Lions rookie Ennis Rakestraw Jr makes good on childhood promise to grade school teacher

Fox News Flash top sports headlines are here. Check out what's clicking on Foxnews.com.

Ennis Rakestraw Jr. was born in Texas and grew up just outside of Dallas. He then rose to stardom during his standout run as a defensive back for the Missouri Tigers.

Last month, the Detroit Lions selected him in the second round of the NFL Draft. When Rakestraw received the phone call from the Lions, not only did it turn his lifelong dream into a reality, it also meant that he would be able make good on a childhood promise.

When Rakestraw was in fourth grade, he wrote a letter to his teacher, Mr. Gammon, saying, "I hope you're alive because if I make it to a professional football player, I will talk about you."

CLICK HERE FOR MORE SPORTS COVERAGE ON FOXNEWS.COM

Missouri defensive back Ennis Rakestraw Jr. talks to the media during the NFL Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on Feb 29, 2024, in Indianapolis. (Trevor Ruszkowski-USA Today Sports)

"Dear Mr. Gammon

You are the best teacher ever. You always had and have my back and you give me confidence. When my little brother had a sejere (seizure) you gave me food and snacks. I wish I didn’t want to leave you but I have to but I hope you come and see me at Daniel please. Come see me I hope to you miss me like I miss you and I hope your alive because if I make it to a proffosinal football player. I will talk about you Mr. gammon. Please give me your phone number before I go.(sic)"

VIEW MOMENT ON X

Rakestraw's former elementary school teacher caught wind of Rakestraw's post and responded by expressing the great pride he has in the NFL rookie. Gammon also joked about how he "threw multiple touchdowns" against Rakestraw during recess.

RETIRED NFL PASS RUSHER JJ WATT OPEN TO RETURNING TO