The Detroit Lions designated rookie cornerback Ennis Rakestraw for return on Thursday afternoon, as noted on the NFL’s official transaction wire.
Rakestraw, a promising rookie defensive back, was placed on injured reserve in Week 12 due to a hamstring injury.
In a recent update on injured players, head coach Dan Campbell mentioned that Rakestraw was nearing a return to action.
The Lions’ roster will have the next three days off following a light workout on Thursday.
When they reconvene, the former second-round pick is expected to practice with the team ahead of their divisional round playoff game.
Rakestraw’s rookie season has been marked by ups and downs, as he has contributed on special teams while striving to climb the depth chart.
For most of the season, rookie Terrion Arnold and veteran Carlton Davis have played the majority of snaps at cornerback.
With Davis sidelined due to a fractured jaw, Amik Robertson and Kindle Vildor have stepped in to help fill the gap.
The return of Ifeatu Melifonwu has also been a boost for the Lions. The versatile 25-year-old’s ability to play multiple roles in the secondary provides defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn with valuable flexibility in game planning.
In his three games since returning, Melifonwu has tallied eight solo tackles and a sack. He became a key defensive asset late last season and could play a pivotal role in the postseason due to his versatility.
According to the team’s website: “Over the last three games, Melifonwu has played 53 snaps at free safety, 48 snaps as a box safety, 30 as a slot corner, and four snaps out wide at cornerback. He’s recorded 10 tackles, one tackle for loss, and a sack over those three contests.”
