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Ifeatu Melifonwu

All articles tagged with #ifeatu melifonwu

sports2 years ago

"Return of C.J. Gardner-Johnson creates safety logjam for Detroit Lions"

The return of C.J. Gardner-Johnson from injury has created a logjam at the safety position for the Detroit Lions. Ifeatu Melifonwu, who has been plagued by injuries in the past, has played well in recent weeks and earned a spot in the playing rotation. The defensive coordinator, Aaron Glenn, emphasized that the best player will get the playing time, leaving Melifonwu's immediate future uncertain. Gardner-Johnson, a key offseason acquisition, had a strong start to the season before his injury. The Lions hope to find packages for all three safeties to contribute once everyone is healthy.

sports2 years ago

Lions' Safety Dilemma: Best Player Takes the Field

The Detroit Lions are facing a lineup decision at safety, with Ifeatu Melifonwu impressing in his recent starts but the pending return of C.J. Gardner-Johnson complicating matters. Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn stated that the "best guy plays" and emphasized the importance of practice performance. While the starting job may be at risk for Melifonwu, there will still be opportunities for both players to contribute in specific defensive packages.

sports2 years ago

Lions Roar Towards Playoffs with Dominant Win over Broncos

The Detroit Lions are in a great position in the playoff race after a dominant win over the Denver Broncos and a loss by the Minnesota Vikings. They have a three-game lead over the Vikings with three games left to play. The Lions could clinch a playoff spot if certain scenarios play out on Sunday, but the most likely scenario has them needing a Seattle Seahawks loss on Monday night. Wide receiver Jameson Williams had a breakout game with four catches, while safety Ifeatu Melifonwu impressed with his performance.

sports2 years ago

Lions' Ifeatu Melifonwu aims to overcome frustrating start and learn from Calvin Johnson's camp.

Detroit Lions safety Ifeatu Melifonwu is working hard to overcome a frustrating start to his career, which has been plagued by injuries and position changes. Melifonwu has been getting first-team reps during minicamp and is showing growth, according to head coach Dan Campbell. The third-round pick in 2021 has struggled with keeping plays in front of him but aligning as the deeper safety appears to be working. The ability to get reps and work through growing pains is a positive sign for Melifonwu's future with the Lions.

sports2 years ago

Detroit Lions' Melifonwu and 4 others named most improved in minicamp/OTAs.

Ifeatu Melifonwu, the third-year defensive back out of Syracuse, has been impressing Detroit Lions coach Campbell with his improved positioning, timing, and playmaking skills during the offseason program. Melifonwu has been getting plenty of reps with the first-team defense due to Tracy Walker's injury, and his durability has improved, which has been key to his development. He has been getting some reps at cornerback again to potentially back up multiple spots as he prepares to fight for a roster spot in camp. Lions safety Kerby Joseph, who capitalized on Walker's and Melifonwu's injuries last season, sees a player who is just scratching the surface with his potential.

sports2 years ago

Detroit Lions' Position Changes and Practice Considerations for a Strong Start.

Ifeatu Melifonwu, a former third-round pick of the Detroit Lions, has had a challenging start to his NFL career due to injuries and a position swap from cornerback to safety. However, he is feeling more comfortable in his new position and is looking forward to competing in training camp. With the Lions reloading in the secondary, Melifonwu will need to stay healthy and compete for snaps to stick around.

sports2 years ago

Mixed Results at Detroit Lions OTA Week 2: Offense Struggles, Kickers Shine

The Detroit Lions had their fifth of 10 Organized Team Activity practices, with Parker Romo taking the early lead in the kicker battle and the offense struggling. Ifeatu Melifonwu had a notable day, getting some safety work with the first-team defense and taking some reps at outside cornerback. The Lions' defense found creative ways to generate pressure, and Kerby Joseph picked off Jared Goff during 7-on-7 drills.