Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is no stranger to overcoming adversity, but as he returned to the Detroit Lions’ training camp after a brief setback, the cornerback couldn’t shake the feeling that history might be repeating itself. It wasn’t the worst outcome, not by a long shot. However, the disappointment was palpable as Rakestraw found himself sidelined once again—this time by a chest injury suffered during a team drill on the very first day of camp.
For the second-year cornerback, the injury not only interrupted what he hoped would be a strong start to his camp but also brought back memories of his fragmented rookie season. In 2024, Rakestraw had already faced the challenge of working his way into the Lions’ defensive rotation, struggling to stay healthy and gain consistent playing time. Missing four practices early in camp only amplified his concerns of being left behind, especially as his teammates, including fellow second-year cornerback Terrion Arnold, were quickly making their mark.
It’s never easy to watch others seize opportunities, especially when you feel like you’re fighting to prove yourself. From the sidelines, Rakestraw witnessed Arnold shine with impressive pass breakups and near-perfect coverage skills. Arnold’s performance underscored his development as a key player in the defensive backfield—a place Rakestraw was hoping to secure for himself. Meanwhile, another member of the 2024 rookie class, safety Morice Norris, had been making his presence felt with strong plays that sent a message to coaches and teammates alike.
While Rakestraw could only watch, it was clear that the competition around him was fierce. The Lions’ secondary, which had struggled at times in recent years, was beginning to show real potential. New faces, including Arnold and Norris, were quickly asserting themselves as strong contributors to the defense, leaving Rakestraw feeling the pressure to prove he deserved a place among them.
However, as the injury healed and Rakestraw rejoined the team, his focus shifted to what he could control: his determination to catch up and make an impact. He was back on the field, ready to make up for lost time, and aware that every practice, every drill, could be his opportunity to regain his footing in the competition.
Rakestraw’s journey from his rookie season to now has been far from easy. Drafted by the Lions with high expectations, he showed flashes of potential but struggled to find consistent playing time due to both injuries and a deep cornerback group. The 2024 season was a learning experience for Rakestraw, as he worked to adapt to the speed and physicality of the NFL. He spent most of his rookie campaign watching from the sidelines, observing the pace of the game, and trying to soak in as much knowledge as possible.
But as camp progresses, Rakestraw knows it’s time to turn the page. The Lions’ defense is becoming a more competitive unit, and there is no room for complacency. He’s aware that his chance to secure a meaningful role on the team is now, and he’s determined not to squander it.
The cornerback room in Detroit is rapidly becoming one of the more intriguing positions to watch. With players like Arnold and Norris stepping up, Rakestraw must show that he can not only stay healthy but also contribute to the secondary’s growing strength. The Lions have shown faith in young talent, and Rakestraw will need to prove that he can be a reliable asset to the defense. He’s confident that with hard work and determination, he can make up for the time lost during his injury.
For Rakestraw, it’s about taking one step at a time. With his chest injury behind him, his goal now is to get back to the form that made him an appealing prospect when the Lions drafted him. He knows the clock is ticking and every practice counts. As the Lions move through the remainder of training camp, Rakestraw is laser-focused on showing coaches and fans alike that he’s ready to contribute in a meaningful way.
The pressure to succeed is undoubtedly there, but Rakestraw’s resilience has been a key part of his journey so far. If there’s one thing he’s proven in his short time with the Lions, it’s that he’s not one to back down from a challenge. And now, as the competition heats up, he’s ready to show that he can rise to the occasion—no matter the setbacks along the way.
With the preseason games on the horizon, Rakestraw will get his next chance to make an impression. The Lions’ defensive backs are poised to play an integral role in the team’s success this season, and Rakestraw is determined to secure his place in that mix. The story of his return to form has only just begun, but the fight to make up for lost time is something he’s prepared to embrace fully. The Lions’ cornerback depth could be about to get a whole lot stronger—if Rakestraw has anything to say about it.