Packers activate key player off the injured reserve

Cornerback Eric Stokes is finally healthy again. On Saturday, the Green Bay Packers activated the third-year player off the injured reserve. He is expected to play against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on Sunday.

As the Packers had an open roster spot, no corresponding move was necessary.

Stokes hasn't played any defensive snaps since week 9 of last season, when he suffered serious knee and ankle injuries. He started this year on the physically unable to perform list.

The cornerback played one game this season, against the Denver Broncos. However, he had just four special teams snaps before hurting his hamstring, which cost him the following seven games.

This is a particularly important moment for Stokes to return, because Jaire Alexander has missed the last five games with a shoulder injury. The All-Pro defender is questionable to play on Sunday.

Over the last couple of weeks, the Packers have started Carrington Valentine, Corey Ballentine, and Keisean Nixon at cornerback.

Other roster moves

Besides activating Eric Stokes, the Packers have made two other roster moves. They have elevated running back Kenyan Drake and wide receiver Bo Melton from the practice squad for gameday.

Both are protections because Aaron Jones, AJ Dillon, and Dontayvion Wicks are all questionable to play. Christian Watson is doubtful.