Missouri DB Ennis Rakestraw Jr. 2024 NFL Draft Profile

Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri Height/Weight: 5-11, 183 Age: 21.10 Strengths Tenacity: Punches above his weight vs both the pass and run. Not afraid to mix it up Click and Close: Quick footed with the ability to collapse on a route and play through the WRSticky In Tight Quarters: Can mirror WRs movement patterns, particularly […]

Rob Gregson — NFL News Writer
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Oct 8, 2022; Gainesville, Florida, USA; Florida Gators running back Montrell Johnson Jr. (2) runs with the ball as Missouri Tigers defensive back Ennis Rakestraw Jr. (2) defends during the second half at Ben Hill Griffin Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports
Kim Klement-USA TODAY Sports

Ennis Rakestraw Jr., CB, Missouri

Height/Weight: 5-11, 183

Age: 21.10

Strengths

  • Tenacity: Punches above his weight vs both the pass and run. Not afraid to mix it up
  • Click and Close: Quick footed with the ability to collapse on a route and play through the WR
  • Sticky In Tight Quarters: Can mirror WRs movement patterns, particularly from the slot

Areas of Improvement-Concerns

  • Frame: Spindly with a lack of mass, even for a DB
  • Trust in Technique: Gets grabby at the top of the route, has trouble pedaling and was often a back to the sideline player
  • Athleticism: Not elite on the top end. May struggle in press man situations vs. NFL competition

Evaluation:

Projecting DBs to the next level can be a challenge based on what they’ve shown in college, vs what fits them best in the NFL. That is the case with Ennis Rakestraw Jr., who projects best as a nickel at the next level due to his smaller stature, but sticky coverage from the slot and feisty demeanor. Teams would be able to take advantage of him from the perimeter, but placing him closer to the ball should help ensure his functionality in the NFL.

James Foster’s Latest Big Board Ranking:

49th overall, 6th ranked CB

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