Injuries are plaguing a promising Detroit defense.
Former second-round pick Ennis Rakestraw Jr. has been placed on the team’s injured reserve list for 2025, with Detroit reporting that the 23-year-old underwent season-ending shoulder surgery.
The young talent faces more adversity, despite having missed 10 games in his rookie season.
Rakestraw contributed six tackles in eight appearances after being picked 61st overall in 2024.
The former Missouri DB was a shoo-in at nickel for the 2025 season, but now faces a long journey back to full fitness.
Detroit’s offseason has been all about extending its window as a contender. Unfortunately they have seen two key components in Levi Onwuzurike, and now Rakestraw, unfit to help their side retain the NFC North title.
Last season, the franchise fought tooth and nail with major blows to their defensive core.
It seems Dan Campbell must now work coaching wonders again to keep his side in the hunt for playoff football.
Who can fill the Rakestraw void?
Amik Robertson – The 26-year-old is the most likely player to step up and did so admirably last season. Robertson logged 50 total tackles, four tackles for loss and three forced fumbles. And with more starts under his belt, those numbers will likely improve.
Avonte Maddox – The former Philadelphia Eagles player was acquired through free agency. It is unlikely though that the Detroit native will beat out Robertson, a younger and more consistent player. Maddox at least should provide necessary depth.
Kendall Fuller – Detroit could dip back into free agency, with Fuller definitely in the running. The vet has experience both in the slot and on the boundary, but would need to split the workload. A cheap one-year deal could be made for the 32-year-old’s services as a stopgap option.
Is this the end of the road for Rakestraw?
Now, it is no surprise that missing 27 of your first 34 regular-season games is concerning. And Campbell will be more than aware of that.
However, it is far-fetched to think he will be put on the chopping block this early in what would have been his break out season.
The 2026 preseason will likely be the final straw to see if he can succeed in Honolulu blue.
