The Detroit Lions’ recent move to place safety Ifeatu Melifonwu back on injured reserve comes as no surprise.

Head coach Dan Campbell had already indicated that Melifonwu would be sidelined for an extended period due to a new injury.

Although Melifonwu had been gradually rejoining practice over the past two weeks, a finger injury was noted in last week’s injury reports, followed by the news of this setback.

Melifonwu has yet to play this season, having been placed on injured reserve earlier with an ankle injury sustained during the preseason.

This new injury extends his timeline on the sidelines, preventing him from even completing his 21-day practice window.

Campbell explained the situation Monday, stating, “He had something come up, and he’s not going to be ready for a while. It’s a different injury, so it resets the clock on him.”

While Campbell didn’t rule out a potential return this season, he acknowledged that the road ahead remains uncertain.

“Potentially, yeah,” he said, leaving the door open, but not offering optimism.

The circumstances surrounding Melifonwu’s injuries this year have been less than encouraging.

After a strong finish to last season, where he was a key contributor in the Lions’ NFC Championship run, the 2023 campaign has been far more challenging for the safety.

Melifonwu is in the final year of his rookie contract, and the ongoing injury struggles are a significant setback after his positive role last year, particularly in blitzing and making timely interceptions.

Despite his absence, the Lions’ secondary has been strong, anchored by two standout safeties.

Brian Branch has continued to build on his impressive rookie season and has emerged as an all-around playmaker in 2024. Meanwhile, Kerby Joseph is having a breakout season, leading the league with seven interceptions through just 10 games in his third year.

Pro Football Focus has ranked Joseph first and Branch second among safeties who have played at least 20% of their team’s snaps.

The duo is a formidable combination, with Branch excelling in versatility and physicality, while Joseph’s ball-hawking ability has been a key asset.

Defensive coordinator Aaron Glenn praised the two safeties, stating that although they have been excellent, they still have room to grow.

“They’re doing a hell of a job for us, but they’re not even close to where they’re going to be,” Glenn said.

“As they get older, they’ll continue to improve their understanding of the game and the technical aspects we’re working on with them.”