a pass deflection.
This presents a challenging situation for LaFleur and defensive coordinator Jeff Hafley. However, if the Packers can get Alexander back for Sunday night’s game, it should provide a much-needed boost for both Stokes and Valentine.
