Home Sport live NFL Lions bring safety Ifeatu Melifonwu off the injured reserve list.

Lions bring safety Ifeatu Melifonwu off the injured reserve list.

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ALLEN PARK, Mich. — On Saturday, the Detroit Lions announced the activation of safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from injured reserve, moving him closer to a possible appearance in the season’s remaining games.

Melifonwu’s status for Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears was in doubt due to a hand injury, as he was labeled as questionable.

In addition to Melifonwu, the Lions also had safety Brian Branch, who is dealing with a calf issue, and guard Graham Glasgow, sporting a knee complaint, listed as questionable for the upcoming game.

However, center Frank Ragnow, who is managing a back injury, and linebacker Trevor Nowaske, recovering from a concussion, did not appear on the injury report and are expected to be available for play.

To bolster the team, the Lions promoted running back Jermar Jefferson and safety Loren Strickland from the practice squad to the active lineup. With David Montgomery sidelined indefinitely due to a knee injury, Jefferson’s promotion provides necessary depth. He has not seen action in an NFL game since his rookie season in 2021 with the Lions.

Furthermore, the team added linebacker Mitchell Agude and defensive lineman Chris Smith to the active roster from the practice squad to enhance depth on a defense that has faced challenges due to injuries. Also, wide receiver Tom Kennedy was signed from the practice squad, providing an option for the special teams unit.

In order to accommodate these additions on the roster, the Lions parted ways with safety Brandon Joseph and wide receiver Maurice Alexander. Additionally, defensive lineman David Bada was waived with an injury settlement as part of the roster adjustments.