Report: Detroit Lions may choose youth over experience as Rakestraw Jr. challenges Robertson
The Detroit Lions have plenty of choices at cornerback heading into the 2025 season, and that's brewing trade rumors. Terrion Arnold and new free agent signee D.J. Reed appear to be in as starters on the outside.
But between Amik Robertson, a veteran, and second-year man Ennis Rakestraw Jr., there may be a fight for one of those spots in the slot. Some consider the Lions to trade Robertson, but the team hasn't made any definitive indication they will do so.
Amik Robertson's contract year fans trade fire in league
Amik Robertson performed well for the Lions in 2024. He had a 61.4% completion rate and a 90.7 passer rating when thrown to solid figures for a slot cornerback. But now that he's in the final year of his deal, folks have begun speculating that he could get traded.
One of those is Panthers Wire's Anthony Rizzuti. He wrote the Carolina Panthers could be interested in Robertson as a nickel corner assist.
Robertson injured his arm during the playoffs last year but should be available for Week 1. Should he be healthy, he again could be Detroit's primary slot corner.
With Ennis Rakestraw Jr. entering his second season, however, the team may prefer to give the younger guy more responsibility.
That has only fueled trade speculation.
Nevertheless, the Lions haven't given any indication that they're willing to look past Robertson. He provides good depth to the team, and that's something Detroit appreciates after last season's plethora of injuries. Even if Rakestraw ultimately takes over, Robertson would remain a solid backup.
Also Read:
Hot Start Continues As Detroit Tigers Become First AL Team To Reach 20 Wins
Ennis Rakestraw Jr. still learning and Lions may not be ready to move on
Ennis Rakestraw Jr. was taken in the second round of the 2024 draft, and the Lions were going to utilize him in the slot.
Injuries, however, intervened, and he didn't see action there. Now, in the offseason practices, he's doing more on the outside, not the inside. That could indicate the plan to utilize him in the slot is kaput.
Even if Rakestraw moves back to the slot before the season begins, it still looks like the Lions want to keep Robertson. They like having strong backups, and Robertson brings experience. With the team's eyes on a deep playoff run, letting go of a proven corner may be too risky.
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