The Detroit Lions have placed second-year cornerback Ennis Rakestraw on season-ending injured reserve due to a shoulder injury, following successful surgery.

Why it matters: Rakestraw's absence will be felt in the Lions' secondary as he was expected to play a pivotal role this season.

• His injury comes at a crucial time as the Lions look to solidify their defense and improve upon last year’s performance.
• With limited depth at cornerback, the team may need to adjust its defensive schemes to compensate for his loss.

What’s new: Rakestraw sustained his injury during practice, leading to an early exit that ultimately resulted in surgery.

• He previously faced challenges in his rookie season, participating in only eight games due to a hamstring issue.
• Drafted 61st overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, expectations were high for him to make significant contributions in his sophomore year.

Yes, but: While Rakestraw expressed optimism about returning, the timeline for recovery from shoulder surgery typically spans several months.

• Coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the injury and emphasized the importance of rehabilitation.
• The team is likely to rely more heavily on veteran players and younger cornerbacks to fill the gap left by Rakestraw.

What to watch: The Lions’ secondary depth chart will be closely scrutinized in the coming weeks as they adjust their lineup.

• Potential candidates to step into larger roles include undrafted free agents and lesser-known backups who will need to adapt quickly.
• The coaching staff may also consider adjustments to their defensive scheme, potentially leaning on more zone coverage to protect inexperienced players.

The bottom line: Losing Rakestraw is a setback for the Lions, but the organization remains committed to supporting his recovery while exploring solutions for immediate defensive needs.

• As Rakestraw stated, "I'll be back soon," indicating his determination to return stronger than before.
• The Lions will need to foster resilience within the roster and maintain focus as they navigate the challenges ahead without one of their key defensive prospects.

The Detroit Lions have placed second-year cornerback Ennis Rakestraw on season-ending injured reserve due to a shoulder injury, following successful surgery.

Why it matters: Rakestraw's absence will be felt in the Lions' secondary as he was expected to play a pivotal role this season.

• His injury comes at a crucial time as the Lions look to solidify their defense and improve upon last year’s performance.
• With limited depth at cornerback, the team may need to adjust its defensive schemes to compensate for his loss.

What’s new: Rakestraw sustained his injury during practice, leading to an early exit that ultimately resulted in surgery.

• He previously faced challenges in his rookie season, participating in only eight games due to a hamstring issue.
• Drafted 61st overall in the 2024 NFL Draft, expectations were high for him to make significant contributions in his sophomore year.

Yes, but: While Rakestraw expressed optimism about returning, the timeline for recovery from shoulder surgery typically spans several months.

• Coach Dan Campbell acknowledged the unfortunate nature of the injury and emphasized the importance of rehabilitation.
• The team is likely to rely more heavily on veteran players and younger cornerbacks to fill the gap left by Rakestraw.

What to watch: The Lions’ secondary depth chart will be closely scrutinized in the coming weeks as they adjust their lineup.

• Potential candidates to step into larger roles include undrafted free agents and lesser-known backups who will need to adapt quickly.
• The coaching staff may also consider adjustments to their defensive scheme, potentially leaning on more zone coverage to protect inexperienced players.

The bottom line: Losing Rakestraw is a setback for the Lions, but the organization remains committed to supporting his recovery while exploring solutions for immediate defensive needs.

• As Rakestraw stated, "I'll be back soon," indicating his determination to return stronger than before.
• The Lions will need to foster resilience within the roster and maintain focus as they navigate the challenges ahead without one of their key defensive prospects.