Ennis Rakestraw Jr. has been a stalwart for Missouri for years, since he started 10 games for the Tigers during the 2020 season. Now he’s headed to the NFL.

Rakestraw thanked his family, teammates and Mizzou fans for the support.

“When I committed, a lot of people didn’t see our vision,” he wrote on social media. “Glad by the end of my career, we turned my dream into a reality. And to TIGER NATION, I love y’all, supporting me through thick and thin. With that being said…”

Coach Eli Drinkwitz reposted Rakestraw’s comments and added, “Enjoyed our time together on our journey!! Gods speed in the next chapter!! Proud of you!! #WhyStopNow”

This past season, he appeared in 9 games and started 8 at cornerback and made 35 tackles, matching his single-season high, accompanied by 1.5 tackles for loss. He did not play against Ohio State or Arkansas to close the season.

Field Yates of ESPN is already impressed with Rakestraw as an NFL prospect: “If your team needs a tough, physical, fearless cornerback that is going to add an edge to your defense the moment he steps on the field, Missouri CB Ennis Rakestraw, Jr. is the player for you.

Huge, huge fan.”