Missouri football cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr. declares for the 2024 NFL Draft

When Ennis Rakestraw Jr. announced his commitment to Missouri football, it created a viral moment where first-year head coach Eli Drinkwitz went charging around the Missouri athletics halls.

On Saturday morning, Rakestraw announced the end of his Missouri football career on his own terms.

He announced he'll be entering the 2024 NFL Draft.

"Thank YOU COACH DRINK for recruiting me and believing I could compete right away. When I committed, a lot of people didn't see our vision," Rakesteaw wrote on social media announcing his declaration. "Glad by the end of my career, we turned into a reality, And to TIGER NATION I love y'all, supporting me through thick and thin."

One of Missouri's best defensive players, Rakestraw's career began against the eventual national champion Alabama. He had a baptism by fire as a freshman and tragedy as a sophomore when he tore his ACL during practice in 2021.

Rakestraw endured that and returned in 2022 to put forward a standout season in 2022 where he recorded 12 pass breakups.

He finished his career with 24 pass breakups, an interception and two forced fumbles.

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"Truly blessed to have been on the journey I've been on," Rakestraw wrote. "The journey doesn't stop here, but the next chapter is upon us, want to emphasize without MY FAMILY wouldn't be here- all the praise to them but MAMA thank you for the accountability and trust I'll be something in life. You are the reason for everything. Can't repay you for anything but I can be great and be the best son I can."

More: How Mizzou cornerback Ennis Rakestraw's relationship with his mom aided his 10-month torn ACL recovery

Rakestraw missed the Cotton Bowl with an injury, but that won't damper his NFL Draft stock.

So far, he's seen his profile rise from a late day-three pick to a day-two pick due to his technique and play style. With a solid combine and pro day, Rakestraw could improve that draft stock further.

"Thankful for all the COACHES AND STRENGTH STAFF I've worked relationships, and the LIFELONG FRIENDS the University of Missouri has provided me," Rakestraw wrote.

This article originally appeared on Columbia Daily Tribune: Missouri football's Ennis Rakestraw Jr. declares for the 2024 NFL Draft