Lions Blog: Lions Draft Pick #61 CB Ennis Rakestraw

Scouting Reports:

Highlights:

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. runs official 4.51-second 40-yard dash at 2024 combine: https://www.nfl.com/videos/ennis-rakestraw-jr-runs-40-yard-dash-at-2024-combine

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Ultimate Missouri Highlights || HD: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hucr65iaOcU

Articles:

2024 NFL Draft Cornerbacks Rankings and Analysis (7 - Ennis Rakestraw, Missouri: Rakestraw (5’113/183) was rated as a standard three-star prospect and the 70th cornerback from the 2020 recruiting class. Though he only enrolled in June due to pandemic restrictions, he somehow managed to start every game of his freshman season recording 544 snaps with 6 PBU and a 63rd % PFF defensive grade. The Dallas, TX product was then dealt a setback by tearing an ACL four games into his sophomore year. Rakestraw diligently rehabbed the ACL injury and was able to return in time to start Missouri’s 2022 season opener against Louisiana Tech and play a career-high 725 snaps, 10 PBU and a 50% completion rate while forcing incompletions on 23% of his targets. Injuries crept up again this year, as he missed four games and was hampered in several others due to a groin injury he sustained in September. Rakestraw still managed to post the highest coverage, tackling and run defense grades of his career despite being compromised in the hyper-competitive SEC. He ran a respectable 4.51s 40-yard dash (67th%) with a laudable 1.52s 10-yard split that ranks in the 90th percentile. His 4.38s shuttle (32nd%) wasn’t his best moment and 13 bench reps (53rd%) would have been the second-lowest number of any 2024 Combine cornerback. Though spindly at 5’113/183, Rakestraw has abnormally long 32” arms which help him probe receivers and be disruptive at the catch point. Comfortable in press coverage and has legitimate mirroring skills that keep him in phase during breaks. Noticeably light and can get washed out when he doesn’t get an immediate read on the play, but is more than happy to step up in run support and do his job on the outside. Had trouble staying on the field with injuries which could add to concerns about his slight frame and questionable long speed. 205 snaps from the slot over the last two years shows his versatility to play inside or outside. He profiles like a less-athletic version of Washington Commanders CB Emmanuel Forbes.) (4-24-24): https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-cornerbacks-rankings-and-analysis

'With the Top Pick' podcast details their top 18 NFL Draft prospects, who could slip, who is a sure bet (Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri: Wilson thinks he will be a first rounder and Spielman disagrees, saying he will be a second rounder. Spielman does have a positives for the player, saying it's hard to find a corner who plays with the mentality that Rakestraw does.) (4-24-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/with-the-top-pick-podcast-details-their-top-18-nfl-draft-prospects-who-could-slip-who-is-a-sure-bet/

2024 NFL Draft: NFL comparisons for the Top 50 prospects (46. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri: Taron Johnson: Rakestraw is a tough, tenacious defender who played primarily in the slot for the Tigers last season, allowing 18 catches on 28 targets for 197 yards, 100 yards after the catch, one touchdown, no interceptions, two pass breakups, and an opponent passer rating of 96.9. If he gets his ball skills together, Rakestraw has the size and playing personality to excel in the slot as an NFL defender as Taron Johnson of the Buffalo Bills has since the Bills got him as a fourth-round pick in the 2018 draft out of Weber State.) (4-18-24): https://touchdownwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-nfl-comparisons-jayden-daniels-caleb-williams-rome-odunze/

2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Cornerbacks (7. CB ENNIS RAKESTRAW JR., MISSOURI - PFF BIG BOARD RANK: 42. Rakestraw possesses a high football IQ and does great work in off-coverage when he can anticipate with space. He is a quick and controlled cornerback who will provide plus reliability as a run defender. His traits are worthy of a top-50 draft pick, but his lack of ball production might have him drafted just outside that range.) (4-8-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-position-rankings-cornerbacks

Surprise top-10 selections, trades, other draft topics (5. Who is one top prospect you expect to slide the farthest? Wilson: CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri. "Ennis Rakestraw Jr. gives me Devon Witherspoon vibes with the way he approaches the cornerback position but he's slightly undersized and didn't time as well as Witherspoon, and those two factors could see him slip out of Round 1 and into Round 2. We saw Joey Porter Jr. suffer a similar fate a year ago (unlike Rakestraw, he's long) and he was one of the best rookie cornerbacks in 2023. Put another way: if Rakestraw does, in fact, last beyond the first round, whichever team lands him will be getting a big-time player.") (4-22-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-draft-biggest-questions-veteran-trades-surprise-top-10-picks-and-answers-to-other-pressing-topics/

Ranking Top 10 Players Lions Could Pick in First Round (6. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. , Missouri: Rakestraw's production, in terms of interceptions and takeaways, won't pop off the charts. But, he has the physicality to be a difference-maker at the next level. He is not afraid to get in the mix against the ground game and displays good instincts. He's a tough boundary corner who was solid in coverage despite garnering just one interception. His toughness and style of play make him an ideal fit for Aaron Glenn's man coverage-oriented scheme.) (4-22-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/ranking-lions-options-first-round

6 prospects whose stock is falling before the 2024 NFL Draft, from T'Vondre Sweat to Keon Coleman (5

CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri. Rakestraw looked like a fringe first-round candidate after knocking down 12 passes as a junior in 2022. He teamed with Kris Abrams-Draine to make the Tigers’ secondary an asset in an 11-win season, though his numbers slumped as opponents learned to throw away from him. Concerns about his ability to be a team’s top corner compounded at the combine. Rakestraw didn’t stand out in any specific venue (aside from opening burst), proving himself as an average prospect in terms of size and athleticism. That seems to have cemented his spot as a Day 2 prospect. That’s still very good, it just won’t come with the extra cash and status of a first-round pick.) (4-19-24): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-6-prospects-draft-stock-falling-tvondre-sweat-keon-coleman

NFL draft: Top defensive players on the board (Ennis Rakestraw, 5-11, 188, Missouri - Scouting report: Good footwork and plays with confidence, but top-end speed is lacking. Fact: Only one interception in 36 career games (32 starts). Gone by: Mid-second round.) (4-17-24): https://apnews.com/article/nfl-draft-2024-top-defensive-players-e8a6bc15052d112c5491c8525b6f0f64

2024 NFL Draft Stock – Post-Combine III (Down - Ennis Rakestraw, CB, Missouri: Earlier in the year at beginning of the media turning its attention to the draft process, there were many mock drafts that projected Rakestraw to go in the first round. I never had Rakestraw in the first round of my 2024 NFL Mock Draft because I never heard a first-round grade from a team source. NFL staff that attended the Missouri pro day last week told WalterFootball.com that Rakestraw ran slowly and did not put together an impressive workout. Some sources said Rakestraw would not get consideration from them until the third round of the 2024 NFL Draft. As the process has evolved, Rakestraw looks more and more like the second-day prospect, which teams had projected him as at the end of the season.) (3-26-24): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024stock_29.php

2024 NFL Draft Stock – Post-Combine V (Up - Ennis Rakestraw, CB, Missouri: There could be a run on cornerbacks that starts in the middle of the first round, so all of the consensus first-round corners could be off the board by the mid 20s. There are teams picking late in the first round that could use cornerback help, including the Detroit Lions at No. 29 and Kansas City Chiefs at No. 32. The level of need helps Rakestraw, who is in the running to be a first-round pick, per multiple team sources. Rakestraw did not put up huge workout numbers, but sources said his those numbers were impressive considering he was only a few weeks removed from hernia surgery. If he had the luxury of other players with time to train for the workout instead of doing post-surgery rehab, those sources believe Rakestraw would have had very good workout results. Rakestraw is a well-rounded corner and a gritty player who could have his name called on the opening night of the 2024 NFL Draft.) (4-16-24): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024stock_31.php

NFL Draft: Position-by-position scouting report of early entries (Tier 2 - Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (Missouri)

Height: 5-11 | Weight: 183 pounds. Accolades/notable statistics: Allowed zero touchdowns in 1,017 career coverage snaps. Pro comp: Seattle Seahawks CB Devon Witherspoon as a hitter/Tennessee Titans CB Roger McCreary. "His competitiveness and physical style of play jump off the tape," Spielman said. "He is more than willing in run support and tries to be a tone setter on defense. He is quicker than fast. Quick twitched out of transition to close to routes in front of him. He can be sticky in man coverage mirroring wide receivers out of breaks but may lose the foot race if extended down field. Can be grabby and look spastic at times with his movement skills. Not a lot of interception production [one in four years] but does get his hands on balls for PBUs [23 since 2020, fifth-most in SEC]. Great effort to save a touchdown chasing from behind on a deep crossing route to save TD vs Florida. Should eventually develop into a starter." Highest he could get drafted: Low first round. Lowest he could get drafted: Middle of second round. Final Thoughts: Rakestraw Jr. possesses a slimmer build, but he plays with the aggression of someone much bigger. His 32-inch arms allow him to play strong in press coverage and jam receivers immediately off the line of scrimmage. Rakestraw is also strong at anticipating his punches to the football's arrival at the high point of the catch. He is also quick to turn and jump on routes swiftly. He is strong in the slot, and he is a solid tackler. The questions are what kind of playmaker he can be in the NFL given his slight frame as well as what kind of durability he may have. Rakestraw is thin, and he torn his ACL back in 2021. He also suffered a groin injury in 2023 and missed the Senior Bowl after having core muscle surgery.) (12-21-23): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/college-football/nfl-draft-position-by-position-scouting-report-of-early-entries

Lions 2024 draft: A cornerback for every round (Second round: Ennis Rakestraw, Missouri. What I like: Really good jam at the line in press-man coverage. Carries himself with confidence and feisty competitiveness. Very good fluidity and balance even when at top speed. Understands how to play to his help and to the sideline. Wasn’t afraid to take on the best competition. Negatives: Play speed is only average and he lacks a real closing burst to the ball. Injury concerns: missed most of 2021 with a torn ACL, missed 4 games in 2023 with a groin injury and then had core muscle surgery. Measured in lighter (183) and shorter (5-foot-11) than expected with tiny hands (8.5″). Will need a lot of work to avoid illegal contact and holding penalties. Inefficient mover in reacting to routes and passes in front of him. Rakestraw is at his best playing up in the face of a receiver, confidently jamming and disrupting routes before the release. He’s willing as a tackler, too. Questions about his size to play that style, his durability and his long speed figure to keep Rakestraw on the board when the Lions can pick him in the second.) (4-13-24): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/lions-2024-draft-cornerback-prospect-scouting-reports/

13 best cornerbacks in 2024 NFL Draft, ranked (6. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri: Rakestraw Jr. didn’t test particularly well, but he’s one helluva football player. Rakestraw Jr. showcases lightning-quick feet in coverage and he makes fluid transitions to mirror his receiving assignment in and out of their breaks. Rakestraw Jr. has good length for the position and he loves to disrupt a receiver’s timing at the line of scrimmage.) (4-12-24): https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2024/4/4/24107064/2024-nfl-draft-cb-rankings-cooper-dejean-quinyon-mitchell

2024 NFL Draft: Top 10 CBs don't feature one particular standout, but it's a good class (7. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri: Rakestraw’s play is infectious. He takes on every blocker like it's an insult and relishes getting man or press coverage assignments, whether it’s inside or outside. Rakestraw is undersized, weighing in at 183 pounds at the combine, and will still need to channel the energy he brings to the game as his aggressive and handsy style, with lack of overwhelming athleticism, will draw penalties at the next level. His ability to hold his own against different types of wide receivers, with potential to play snaps in the slot, gives Rakestraw a path as a starter. Carlton Davis is bigger, but he is a good comparison at the position for Rakestraw.) (4-11-24): https://sports.yahoo.com/2024-nfl-draft-top-10-cbs-dont-feature-one-particular-standout-but-its-a-good-class-140050340.html

2024 NFL Draft CB rankings: 5 first-round grades among top 10 prospects (7. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri — 5-11, 183, Junior. Overview: Rakestraw starred at the prep level for Duncanville in the Dallas area, earning a three-star grade from recruiters, but proved better at the college level than expected. He enjoyed his best statistical season for the Tigers in 2022, registering 35 tackles, including 4.5 for loss and 12 passes broken up while forcing three turnovers (two forced fumbles, one interception). He struggled with injuries, at times, at Missouri, but again impressed in limited duty in 2023, before opting to head early to the NFL with career totals of 107 tackles, including eight for loss and 24 passes broken up, albeit just one interception. Strengths: Punches above his weight class, showing the grit and physicality needed to succeed in the NFL, as well as disproportionately long arms (32"), which he uses effectively to cloud the vision of receivers as the ball arrives. Lives up to his name, "raking" at the ball when confronting opponents, forcing three fumbles over his career. Light feet and loose hips to turn and run with receivers, showing a smooth transition to change direction. Eased concerns about his speed and explosiveness with a solid effort at the combine, including a 4.50-second 40-yard dash and 10'0 broad jump. Experienced playing left, right and nickel cornerback positions, easing his transition to the NFL. Concerns: Average size for the position and already has a history of injury (including a torn ACL in 2021 and groin injury in 2023 that took him out of the lineup for four games). Quick but not fast, projecting better as a nickel corner for some. Average ball-skills for the position, turning 24 career pass breakups into just one interception. Summary: Rakestraw is better than the sum of his parts, combining athleticism, instincts and competitiveness to emerge as a legitimate star the past two seasons at Missouri. His slim frame, durability red flags and average ball skills may push him down the board for some, but I see a true football player who will ultimately outperform some of the corners of this class perhaps selected ahead of him with better "tools." Don't be surprised when Rakestraw becomes a quality starter at nickel for a playoff contender. Grade: Second-to-third round) (4-11-24): https://www.foxsports.com/stories/nfl/2024-nfl-draft-cb-rankings-5-first-round-grades-among-top-10-prospects

Meet the Prospect: Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (4-10-24): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/meet-the-prospect-ennis-rakestraw-jr-2024-nfl-draft

Brooks: Ennis Rakestraw Jr. would be a 'perfect fit' for Lions | 'Path to the Draft' (4-9-24): https://www.nfl.com/videos/brooks-ennis-rakestraw-jr-would-be-a-perfect-fit-for-lions-path-to-the-draft

Detroit Lions 2024 NFL Draft First-Round Big Board (No. 29 overall - CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri: While Rakestraw doesn't have the elite takeaway numbers, he offers eye-popping physicality upon watching his tape. The cornerback has no hesitation coming up to play the run. Though he posted subpar testing numbers at the NFL Scouting Combine, his tape is worth trusting.) (4-8-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/first-round-lions-2024-big-board

Scout's Notebook: Breakout prospects to watch (Ennis Rakestraw Jr.: The 5-11 3/8, 183-pound cover corner had plenty of fans entering the combine, but a 4.51-second 40-yard dash slowed the hype train. Though speed is rarely an issue on tape when you watch Rakestraw challenge elite receivers in the SEC, the disappointing time on the stopwatch might knock the Missouri standout out of Round 1. Regardless, I still see a cornerback whose aggressive bump-and-run tactics force wideouts to play outside of their comfort zone. For teams that employ more man-to-man coverages to disrupt the timing and rhythm of the passing game, the ultra-competitive defender could shine early in his pro career.) (4-5-24): https://www.nfl.com/news/2024-nfl-draft-keon-coleman-bralen-trice-among-10-prospects-whose-tape-trumps-subpar-testing

One Cornerback Lions Could Select in Every Round of NFL Draft (Round 1 - Ennis Rakestraw, Missouri: Of the several cornerbacks that are in the first round conversation, Rakestraw seems like an ideal pick for the Lions. He plays fast and physical and is not afraid to stick his nose in against the run. With the Lions' affinity for corners that can tackle, Rakestraw looks to be a solid fit. Rakestraw had dealt with a core muscle injury that required surgery after the season, but he should be ready to contribute right away. His frame looks the part of a ready-made NFL contributor, and he has the ball skills to be a takeaway artist.) (3-25-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/cb-every-round-2024-draft

Ennis Rakestraw Jr.'s 3 Best NFL Draft Fits (DETROIT LIONS: The Lions are emphasizing improving their cornerbacks this offseason after allowing a 27th-ranked 247.4 pass yards per game last season. An inability to stop the bleeding through the air partially led to their demise in the NFC Championship Game. Lions general manager Brad Holmes is responding accordingly. Carlton Davis III was acquired via trade, but there's wiggle room for another acquisition. Cam Sutton, who played a defense-high 1,077 snaps last season, was released from his contract after a run-in with the law. Sutton's unexpected release creates another hole for Detroit in the defensive backfield. Adding Rakestraw Jr. to a core that features Davis III and Emmanuel Moseley would be a step in the right direction.): https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2024/03/25/ennis-rakestraw-jr-nfl-draft-fits

TWENTYMAN: 8 pro days to watch this week (It will be interesting to see if cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. opts to run at Missouri's pro day and try to improve on his 4.51 seconds in the 40 at the Combine. Teams will probably feel better about him late in the first round if he can get that number in the 4.4's. The one knock on him from draft analysts watching the film is his recovery speed.) (3-17-24): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/twentyman-8-pro-days-to-watch-this-week-williams-zinter-mckinstry

4 prominent prospects with big injury risk questions in the 2024 NFL draft (Ennis Rakestraw, CB, Missouri: Rakestraw gained some momentum between the end of the college football season and the NFL Scouting Combine. The perceived rise likely ignored some legitimate injury concerns with the talented Missouri cornerback. Rakestraw missed the entire 2021 season with a torn ACL. He bounced back nicely for the next year, but soft-tissue injuries cropped up again in 2023. Rakestraw missed two games with a groin injury, then missed the Tigers’ season finale and bowl game with a separate core muscle injury. That also caused him to miss the Senior Bowl. At the combine, Rakestraw measured an inch shorter and eight pounds lighter than his listed weight at Mizzou, and the 183-pound frame is a slight one. He did participate in some athletic testing but pulled out early, citing the ongoing injuries.) (3-13-24): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/4-prominent-prospects-with-big-injury-risk-questions-in-the-2024-nfl-draft/

Top CBs in the 2024 NFL Draft: Ranking Terrion Arnold, Quinyon Mitchell, and Others (8. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri: Man coverage might unequivocally be the most enjoyable coverage to watch. It’s one CB and one WR on an island, ruthlessly fighting to maintain leverage and positioning through a four-second rep. There are many good man coverage CBs in this class — Caelen Carson, Josh Newton, and Max Melton among them — but Ennis Rakestraw Jr. might be the best pure press-man CB. Rakestraw doesn’t have elite ball production or speed, and some will ask if he’s an NFL-caliber playmaker. But ahead of the catch point, he’s one of the best CBs in the class, using fast feet, fluid hips, disciplined technique, and quick reaction speed to blanket WRs off the line.) (3-8-24): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cbs-nfl-draft-2024/

Lions draft prospect of the day: Ennis Rakestraw, CB, Missouri (3-8-24): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/03/07/lions-draft-prospect-ennis-rakestraw-scouting-report/

5 NFL Combine performances that could work in Detroit Lions’ favor (Ennis Rakestraw, CB, Missouri - Why people are concerned: His long speed and weight. While the 40-yard dash may mean more for defensive backs and wide receivers than the other position groups, it’s still just part of the overall data on players. Yet, Lions fans have been burned by corners not panning so many times that anytime a corner doesn’t run in the 4.3s, he gets labeled “slow.” Rakestraw’s 4.51 40-yard dash at the Combine—where he was nursing a groin injury—drew a lot of negative reactions. Rakestraw also checked in at 183 pounds, which has raised some questions about his ability to hold in the NFL, especially in run support. Potential drop? He could drop out of the first round. Why he’s worth it for the Lions: He’s still the same guy fans wanted before the Combine. Both knocks on Rakestraw’s performance were a bit surprising because they seemed representative of what you see in his game film. He looks like a 4.5-second 40-yard dash player on the field and he basically checked that box. Would it have been nice to see him run faster, sure, but his time was anticipated. Additionally, he actually checked in eight pounds heavier than expected, as he was listed as 175 by Missouri. Is he still light? One can surely make that argument. At the same time, he was likely playing lighter in college and was still a very impactful player in run support, so this is another box check in my mind. For me, he performed close to expectations, and the only real concern I have with selecting him at pick No. 29 is his injury history. Only the Combine medical checks will help teams understand his overall health, but unfortunately, we won’t have access to that information.) (3-7-24): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/3/7/24091169/5-nfl-combine-performances-work-detroit-lions-favor-draft

2024 NFL Scouting Combine winners and losers by the numbers: Defense (LOSER: CB ENNIS RAKESTRAW JR., MISSOURI - Rakestraw was a first-round prospect on PFF’s big board entering the combine, but now it seems unlikely that he'll hear his name called in the top-32 picks. He only weighed in at 183 pounds, which puts him in the 14th percentile for cornerbacks. Despite not carrying that much weight, his 4.51-second 40-yard dash was only in the 44th percentile while his 1.54-second 10-yard split was in the 53rd percentile. He also had a 10-foot broad jump, which is in the 35th percentile for corners. Rakestraw is an undersized corner with just average athleticism for the position, making it likely that he slips to Day 2.) (3-6-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-scouting-combine-winners-and-losers-by-the-numbers-defense

10 players whose 2024 NFL Draft stock is rising (Rome Odunze!) and 5 who are falling after the combine (Stock down: Missouri CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. - Rakestraw was a popular pick to earn a place in the back half of round one. Instead, he raised more questions than he answered at the combine after a lackluster performance on the field. He measured out slightly smaller than he was listed as a Tiger, then put together a thoroughly average performance on the turf. This doesn’t mean Rakestraw can’t be a proficient pro, just that he may have ceded significant ground to the rest of an unsettled and deep group of cornerbacks. A big showing in Indianapolis could have moved the Mizzou product into consideration to be the first defensive back off the board. Instead, he’ll likely linger into the back half of the first round behind guys like Mitchell and Alabama’s Terrion Arnold.) (3-5-24): https://ftw.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-stock-watch-combine-rome-odunze-tvondre-sweat-amarius-mims

3 Lions thoughts from the NFL Scouting Combine (Intangibles still rule: I’m on record as a big fan of Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw, who is known for his hard-hitting and sure-tackling as much as his great coverage. But he also tested poorly before pulling out of the combine with a groin injury, and also dealt with groin and abdominal issues last year in Columbia. He also tore his ACL in a practice in 2021. Throw in his small frame -- he measured 5-foot-11 and 183 pounds in Indy -- and he might have work to do to sew up his place in the first round.) (3-4-24): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/03/3-lions-thoughts-from-the-nfl-scouting-combine.html

2024 NFL Scouting Combine: Stock report for every position (STOCK DOWN: ENNIS RAKESTRAW JR., MISSOURI - Rakestraw was a first-round prospect on PFF’s big board entering the combine, but now it seems unlikely that he'll hear his name called in the top-32 picks. He only weighed in at 183 pounds, which puts him in the 14th percentile for cornerbacks. Despite not carrying that much weight, his 4.51-second 40-yard dash was only in the 44th percentile while his 1.54-second 10-yard split was in the 53rd percentile. He also had a 10-foot broad jump, which is in the 35th percentile for corners. Rakestraw is an undersized corner with just average athleticism for the position, making it likely that he will slip to Day 2.) (3-4-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-scouting-combine-stock-report-for-every-position

What Lions Can Learn from Day 2 of NFL Combine (Up-and-down day for Missouri duo - Missouri's defense boasts two solid cornerback options in this year's draft, with both Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Kris Abrams-Draine looking the part of eventual NFL starters. Of the two, Rakestraw is valued higher as a potential first-round pick. However, an area that was supposed to set Rakestraw apart was his physicality. He weighed in at just four pounds heavier and at the same height as Abrams-Draine, but the showing on tape still gives Rakestraw the leg up. Abrams-Draine ran the better "40" of the two, finishing with a 4.44 mark ahead of Rakestraw's 4.51. For Rakestraw, Missouri's Pro Day will be a big opportunity to put a forth a faster time. Rakestraw's initial Relative Athletic Score was just 4.79, a poor athletic grade that ranks near the bottom of cornerbacks. His physicality should still make him highly coveted amongst organizations, but it was a missed opportunity for him to stand out amongst the crowded crop of corners. ) (3-2-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/what-lions-learned-day-two-2024-combine

Combine takeaways: DB grades, standouts (Missouri CB Ennis Rakestraw: C+. Rakestraw was supposed to be the much larger Missouri cornerback -- the other being Kris Abrams-Draine -- and that was supposed to be the separator. He measured in at the same height as his teammate and was just four pounds heavier. He ran a good, but far from amazing 4.51-second 40-yard dash, and the 10-foot broad jump will be around the 35th percentile at the position since 1999.) (3-1-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/draft/news/2024-nfl-combine-takeaways-grades-for-top-db-prospects-plus-other-winners-and-losers/

NFL Combine measurements: DB winners, losers (DB losers - Ennis Rakestraw Jr.: The 40-yard dash time wasn't ideal (4.54 seconds), yet Rakestraw still has demonstrated first-round talent on the tape. His quick feet showed in other drills, while the tape showed he can play press corner. With speed at the forefront of the NFL now, could the 40 time knock Rakestraw down a round? His weight (183 pounds) doesn't help matters much and neither does his RAS score.) (3-1-24): https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/2024-nfl-combine-results-measurements-db-winners-losers-as-tyler-owens-nate-wiggins-make-waves-in-workouts/

NFL Combine results: 10 standouts from the cornerback group (Ennis Rakestraw, Missouri (5-foot-11 1⁄2, 183 pounds): If you’re a Rakestraw fan, you were probably okay with how his performance in Indianapolis went. After running a 4.51 40-yard dash and then not participating in on-field drills—he was reportedly participating despite a groin injury—he left you wanting more, especially after seeing several others in the class show off their speed. But this is a good reminder that the Lions lean on game film and GPS data over 40-yard dash times, and with Rakestraw having an “average” day, not drawing any extra attention, it’s probably just fine with Lions general manager Brad Holmes.) (3-1-24): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/3/1/24087858/nfl-combine-results-10-standouts-cornerback-group-2024-draft

NFL combine: CB class is talented without a clear No. 1 — which is good news for plenty of teams (Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri - Rakestraw didn’t compile a whole bunch of interceptions during his career at Missouri, but he’s got the frame and athleticism to grow into a starting-caliber cornerback in the NFL. Being able to show off that skill would make a coveted prospect that teams can talk themselves into.) (2-29-24): https://sports.yahoo.com/nfl-combine-cb-class-is-talented-without-a-clear-no-1--which-is-good-news-for-plenty-of-teams-014010147.html

Lions have options with talented & deep cornerback draft class (Rakestraw seems to be a good fit for what new Lions pass game coordinator and defensive backs coach Deshea Townsend talked about this week in terms of the physicality and tackling he wants from that position. Rakestraw is a rangy corner who plays with physicality and toughness. He knows it, too. "My physicality and my tackling," Rakestraw said Thursday at the Combine when asked what sets him apart from the other corners in the league. "It's you vs. me and who is better? It's who wants it more.") (2-29-24): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-have-options-with-talented-deep-cornerback-draft-class

2024 NFL Combine preview: 10 cornerbacks the Detroit Lions should watch (Ennis Rakestraw, Missouri (6-foot-0, 175 pounds): Rakestraw is the most mocked player to Detroit right now, as draft analysts—like NFL Network’s Daniel Jeremiah and ESPN’s Matt Miller—have identified him as one of the top players in this class who would fit in with the Lions' culture. Physical at the line-of-scrimmage, Rakestraw checks in as the No. 2 run defender amongst the cornerbacks at the Combine (behind only Arnold) with an 89.0 grade from PFF. Comfortable in press-man and zone, Rakestraw’s instincts and awareness allow him to make plays all over the field.) (2-27-24): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/2/27/24083694/2024-nfl-combine-preview-10-cornerbacks-prospects-detroit-lions

Missouri draft prospects getting lots of Lions attention lately (Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw and defensive end Darius Robinson are very popular picks for the Lions at No. 29. One or the other has been featured there in recent mocks from Athlon, Touchdown Wire, ESPN, CBS and The Athletic, among others. NFL.com draft analyst Daniel Jeremiah shed some insight on why so many folks believe the Tigers duo make good fits in Detroit. Jeremiah talked about both Rakestraw and Robinson in his pre-combine conference call this week. Later in the conference call, Jeremiah turned his attention to Rakestraw’s potential fit with the Lions. Jeremiah currently projects RAkestraw to the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 21 overall, but he does like the potential pairing with the Lions at No. 29. “I think he is in that range, yeah. I have him a little bit higher than that. I know in talking to teams I’m a little bit higher on him than some of the teams are. The feistiness and toughness, the aggressiveness that he plays with, the

energy, the passion that he plays with, yeah, he fits 100% with Detroit.”) (2-24-24): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/02/24/missouri-draft-prospects-detroit-lions-projections-ennis-rakestraw-darius-robinson/

NFL Draft analysts identify 5 prospects who fit Detroit Lions' culture (“Rakestraw is my guy,” Miller said in his video conference. “That is my draft crush this year [...] If you’re looking for a prototypical Detroit Lions-type player, I think that physicality at the line of scrimmage—he is a great tackler in space as well, especially for not being the biggest guy. He’s probably going to come in at like 6 foot, 190 pounds, maybe 195 if we’re lucky. He’s not a striking physical player when you’re just looking at height, weight, strength, but man, he absolutely plays as one of the most physical corners in this draft or in any draft. He’s right there with some of the best corners I’ve evaluated at playing near the line of scrimmage and using that physicality.” Rakestraw’s stock is on the rise in the draft community, but at this time, he is projected to likely be available at the end of the first round, close to when the Lions are on the clock at pick No. 29 overall. “I think he is in that range, yeah,” Jeremiah said. “I have him a little bit higher than that. I know in talking to teams (that) I’m a little bit higher on him than some of the teams are. The feistiness and toughness, the aggressiveness that he plays with, the energy, the passion that he plays with, yeah, he fits 100% with Detroit.”) (2-23-24): https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2024/2/23/24080397/nfl-draft-analysts-identify-5-prospects-who-fit-detroit-lions-culture

Could Lions trade up in draft? Daniel Jeremiah identifies three targets for Detroit (With three more picks in the top 100 after No. 29, the Lions do have the ammo to get aggressive. Jeremiah could see them making a move for one of three corners. "If you’re moving up for a corner, I love Terrion Arnold," he said. ... "He’s one, to me, that would be worth going up and getting if he started to drift a little bit and maybe be aggressive on that one. He would fit with them, as well as (Ennis) Rakestraw and Quinyon Mitchell. Those three guys would be trade targets for me in terms of what fits Detroit." And Rakestraw, who "has some (Darius) Slay in him," said Jeremiah, was a lockdown corner at Mizzou whose stock is rising ahead of the draft.) (2-23-24): https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/detroit-lions-three-first-round-trade-targets-in-nfl-draft

Could Ennis Rakestraw Jr. be Lions' next Darius Slay? 'He fits 100 percent with Detroit' (2-22-24): https://www.audacy.com/971theticket/sports/detroit-lions/ennis-rakestraw-jr-fits-100-percent-with-detroit-lions

Why Daniel Jeremiah thinks OL Zach Frazier is a good fit for Lions (Along with Frazier, Jeremiah mentioned Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. as another player who fits Detroit's style of play with feistiness, toughness and passion.) (2-22-24): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/why-daniel-jeremiah-thinks-ol-zach-frazier-is-a-good-fit-for-lions

Is Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Lions' CB of Future? (2-22-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/ennis-rakestraw-jr-lions-cb-of-future

NFL Analyst Has 'Draft Crush' on Missouri Cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (2-21-24): https://www.si.com/college/missouri/football/nfl-analyst-has-draft-crush-on-ennis-rakestraw-jr

Get to know Ennis Rakestraw Jr., the CB mocked to the Lions in 2024 NFL draft (2-21-24): https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/02/21/who-is-ennis-rakestraw-jr-missouri-cornerback-cb-could-be-detroit-lions-target-2024-nfl-draft/72685805007/

NFL Draft Rumors: Missouri CB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Earning Rave Reviews Ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft (2-21-24): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/nfl-draft-rumors-missouri-ennis-rakestraw-jr-rave-reviews-2024-nfl-draft/

ESPN analyst: Hard-hitting Missouri CB is a Lions prototype in NFL draft (2-20-24): https://www.mlive.com/lions/2024/02/espn-analyst-hard-hitting-missouri-cb-is-a-lions-prototype-in-nfl-draft.html

2024 Combine preview: Cornerback (5. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri, 6-0, 188: He only intercepted one pass in college, which could be a concern for some teams, but he is very sticky in coverage. He plays with high energy and is physical supporting the run.) (2-20-24): https://www.detroitlions.com/news/2024-combine-preview-cornerback

Detroit Lions cornerback targets at NFL scouting combine (Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri - Rakestraw rose through the season, as Missouri enjoyed a banner campaign, particularly on defense. He doesn't have flashy stats when it comes to interceptions or passes defensed, but his tape shows a player that is unafraid of playing physical in the run game. The Lions desire this level of physicality, as they want corners and safeties who are not hesitant to break downfield and deliver a hit in the run game. Rakestraw's compact, 6-foot frame allows him to pack a punch while still holding his own in coverage.) (2-19-24): https://www.si.com/nfl/lions/news/lions-nfl-combine-targets-cornerbacks

Why two Mizzou players are well-positioned to be first-round NFL draft picks (Rakestraw’s status as a first-round talent seems more secure than Robinson’s, or at least more established. The 2024 cornerback class is deep, as draft analyst Joe DeLeone detailed on the most recent episode of the Eye on the Tigers Podcast, and Rakestraw missing the Senior Bowl — and the end of the college football season — with an injury limits some of the intel available to teams on his talent. “Admittedly, I’m not as bullish as a lot of other people are with Rakestraw,” DeLeone said. “There’s all of these other guys that are a lot more athletic and explosive than Rakestraw. Him not having a ton of availability to show that stuff off or show off his skills, it does hurt him throughout this process.” Rakestraw appeared in nine games in 2023, making 35 tackles, breaking up four passes and forcing one fumble. Opposing teams targeted Rakestraw just 28 teams throughout the season, leading to 18 completions — indicative of how scouting college cornerbacks can be difficult because of how rarely opponents are willing to but the ball in their vicinity. Ten of Rakestraw’s tackles were classified as key stops by Pro Football Focus, an indicator of his run-stopping and open-field tackling skillset. That particular trait could be insurance that if Rakestraw falls past the first round, it won’t be far. “That’s always something that I pay close attention to with a prospect, especially a corner prospect, is intent and quality of tackling,” DeLeone said. “That’s valuable when you’re drafting a corner on Day Two because those guys are the ones that I know that I can employ to play in the slot. You can’t take a slot corner that is going to be near the traffic that can’t come down and make a tackle, know how to slip a block. It doesn’t sound exciting for the average fan, but from an NFL personnel standpoint, those guys need to be able to tackle.”) (2-10-24): https://www.stltoday.com/sports/college/mizzou/why-two-mizzou-players-are-well-positioned-to-be-first-round-nfl-draft-picks/article_a1579580-c757-11ee-bcaa-3703aea510fa.html

Who is the Detroit Lions next Cornerback? (1. Ennis Rakestraw, Jr. (Missouri): The three-star, 6’0, 187-pound recruit out of the University of Missouri has been projected to possibly land in Detroit’s hands. Totaling 35 tackles, including 24 solo tackles, 11 assists, four defended passes, and one forced fumble in his 2023 season, Rackstraw would be a force to be reckoned with on Detroit’s defensive line. His scouting report detailed several positives of his way of playing. His smooth hip movements make it easy for him to turn and run; he possesses solid lateral movement, integral when mirroring receivers at the line of scrimmage. Rackstraw’s versatility allows him to adjust to both man and zone coverage and he is not afraid to tackle, primarily focusing on hitting the thigh pad to bring receivers down by the legs. Along with the many positives, the report does account for a few negatives. Being seven pounds below an NFL corner’s average weight, Rackstraw possesses a thinner frame. This has led him to lack some functional strength and face difficulty getting through bigger receivers at the point of catching and blockers in the open field. One massive problem within the Lions way of playing is their tendency to rack up several penalties, and drafting Rackshaw may only expand this problem. Rackshaw uses his hands downfield, grabbing, and holding, ultimately leading to many calls for pass interference. ) (2-9-24): https://www.yardbarker.com/nfl/articles/who_is_the_detroit_lions_next_cornerback/s1_17213_39941101

2024 NFL Draft Cornerback top 5 rankings 1.0 (3. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri: A physical and highly athletic corner, Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw checks all the boxes on what NFL teams want at the next level for a potential shutdown corner who can develop into an elite talent. Rakestraw brings immense physicality in both the run and passing game and is going to be a tone-setter at the next level. Look for Rakestraw to gain steam during the pre-draft process and land himself within the first round of the 2024 NFL Draft.) (2-8-24): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/lists/2024-nfl-draft-cornerback-top-5-rankings-1-0/

10 preliminary candidates to be the Lions top NFL draft pick at No. 29 overall (Ennis Rakestraw, CB, Missouri: Rakestraw is another prospect who probably doesn’t project into the first round right now in most mock drafts. However, his particular set of skills is one that I expect the Lions will find appealing enough to consider at 29. At 6 feet and 188 pounds, Rakestraw is an outside CB and a man-coverage specialist. He’s very competitive and confident, with good ball skills and a pretty high football IQ. He needs some work on tackling angles and knowing when to let go in coverage, but the tools are there to work with, both athletically and culturally for Detroit.) (2-8-24): https://lionswire.usatoday.com/lists/detroit-lions-draft-10-candidates-to-be-first-round-pick-scouting-profiles/

With Senior Bowl week kicking off, Max Chadwick discusses the biggest NFL draft storylines (WHO ARE THE TOP PROSPECTS IN ATTENDANCE? There are eight prospects at the Senior Bowl who are currently ranked in the top 32 of our draft board. Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (No. 26) has earned an 85.8 PFF coverage grade over the past two seasons, a top-30 mark among Power Five corners. ) (1-30-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-5-biggest-storylines-ahead-of-the-senior-bowl

Top CBs at the 2024 Senior Bowl: Quinyon Mitchell, Ennis Rakestraw Jr. To Prove They Are First-Round Talents (2. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri: Another player in action at the 2024 Senior Bowl garnering legitimate first-round attention is Missouri’s Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Rakestraw was exceptional with the Tigers as a man coverage corner, erasing some of the top receivers in the country. He is built to play the boundary in the NFL, with a lanky frame and long arms. Rakestraw also shows the physical profile of a true lockdown corner. His explosive movements, instant change of direction, and flexible body control allow him to stick with routes. Meanwhile, his anticipation and awareness lock him into an even higher floor at the next level.) (1-29-24): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cornerbacks-senior-bowl-draft-2024/

Ennis Rakestraw to Miss Senior Bowl While Recovering from Surgery (1-28-24): https://www.si.com/college/missouri/football/ennis-rakestraw-to-miss-senior-bowl-while-recovering-from-surgery

Top CBs in the 2024 NFL Draft: Ranking Kool-Aid McKinstry, Kalen King, and Others (10. Ennis Rakestraw Jr., Missouri: Man coverage might unequivocally be the most enjoyable coverage to watch. It’s one CB and one WR on an island, ruthlessly fighting to maintain leverage and positioning through a four-second rep. There are many good man coverage CBs in this class — Caelen Carson, Josh Newton, and Max Melton among them — but Ennis Rakestraw Jr. takes the 10th spot. Rakestraw doesn’t have elite ball production, and some will ask if he’s an NFL-caliber playmaker right now. But ahead of the catch point, he’s one of the best CBs in the class, using fast feet, fluid hips, disciplined technique, and quick reaction speed to blanket WRs off the line.) (1-18-24): https://www.profootballnetwork.com/top-cbs-nfl-draft-2024/

2024 NFL Draft Position Rankings: Cornerbacks (5. CB ENNIS RAKESTRAW JR., MISSOURI - BIG BOARD RANK: 27. Rakestraw is an incredibly smart and savvy off-coverage cornerback who plays in a way that makes watching his film a joy. Before the plays are even snapped, you can see evidence of his football IQ with his pre-snap communication and adjustments to motion. He does most of his work in off-coverage (Cover 3, quarters and underneath zones) and does so beautifully, showing excellent spacing and ability to pass off routes with ease. He is not asked to play press or single coverage often, which makes me wonder about the true mirror/recovery speed, but his skill set of fluid hips, quick feet, good burst and excellent instincts give him starting-caliber traits.) (1-16-24): https://www.pff.com/news/draft-2024-nfl-draft-position-rankings-cornerbacks

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. Interview: How Senior Bowl Impacts His NFL Draft Stock (1-9-24): https://www.thedraftnetwork.com/2024/01/09/ennis-rakestraw-jr-senior-bowl-nfl-draft-interview

'Heart of a giant': How Rakestraw overcame adversity to become a program-changer for Mizzou (12-29-23): https://www.columbiamissourian.com/sports/tiger_kickoff/heart-of-a-giant-how-rakestraw-overcame-adversity-to-become-a-program-changer-for-mizzou/article_d72a9862-9b27-11ee-bbb5-d7795091ad65.html

Mizzou CB Rakestraw to miss Kentucky game; Schrader, Miller questionable (After missing a game earlier this season due to a then-undisclosed injury, Missouri cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. will be sidelined for Saturday’s game at No. 24 Kentucky, Tigers coach Eli Drinkwitz said Tuesday. Drinkwitz said the junior cornerback has been dealing with a groin strain dating to Mizzou’s Week 4 win over Memphis in which Rakestraw was sidelined. “It’s a unique situation; it’s flared back up actually on the other side,” Drinkwitz said. “(Rakestraw) will be out this week. We need to try and keep him healthy so that we’re not constantly going on this back and forth. It’s not fair to him as a player.” Rakestraw missed most of the fourth quarter in Saturday’s 49-39 loss to LSU. Drinkwitz said his team will miss a player as talented as Rakestraw but that he has faith in Drey Norwood and Marcus Clarke, who each saw time in Rakestraw’s absence against Memphis. “You don’t lose a player like Ennis Rakestraw and not miss him, especially going on the road,” Drinkwitz said. “We have full confidence in the guys behind him.") (10-10-23): https://www.columbiamissourian.com/sports/mizzou_football/mizzou-cb-rakestraw-to-miss-kentucky-game-schrader-miller-questionable/article_0768f4e2-679d-11ee-873d-435288566d0e.html

2024 NFL Draft Stock – Week 3 (Up - Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri: Team sources say Rakestraw has the talent to be a potential third-day pick in the 2024 NFL Draft. So far this year, he has two tackles. As a redshirt sophomore in 2022, he started all 13 games and totaled 36 tackles, 12 passes broken up and an interception. The 6-foot, 188-pound Rakestraw has NFL size with a skill set and upside. He could be a riser for the 2024 NFL Draft.) (9-20-23): https://walterfootball.com/draft2024stock_03.php

Missouri secondary loaded with future NFL Draft picks (Ennis Rakestraw Jr: A year removed from a torn ACL, Rakestraw recorded 3.5 tackles for loss, one interception, and 13 pass deflections last season. Rakestraw is a fluid athlete and easy change of direction ability. The Missouri cornerback is a long, physical cornerback who does a good job of getting physical at the catch point.) (8-31-23): https://draftwire.usatoday.com/2023/08/31/missouri-tigers-2024nfl-draftkris-draine-jaylon-carlies/

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Thursday, February 15, 2024

Lions Draft Pick #61 CB Ennis Rakestraw

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