Evaluating the Detroit Lions’ Draft Selection: Ennis Rakestraw

With the 61st overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, the Detroit Lions have added another cornerback to their ranks by selecting Ennis Rakestraw from Missouri. The team’s General Manager, Brad Holmes, has shown a clear intent to reinforce the Lions‘ secondary, which is crucial in the dynamic and pass-heavy nature of modern NFL offenses.

Draft Analysis: The Physicality of Rakestraw

My assessment of the selection is a solid ‘B’. Rakestraw stands at 5-foot-11 and weighs 183 pounds. While his size may not be imposing, he compensates with his highly physical approach to the game. He confronts larger receivers with a tenacity that belies his stature, particularly at the line of scrimmage. This type of aggressive play is characteristic of a defensive mentality that the Detroit Lions are cultivating.

Despite his early promise, Rakestraw’s stock experienced some turbulence. Post-Combine, a groin injury seemed to impact his performance, leading to speculation and concern. His 40-yard dash time did not awe scouts, clocking in at 4.51 seconds, and the injury certainly cast a shadow over his agility and speed.

The Combine Conundrum

The NFL Combine can be a make-or-break moment for draft prospects. Despite a mediocre showing that was later attributed to his groin injury, Rakestraw managed an impressive 10-yard split. This metric reinforces what’s evident on film: Rakestraw’s ability to shadow receivers very closely straight off the snap. Combining his physical play with such agility makes him an attractive option for the Detroit Lions.

The Road Ahead for Rakestraw

Understanding the steep learning curve associated with the cornerback position in the NFL is imperative. For Rakestraw, his rookie year may predominantly be spent absorbing the game from the sidelines. This time will be invaluable for maturing into the pace and physicality of the league. It’s anticipated that by the second year, with further development and the potential departure of Carlton Davis, Rakestraw could assume a more prominent role.

In sum, while Rakestraw’s immediate impact may be limited, his longer-term development bears the mark of strategic thinking by the Detroit Lions. The team can afford to nurture his talent patiently, which is a luxury not every NFL team possesses.

Concluding Thoughts

Overall, this pick for the Detroit Lions demonstrates a commitment to revamping the team’s defensive backfield. Rakestraw was once considered a potential first-round selection, but he now joins the team with time to grow into his role. Though there are questions remaining about his transition to the professional stage, his attitude and physicality are aligned with the Lions‘ ethos. Additional insights and analyses can be found at Detroit Lions Nation.

The verdict is favorable; but as with all draft choices, the true value will only reveal itself in the fullness of time on the gridiron.