Following the Detroit Lions’ preseason finale on Saturday, head coach Dan Campbell provided updates Concornerback several injured players. He had encouraging news about right tackle Penei Sewell, running back Craig Reynolds, and defensive tackle Brodric Martin, who sustained a knee injury in the game against the Steelers.
However, Campbell’s comments regarding safety cornerback Ifeatu Melifonwu were less reassuring.
“We’re not sure. He’s been out for a bit. It’s nothing we think is long-term, but it’s taking longer than we expected. So, I’m not certain about his return or what the timeline might be.”
The specifics of cornerback Melifonwu’s injury remain unclear, as does when it occurred. He missed both practices last week and did not play in the preseason finale against the Steelers.
Campbell’s mixed statements—suggesting the injury isn’t long-term but also admitting uncertainty about Melifonwu’s return—are concerning.
Unfortunately, injuries have plagued Melifonwu throughout his NFL career, now heading into his fourth season. As a rookie, a thigh injury sidelined him for a significant period. In his second season, he dealt with multiple injuries while transitioning from cornerback to safety. Last season, a hand injury limited him to special teams until he became a starter in Week 14.
From Week 14 through the end of last season, Melifonwu performed exceptionally well. Pro Football Focus rated him as a top-10 safety in the league, and during those final eight games, including the playoffs, he recorded five sacks, 42 total tackles, four tackles for loss, two interceptions, seven pass breakups, and eight quarterback hits.
With Brian Branch moving to safety, questions have arisen about cornerback Melifonwu’s role this year. An injury that could place him on IR or the PUP list to start the season would have significant implications for how the Lions’ initial 53-man roster shapes up before Tuesday afternoon’s deadline.
https://sidelionreport.com/posts/dan-campbell-offers-vague-injury-outlook-for-lions-safety-ifeatu-melifonwu
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