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Lions consider signing safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from Buccaneers practice squad

Yahoo Sports • 1 min read • Latest: Sep 22, 2026, 10:37 PM

Last updated Sep 22, 2026

Lions consider signing safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from Buccaneers practice squad

Summary

The Detroit Lions are considering signing Ifeatu Melifonwu from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad as they navigate significant injuries in their secondary. Starting safeties Brian Branch and Kerby Joseph are unavailable, and cornerback Avonte Maddox is out for the season. Melifonwu has previous experience in Detroit and could provide immediate support, having played in both safety and cornerback roles. His familiarity with the team's system may help mitigate the impact of ongoing injuries as the Lions prepare for their upcoming game against the New York Jets.

Source Links

Yahoo Sports

By the Numbers

•Lions dealing with injuries in the secondary after two games this season.
•Melifonwu previously played in 37 games for Detroit over four seasons.
•He is currently on the Buccaneers' practice squad and has played in both of their games this season.
•Signing Melifonwu could provide immediate depth without high financial risk.
•The Lions are preparing for their next matchup against the Jets.

Latest Updates

10:37 PMYahoo Sports — Lions Urged to Re-Sign Former 3rd-Round Safety Once Drafted by Brad Holmes

What they're saying

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Lions are floated to poach a former third round safety from the Tampa Bay Buccaneers' practice squad, who once played in Detroit The post Lions Urged to Re-Sign Former 3rd-Round Safety Once Drafted by Brad Holmes appeared first on HEAVY.
— Yahoo Sports

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Detroit Lions Tampa Bay Buccaneers Minnesota Vikings NFL Football