Detroit Lions head coach Dan Campbell expects second-round cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. to show significant improvement in his second year with the team. After a limited rookie season in 2024, where he played only 46 defensive snaps due to injuries, the Lions are hopeful for a better return in 2025. Campbell emphasized that most NFL players experience their biggest growth between their first and second seasons. Unfortunately, Rakestraw missed several games last year due to injury, but when he was on the field, he contributed mainly on special teams, logging 95 snaps in that role. He only saw significant defensive action during blowout games against Dallas and Tennessee, where he allowed five catches on six targets for 62 yards.
The Lions drafted Rakestraw to be part of their solution at cornerback, hoping to pair him with their first-round pick to strengthen the defense. However, his rookie campaign didn’t live up to expectations. Despite the setbacks, Campbell remains optimistic about Rakestraw’s potential, stating that the team isn’t discouraged and expects him to take another step forward in his development. While the Lions continue to add depth to their cornerback group, Campbell emphasized that no position is guaranteed, and Rakestraw will need to earn his role.
General manager Brad Holmes echoed this sentiment, acknowledging that Rakestraw’s injuries limited his opportunities last season but expressing confidence in his future. Holmes believes that Rakestraw’s determination will motivate him to compete for a spot in 2025, even though the team has bolstered its cornerback depth. With the cornerback position being a point of emphasis for the Lions, Rakestraw’s role—whether as a rotational player or primarily on special teams—will be decided during training camp.
