The Detroit Lions were hit hard by injuries in 2024, and their defense felt it the most. It wasn’t just that they lost key players—it also meant they didn’t get a good look at their rookies, including promising second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
Rakestraw’s rookie year was basically a wash. A hamstring injury early in the season stuck with him, and he only managed six games and 46 defensive snaps. That’s not much to evaluate, especially for a player the front office was so high on—GM Brad Holmes even said Rakestraw and Terrion Arnold were their top two corners in the draft.
Fast forward to 2025 OTAs, and Rakestraw has been turning heads. Multiple reports had him pegged as one of the early standouts, and buzz started building about a potential breakout season. But when asked about the young corner, head coach Dan Campbell wasn’t ready to add fuel to that fire.
Campbell made it clear that Rakestraw will “have a chance to compete,” but stopped short of handing him anything. In fact, his response lacked the usual enthusiasm he’s shown for other players. Interestingly, Campbell also said the plan is to keep Rakestraw on the outside—not in the slot
Dan Campbell Keeps Expectations in Check for Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
