2021 NFL Draft: One legend that each first round draft pick reminds us of

SANTA CLARA, CA - JANUARY 07: Trevor Lawrence #16 of the Clemson Tigers celebrates with the trophy after his teams 44-16 win over the Alabama Crimson Tide in the CFP National Championship presented by AT&T at Levi's Stadium on January 7, 2019 in Santa Clara, California. (Photo by Sean M. Haffey/Getty Images) /

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Eric Stokes (Photo by Cliff Hawkins/Getty Images) /

NFL Draft 2021: Green Bay Packers pick Eric Stokes, compares to Richard Sherman

Cornerback Eric Stokes seemingly came into his own this past season. After back-to-back seasons in which he flashed potential but not necessarily results, Stokes put it all together in his junior year at Georgia.

On the year, Stokes registered 20 tackles, four interceptions and defended four passes. He’s long, strong, wiry and annoying for opposing wide receivers to deal with. His body frame reminds us of Richard Sherman and his game isn’t too far off from it either.

In the case of both Sherman and Stokes, neither guy is really looking to take the ball away. Instead, they would much rather knock the ball down or remain so close to their man that there isn’t any breathing room for a QB to even attempt a pass in their direction. If for some reason, they see a ball heading their way, they’ll make a play on it and swipe it out of the air if the timing is right.

For years Sherman was a lockdown corner. Even now, with his football mortality staring directly at him, he’s still one of the better corners in the league. While Green Bay fans were hoping for more help on the offensive side of the ball, they may have gotten their new corner for the next decade plus.

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