The Detroit Lions are built to win now, but not every young player’s future is secure. For Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr., the 2026 season may determine whether they’re part of Detroit’s long-term plans or fighting for a roster spot.
The Detroit Lions have built one of the deepest and most talented rosters in the NFL, but not every player’s future role is secure. As the team continues to push toward a Super Bowl window, some younger players are entering critical seasons that could determine their long-term future in Detroit.
Two players in particular — Terrion Arnold and Ennis Rakestraw Jr. — enter the 2026 season facing what could be considered make-or-break years early in their careers.
Arnold, the No. 24 overall pick in the 2024 NFL Draft, showed flashes of potential last season but struggled with injuries and consistency. The cornerback missed nine games last season after suffering a concussion and later a shoulder injury that required season-ending surgery.
Before the injury, Arnold had an up-and-down two year campaign. He showed physicality and confidence in coverage but also struggled at times, particularly with penalties. Arnold drew multiple holding and pass interference penalties during the season, which extended drives and put the defense in difficult situations. Still, the second year corner did show growth as the season progressed.
One of the highlights of Arnold’s season came when he recorded the first interception of his career. The play was seen as a turning point for his confidence, and coaches believed he was beginning to settle into the speed of the NFL before his injury cut his season short.
Off the field, Arnold has also dealt with allegations that he was involved in a kidnapping and robbery incident. His attorney has publicly stated there is no credible evidence that would lead to an indictment. The situation is still something to monitor, but as of now, there has been no formal charge announced.
Heading into the 2026 season, Arnold will need to stay healthy and show he can be a reliable starting cornerback. The Lions have invested heavily in their secondary, and competition for playing time will be strong. If Arnold can clean up penalties and continue improving in coverage, he still has the talent to become a long-term starter in Detroit.
The other player entering a critical season is Ennis Rakestraw Jr., the Lions’ second-round pick in the 2024 draft. Similar to Arnold, Rakestraw has dealt with his own injuries and did not see the field last season after missing the entire year due to a shoulder injury.
Because he missed his entire second season, and a the majority of his rookie year, 2026 will essentially serve as Rakestraw’s rookie year in terms of development and evaluation. However, as a second-round pick, expectations will still be high for him to contribute quickly, especially on special teams and in defensive packages.
Rakestraw was known coming out of college as a physical, aggressive corner who excels in press coverage and run support. The Lions drafted him with the expectation that he could fit their defensive identity — tough, physical and aggressive at the line of scrimmage.
But missing an entire season can slow development, and now Rakestraw will have to prove he can stay healthy and translate his college success to the NFL level. With the Lions continuing to add depth in the secondary, nothing will be handed to him.
For both Arnold and Rakestraw, the 2026 season will be extremely important. Arnold needs to prove he can stay on the field and develop into a consistent starter, while Rakestraw needs to prove he can contribute after appearing in 8 games over two seasons due to injury.
If both players develop the way the Lions hope, Detroit’s secondary could become a major strength. But if they struggle or can’t stay healthy, the Lions may be forced to look elsewhere in the future.
That makes 2026 a very important season for both young defensive backs.