The Detroit Lions are moving on from defensive back Ifeatu Melifonwu. According to ESPN, Melifonwu has agreed to a one-year, $4 million contract with the Miami Dolphins.
With a contract that was so low in relative size, it’s clear the Lions were ready to move on from Melifonwu after an injury-plagued career in Detroit.
The Lions drafted Melifonwu in the third round of the 2021 NFL Draft. Initially drafted as a cornerback, the Lions eventually shifted him back to safety. He had what looked to be a breakout moment in 2023, starting for the Lions in the final five games of the regular season and all three playoff games. In that eight-game span, Melifonwu produced 42 tackles, four tackles for loss, 5.0 sacks, eight passes defended, and two interceptions.
Unfortunately, injuries derailed any chance at keeping that momentum going into 2024. Melifonwu played in just three games last season after two separate stints on injured reserve. Combined with some of the injury problems in his first two years—he played just 17 games in his first two seasons combined—the Lions are likely looking for more dependability. Now, Melifonwu gets a prove-it deal in the AFC East.
The Lions are in an okay spot at safety right now. They have their two established starters in Kerby Joseph and Brian Branch, plus a crew of young safeties capable of playing special teams: Morice Norris, Loren Strickland, and Erick Hallett. Still, Detroit could use an established veteran with starting experience to add depth.
Check in on all of the Lions’ free agency moves with our Detroit Lions 2025 offseason tracker.
