In a significant blow to the Green Bay Packers' defense, cornerback Eric Stokes has been ruled out for the remainder of the season after suffering another hamstring injury. The news of his absence comes just before the team's crucial Sunday night showdown with the Minnesota Vikings.

Stokes, who has only played in three games this season, has been plagued by multiple hamstring injuries throughout the year. He initially suffered these injuries during training camp, which forced him to begin the season on the Physically Unable to Perform (PUP) list. The rookie cornerback made his return in October but unfortunately suffered yet another hamstring injury while covering a punt against the Denver Broncos.

This marks the third time this season that Stokes has endured a hamstring injury, further exacerbating concerns about his long-term durability. In fact, the talented cornerback missed the final nine games of the previous season due to knee and foot injuries.

With this latest setback, it is highly likely that Stokes will be unable to take the field for the remainder of the year. The Packers will need to carefully consider his fifth-year option during the upcoming offseason, as this recent injury setback raises questions about his overall availability for the team.

To make matters worse for Green Bay, Stokes' absence coincides with the suspension of star cornerback Jaire Alexander for one game. As a result, the Packers will face the Vikings' potent offense without their top two cornerbacks. This puts added pressure on rookie Carrington Valentine and Corey Ballentine, who are expected to take on starting roles at cornerback, with Keisean Nixon likely stepping into the slot position.

The absence of Stokes and Alexander poses a challenge for the Packers, particularly against the Vikings' receiving threats such as Justin Jefferson and Jordan Addison. Green Bay's secondary will need to step up in their absence to contain the formidable passing attack.

As Stokes heads for another injury rehab, it remains to be seen if he can bounce back stronger in the future and fulfill his potential as a key component of the Packers' defense. However, for now, his absence will undoubtedly be felt in the remaining games of the season as Green Bay fights for playoff positioning.