The Detroit Lions are making waves with their bold draft decisions, particularly at the cornerback position. After selecting Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw in the 2024 NFL Draft, the focus is now on how these rookies will perform in their second year. Arnold showed promise with increased playing time and development, while Rakestraw's limited snap counts last season leave many questions unanswered. As the Lions look to bolster their defense, the potential of these young cornerbacks could play a pivotal role in the team's aspirations for the upcoming season.

The Detroit Lions are heading into the 2025 training camp with several players facing critical evaluations. Key among them is Graham Glasgow, who must prove he can reclaim a starting position after a lackluster performance last season. Hendon Hooker, entering his third year, needs to showcase growth as he competes for a backup role against veterans like Teddy Bridgewater and Kyle Allen. Defensive tackle Brodric Martin is under pressure to justify his draft status after minimal impact in the previous years.

Others like Trevor Nowaske and Josh Paschal are in similar situations, needing to demonstrate their capability to secure a roster spot. Meanwhile, young talents such as Ennis Rakestraw and Colby Sorsdal must also rise to the occasion to establish their value amidst stiff competition. The success of these players not only impacts their careers but could also shape the Lions' prospects for the upcoming season.

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. is expected to step into a more defined role as an outside cornerback for the Detroit Lions in the upcoming 2025 season. After a year of limited action in 2024, hindered by injuries and a lack of clarity in his role, Rakestraw's development is now a focal point for head coach Dan Campbell. With changes to his positioning, Rakestraw will have the opportunity to showcase his skills on the outside, which aligns with the Lions' strategic adjustments.

Coach Campbell has indicated that limiting Rakestraw's responsibilities to the outside will help him focus and excel as he enters his second year. This targeted approach is expected to benefit both Rakestraw and the Lions' defensive scheme, unlocking his potential and contributing to a more formidable secondary in 2025.

Ennis Rakestraw, the Detroit Lions' second-round pick in 2024, faced a challenging rookie season marred by injuries that limited his playtime to just 46 snaps. Initially drafted as a cornerback from Missouri, he was versatile enough to play both slot and outside positions, but core muscle surgery and subsequent ankle and hamstring issues sidelined him. Despite these setbacks, Rakestraw showed glimpses of his potential with solid jam techniques and run defense during mop-up duties in games against Dallas and Tennessee.

As he heads into the 2025 season, Rakestraw finds himself in a crowded depth chart behind top draft pick Terrion Arnold and veteran D.J. Reed. With established corners like Rock Ya-Sin and Khalil Dorsey on the roster, Rakestraw’s primary contributions may come on special teams. He logged nearly 100 snaps in this capacity last season, and competition for a defensive role will be steep unless injuries strike the starting lineup again, making health a top priority for him moving forward.

The Detroit Lions are undergoing a shift in jersey numbers ahead of the 2025 season. Notable changes include running back Jahmyr Gibbs switching from number 26 to 0, while wide receiver Jameson Williams trades in his number 9 for 1. Gibbs, who tied for the NFL lead with 16 rushing touchdowns in 2024, is aiming for a fresh start with his new number. Meanwhile, Williams had a standout season, leading the Lions with 17.3 yards per reception among receivers with at least ten catches.

Other Lions making number changes include cornerbacks Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr., who will wear numbers 6 and 9, respectively. The move follows the departure of Maurice Alexander to the Chicago Bears, creating opportunities for these promising players. Fans should be aware that their Gibbs No. 26 jerseys may soon be outdated, signaling a new era for the Lions as they prepare for the upcoming season.