By Moses Joshua 
Second-Year Cornerback Offers Encouraging Update After Sideline Collision
The Detroit Lions opened training camp on Sunday with no shortage of injury concerns, but the team received a sigh of relief after a brief scare involving second-year cornerback Ennis Rakestraw.
Rakestraw, who went down during 11-on-11 drills, was later diagnosed with a chest contusion—far better news than many feared in the moment.
Injury Looked Worse Than It Was
The incident occurred behind the play during a full-team session. Rakestraw appeared to collide with an offensive player and immediately went to the ground, clutching his upper chest area. Practice paused momentarily as trainers rushed in. After spending a few minutes on the field, Rakestraw was helped to the sideline and later escorted to the locker room.
The Lions’ communications team issued a brief update shortly after, stating he was “being evaluated for a chest injury.”
For those watching from the sidelines, the scene was unsettling. Given the physical nature of training camp and the position Rakestraw plays, any injury to the chest or upper body carries serious implications. Fortunately, NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport later reported that the injury is “believed to be just a chest contusion… A positive outcome.”
Rakestraw Breaks Silence with Social Media Post
Adding to the optimism, Rakestraw himself took to social media Sunday evening to offer reassurance, simply stating that he’s “good.”
While the team has yet to provide a return timeline, the cornerback’s message indicates that a long-term absence is unlikely. Head coach Dan Campbell is expected to address the situation further during his press conference on Monday morning, possibly providing more clarity on when Rakestraw will be back on the field.
Lions Treading Carefully as Camp Begins
Rakestraw’s injury came during a practice already impacted by roster limitations. Detroit began training camp with nine players on various injury lists and three more sidelined for non-injury reasons. The Lions’ medical staff is already navigating a cautious start, and Rakestraw’s scare adds another reminder of how quickly a preseason narrative can shift.
Still, the early takeaway is overwhelmingly positive: Rakestraw avoided serious injury, and his return could come sooner rather than later.
Bottom Line: For a Lions team with big expectations in 2025, health will be key. Fortunately, their young cornerback avoided a major setback, and his presence may still loom large as camp ramps up in the days ahead.