Ifeatu Melifonwu, a veteran safety, has been a part of the Detroit Lions throughout the Brad Holmes and Dan Campbell era. Drafted by Holmes in his first draft class, Melifonwu was the fourth player selected, following defensive lineman Alim McNeill and wide receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown, both picked in earlier rounds.
Initially brought in as a cornerback, Melifonwu transitioned to safety late in 2022. He has showcased his versatility in Detroit’s defense, when healthy. Over four seasons, he’s played more than 10 games in only one season due to injuries, totaling 37 regular season games with 14 starts.
Melifonwu’s skill set is undeniable. Standing at 6-foot-3 and weighing 210 pounds, he is capable of playing both safety positions, stepping into the box as a blitzer, and even playing in the slot as a cornerback. However, in the previous season, he was limited to just four games, including the playoffs, after two separate stints on injured reserve for ankle and finger injuries. With 22 players eligible for unrestricted free agency this March, Melifonwu is among them.
“I would like to be back,” Melifonwu said during the locker room clean-out. “I got drafted here, and being part of the first draft class, I’ve witnessed how much we’ve grown. I would love to continue being here.”
The Lions have both Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch returning at safety. Joseph, who led the league with nine interceptions and earned All-Pro honors, is a key piece in the secondary, while Branch is recognized as one of the best strong safeties in the game and is expected to become an All-Pro and Pro Bowler in the near future. Additionally, Amik Robertson is under contract for another season at nickel corner, and second-year cornerback Ennis Rakestraw Jr., the Lions’ second-round pick from the previous draft, may also be a factor in the secondary mix.
With tough decisions ahead, Holmes and Campbell must carefully evaluate how to allocate resources, taking into account Melifonwu’s role and the future structure of their secondary.
