A recent trade proposal between the Detroit Lions and the Carolina Panthers has set the stage for second-year cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. to take a leading role in the Lions’ secondary this coming season. The hypothetical deal, which has been circulating among NFL analysts, would see the Lions part with Rakestraw Jr., along with a 2025 second-round pick and a 2026 fourth-round pick, in exchange for veteran cornerback Denzel Ward from the Cleveland Browns .
While this trade remains speculative, it has sparked discussions about Rakestraw Jr.’s potential as a starter for Detroit. The 23-year-old cornerback, drafted in the second round of the 2024 NFL Draft, spent his rookie season recovering from a hamstring injury sustained during warm-ups before Week 2 . Now fully healthy, Rakestraw Jr. is eager to prove himself. He expressed his determination to be available and contribute, stating, “So now what I just got to do is be available… I’ll be better, I promise.”
The Lions’ coaching staff appears to be leaning towards a youth-focused approach. Reports suggest that Detroit may prioritize developing young talent like Rakestraw Jr. over retaining veteran players such as Amik Robertson, who is entering the final year of his contract . This shift aligns with a broader strategy to build a sustainable and dynamic defense.
Rakestraw Jr.’s college career at Missouri showcased his capabilities. He started all 10 games as a freshman, recording 24 tackles and one sack. Despite a torn ACL in his sophomore year, he returned to start all 13 games in 2022 and continued to perform well in 2023. His physicality, intelligence, and coverage skills make him a promising prospect for the Lions.
If the proposed trade materializes, it would not only bolster the Lions’ secondary with a proven talent like Ward but also provide Rakestraw Jr. with the opportunity to step into a starting role. Such a move could accelerate his development and solidify his place in the team’s future defensive plans.
As the 2025 NFL season approaches, all eyes will be on the Lions’ secondary. Whether through trade or internal development, the emergence of Ennis Rakestraw Jr. as a starting cornerback could be a pivotal moment in Detroit’s defensive evolution.