Chicago Bears 2021 NFL Draft: Day 2 cornerback targets

Chicago Bears Day 2 Cornerback Targets: Eric Stokes, Georgia

One of the better overall athletes in this draft class is Georgia’s Eric Stokes.

At his pro day, Stokes ran an unofficial 4.25 seconds in his 40-yard dash. In short, he’s fast, and there’s no doubt about it. His speed is impossible to ignore, but it’s also one of his only elite traits.

Some project Stokes as a standout special teams gunner and more of a third cornerback at the NFL level. Others think he has what it takes to develop into a solid starter on the outside. Yet, he might just fit best as a nickel corner when it’s all said and done.

Stokes could afford to add more strength to his frame and learn to get a little more physical. But, his athletic profile is that of a high-twitch player who can move with the best in the business. It’s tough to overlook his incredible athleticism, but he will definitely have to get stronger in order to hang with NFL receivers.

If the Bears’ pass rush is a top 10 unit in 2021, a cornerback like Stokes would be just fine. But, if he’s left all alone to make a play, it might not always happen. This is a kid who still needs some work but will get taken high due to his eye-popping speed.