Can Detroit Lions Finally Trust Ennis Rakestraw?

This would be a big development if Rakestraw can stay healthy and in the lineup. Durability has been the biggest detractor for his performance since entering the league, as Sunday marked the ninth regular season game he's appeared in since being drafted.

Prior to Sunday's game, the Lions had started veteran Rock Ya-Sin opposite of D.J. Reed. However, both players had been struggling through the first two games and the Lions elected to start Roger McCreary opposite of Reed for the matchup against the Jets.

Rakestraw, who was inactive the first two games, was kept active and wound up playing a significant role. This is a major development for his growth as a player, as the opportunity to simply suit up and log snaps is something he's been deprived of throughout his career.

Moving forward, the more action Rakestraw gets, the better it will be for Detroit's outlook. He's been strapped of his development from a game rep perspective up to this point, and as a result will benefit greatly from continuing to add snaps to his resume.

After delivering a solid performance, Rakestraw needs to string another one together to begin to develop trust with the coaching staff and his teammates. Staying healthy will be a big part of that.

Many are clamoring for the Lions to make a big trade at some point, with Steelers cornerback Joey Porter Jr. being a primary target in many reports and discussions. However, if Rakestraw were to emerge as a legitimate starting option, it would be massive for Detroit's hopes of succeeding and returning to the postseason in 2026.