In 2022 as a junior Rakestraw Jr. played in 12 games and contributed on 664 snaps. He chalked up 30 tackles, 9 assists, and added 15 stops. In the secondary he forced 10 pass breakups, an interception, and gave up QB rating when targetted of 83.3.
In 2023 as a senior Rakestraw Jr. saw action in 9 games while playing 466 snaps. He logged 26 tackles, 7 assists, and made 10 stops. In coverage Rakestraw Jr. had 2 pass breakups, made no interceptions, and surrendered an unipressive QB rating when targetted of 96.9.
SCOUTING REPORT: STRENGTHS
Instinctual player with a keen understanding of the game, showcasing an ability to anticipate plays and react swiftly.
Exhibits superior man coverage skills, using a blend of physicality and technique to disrupt opposing receivers.
Remarkable twitch and agility allow for quick direction changes, staying on the hip of receivers throughout their routes.
His length is a significant advantage, enabling him to contest catches effectively and disrupt passing lanes.
Displays excellent football IQ, identifying offensive schemes and making smart plays in both zone and man coverage.
Despite a lighter frame, shows a willingness to engage physically, especially in run support and tackling where he is close to elite
SCOUTING REPORT: WEAKNESSES
Ran slower than expected at the combine with a 4.51 forty and a very poor broad jump. May not be the athlete we anticipated
Light frame could hinder effectiveness against more physically imposing receivers and in shedding blockers.
Zone coverage skills are underdeveloped. May be a liability if thrown into a complex zome scheme as a rookie
Limited ball production raises questions about his ability to convert pass deflections into interceptions.
SCOUTING REPORT: SUMMARY
Ennis Rakestraw Jr. has solidified himself as a premier man-coverage CB out of Missouri, showcasing elite press skills and a natural ability to shadow receivers downfield. His tape reveals a corner with fluid hips, quick feet, and an aggressive punch at the line, disrupting routes from the snap. While competent in zone, Rakestraw’s skill set is maximized in man schemes where his lock-down capability and instinctual play are on full display. His physical play extends beyond pass defense; Rakestraw is a willing and effective tackler in run support, demonstrating the ability to shed blocks and make plays in the backfield.
Rakestraw’s transition to the NFL is marked by a high ceiling, especially for teams employing press-man heavy schemes. His proficiency in man coverage, combined with surprising physicality against the run, ticks essential boxes for a starting-caliber cornerback in the league. Despite concerns typically associated with lighter frames, his college production against SEC competition speaks volumes about his ability to handle the physical demands at the next level.
NFL teams prioritizing versatility in their secondary will find Rakestraw’s skillset particularly compelling. His readiness to contribute in run defense adds another layer to his profile, making him a three-down cornerback capable of bolstering a defensive unit’s effectiveness against both the pass and run. As the NFL continues to evolve into a pass-heavy league, corners like Rakestraw, who can dominate in man coverage and hold their own in run support, become invaluable assets.
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