Nevertheless, industry reporting suggests re-signing Stokes won’t be straightforward. Executives around the league view him as a sleeper free agent who could command more on the open market than anticipated. While Stokes did well when healthy, his market value will influence the Raiders’ decision, even with their plentiful cap space. Scouts have highlighted his tape from last season and his ability to contribute in coverage as factors attracting interest from other teams.
Stokes joined the Raiders on a one-year, $3.5 million contract, a value tied to his injury history. He missed significant time in 2022 and 2023 but has appeared in every game since 2024, providing the Raiders with a more reliable presence in the secondary. A recent ranking among observers credited him with solid coverage metrics, including a favorable passer rating allowed and strong tackling numbers, underscoring why multiple teams may consider him a value bet at cornerback.
Projected contract outlook remains fluid. Some projections point to a multi-year deal with modest annual value, while others anticipate a higher figure given the demand for depth at cornerback across the league. One analyst floated Stokes as a potential fit for a team seeking immediate improvement in pass defense, and other projections have suggested deals in the neighborhood of two years and around $20 million total, though the exact terms will depend on interest and negotiations.
For the Raiders, the core question is whether they can match or exceed competing offers while leveraging a favorable cap position. Re-signing Stokes would address a clear need in a position group with long-term value, but the market dynamics and Stokes’ health trajectory will dictate the outcome. Regardless of the final agreement, Stokes’ performance last season positioned him as a noteworthy candidate in free agency, with the Raiders aiming to remain competitive if they choose to retain him.
