One of the most exciting parts of training camp is seeing which players have taken a step since last year. We often talk about Year 2 or Year 3 jumps, but actually seeing it out there on the field is extremely satisfying. That improvement is never guaranteed, but when it happens, it’s validation that the general manager made the right draft pick.
But improvement isn’t always just about the young talent. Sometimes, it’s a veteran finding a breakthrough. Sometimes, it’s a player who signed with the team
last year but needed a season to adjust to the scheme. Sometimes, it’s someone that has been completely overlooked and came into camp with little expectations.
So today’s Question of the Day is:
Which Lions player will be the most improved at 2026 training camp?
My answer: I’m going to put on my optimistic cap and say Ennis Rakestraw.
Admittedly, this is far less based on actual evidence and more based on actual hope. But it’s still important to remind people that during his rookie season, Rakestraw was set to start a game at nickel before an injury during warmups derailed those plans. At one point not too long ago, this team had very high hopes for the 2024 second-round pick.
Now, the opportunity is finally his. After losing all of 2025 to an injury, Rakestraw now has a relatively clear path to the starting lineup and all of the motivation to finally get his NFL career off the ground. While I currently have veteran Rock Ya-Sin slated as the starting cornerback opposite D.J. Reed, I do believe that Rakestraw could very well win that job by the end of camp.
Detroit has insisted on keeping Rakestraw on the outside, and with Terrion Arnold now out of the picture, everything is set up for Rakestraw to break out this training camp.
Which Lions player do you expect to see as the most improved player at training camp? Share your thoughts in the comment section.
