The Detroit Lions have signed rookie cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr.
The Detroit Lions have officially signed their second-round draft pick, cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., from the University of Missouri. As the fifth member of the Lions’ 2024 rookie class to secure a contract, Rakestraw’s signing marks a significant step in fortifying the team’s defensive lineup. With the first-round pick, Terrion Arnold,, still unsigned, Rakestraw’s addition is especially timely as the team looks to bolster its secondary.
Agreement Terms
Details of the contract for Ennis Rakestraw Jr. have been revealed, as the Missouri graduate has agreed to a four-year contract worth $6.4 million. This contract involves $3.4 million in guaranteed money and a signing bonus of $1.5 million. Analysts anticipate that Rakestraw’s contract will impose a cap charge of around $1.1 million for the 2024 season.
Newcomer Preparation and Recovery
Despite being officially signed, Rakestraw’s participation in the Lions’ first two weeks of organized team activities has been limited. The cornerback is still in the process of recovering from core muscle surgery he underwent in the offseason, which has partially hindered his full engagement in team workouts.
The Lions’ strategic drafting and subsequent player acquisitions suggest a focused effort to strengthen their defensive lineup, with the potential to enhance their secondary performance in upcoming games. While awaiting Terrion Arnold’s contract confirmation, the Lions express optimism about the future capabilities of their roster.
The Lions strategically prioritized bolstering their defense by concentrating on bolstering their cornerback lineup in the 2024 NFL Draft. They opted for Rakestraw in the second round, emphasizing their dedication to improving and fortifying their secondary, a strategy complemented by their selection of Arnold as their first pick. Anticipated is Rakestraw’s significant impact on the rejuvenated secondary, injecting fresh talent and a novel dynamic into the team’s defense.
An Overhauled Cornerbacks Group
General Manager Brad Holmes has taken proactive steps to reshape the Lions’ cornerback unit this offseason. Alongside drafting Rakestraw and Arnold, Holmes strategically brought in veteran cornerbacks Carlton Davis through a trade and Amik Robertson via free agency. These fresh additions will team up with returning defensive backs Emmanuel Moseley and Kindle Vildor, solidifying the Lions’ secondary as one of the most competitive and closely monitored units in the upcoming season.
Final Thoughts: Bright Prospects Ahead for the Defensive Backfield
By acquiring Ennis Rakestraw Jr., the Detroit Lions are gearing up for a more robust defensive showing in the upcoming NFL season. The combination of youthful energy and seasoned know-how in the cornerback group promises to give the team a flexible and impactful defense, which could elevate the Lions into a strong contender in the NFC.