Missouri football is entering a new era at cornerback after losing key players to the NFL Draft. Ennis Rakestraw Jr. and Kris Abrams-Draine are now playing for the Detroit Lions and Denver Broncos, respectively. The team is now tasked with finding their replacements, with Drey Norwood and Toriano Pride Jr. expected to step into starting roles.
Norwood has shown promise in filling in for Rakestraw, while Pride brings experience from Clemson. Marcus Clarke, Ja’Mariyon Wayne, and Nicholas DeLoach are also expected to contribute, along with newcomers Cameron Keys and Jaren Sensabaugh.
One concern for Missouri is the lack of high-level experience at the cornerback position, with many underclassmen in the mix. However, the team has a track record of developing talent under cornerbacks coach Al Pogue, with Rakestraw and Abrams-Draine excelling under his guidance.
Ja’Mariyon Wayne is seen as a breakout candidate for Missouri, with coaches praising his size, strength, athleticism, and competitive character. The team will be relying on its younger players to step up and prove themselves in the SEC.
Overall, Missouri’s cornerback room is in a period of transition, but with promising young talent and experienced transfers, the team is looking to build on its success from last season. The Tigers will kick off their season on August 29 against Murray State, with high hopes for their revamped defense.
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