The Las Vegas Raiders signed Eric Stokes to a one-year, $3.5 million contract last offseason, aiming for a fresh start after struggling with injuries and falling out of the rotation during his final three seasons with the Green Bay Packers. He enjoyed a strong bounce-back season, serving as the team’s number one cornerback and holding up in coverage. Stokes recorded five pass deflections across 16 starts while allowing a 56.7% completion rate, 329 passing yards, one touchdown, and an impressive 77.7 passer rating.
Also Read: Eric Stokes Finding Success in Raiders Secondary After Inconsistent Packers Tenure
With the star cornerback set to hit free agency in March, the Raiders should consider extending him now rather than waiting and risking him testing the open market and signing for a much higher price.
Las Vegas Raiders aim to retain top cornerback
Las Vegas Raiders, John Spytek
Feb 25, 2025; Indianapolis, IN, USA; Las Vegas Raiders general manager John Spytek on radio row during the NFL Scouting Combine at the Indiana Convention Center. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
During Tuesday’s press conference at the 2026 NFL Scouting Combine, John Spytek was asked about Eric Stokes, who is set to hit free agency in the coming weeks, as reported by Ryan McFadden of ESPN. The general manager said they have had “good dialogue” with the star cornerback about the possibility of coming back to Las Vegas for the 2026 season. This recent development has excited many Raiders fans.
Speaking to Las Vegas reporters, #Raiders GM John Spytek said he’s had “good dialogue” with CB Eric Stokes regarding the possibility of coming back.
— Ryan McFadden (@ryanmcfadden_) February 24, 2026
Fans react to the latest development
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Jan 5, 2025; Paradise, Nevada, USA; Las Vegas Raiders fans (from left) Marilyn Acasio aka Jungle Jane, Maria Lopez, Geoff Skarr, Alyssa Skarr, Mark Acasio aka Gorilla Rilla, Amber Mielke and Monica Martinez pose during the game against the Los Angeles Chargers at Allegiant Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
Great news. Stokes should be a high priority
— Kemba (@kembageorge) February 24, 2026
Good to hear.
— Dennis McDonnell (@DennisMcDonnel7) February 24, 2026
LETS GOOOOOO https://t.co/O0SoRUjOnr pic.twitter.com/43UNCbC8vv
— JT (@CondorSZN) February 24, 2026
Personally whatever he asks for give it to him
— IracingRick (@Therickyflowers) February 24, 2026
Best Raiders CB since Casey Heyward
— Figueroa💃🏻 (@707poncho) February 24, 2026
That is great to hear Mitch. I’d like to bring them back for sure and then go pick up another top-of-the-line cornerback.
— McRaider (@McT228) February 24, 2026
Here’s a look at Spotrac’sprojected contract
Contract Length: 3 years
Average Per Year: $7.4 million
Total Contract Amount: $22.2 million
Rank Among Cornerbacks: 34th