Ifeatu Melifonwu will not play in the Detroit Lions’ Week 3 game against the Arizona Cardinals due to an ongoing ankle injury. This injury has severely limited his participation in practices since the second preseason game, which took place over a month ago.
Aside from being a limited participant in a practice session before Week 1, Melifonwu has been largely absent from media-accessible practices, marking a frustrating period for a player who had shown promise by stepping up in a larger role towards the end of the 2023 season.
Lions head coach Dan Campbell was questioned about the possibility of placing Melifonwu on injured reserve. Melifonwu has a history of injuries during his tenure with the Lions, having missed 20 games over four seasons due to various health issues. As a third-round pick in 2021, this injury history raises concerns about his long-term availability.
With the Lions facing a bye week after their matchup against the Seattle Seahawks in Week 4, this break could provide Melifonwu with essential recovery time.
If he can heal sufficiently during this period, he may be able to return as the team’s third safety, backing up starters Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph. This potential return is crucial not only for Melifonwu’s career but also for the Lions’ defensive strategy moving forward.
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