The Detroit Lions announced Friday they have signed third-round pick Ifeatu Melifonwu, and now have all seven picks from the 2021 draft class under contract.
The Lions thought about trading up for Melifonwu, a big, athletic cornerback from Syracuse who had three interceptions and 23 pass breakups in two seasons as a starter.
Listed at 6 feet 3 and 204 pounds, Melifonwu should compete for a backup role behind presumptive starters Jeff Okudah and Amani Oruwariye. Reserves include slot corner Corn Elder and Quinton Dunbar.
"There is no reason this young man shouldn’t be a superstar," ESPN analyst Louis Riddick said after the Lions selected Melifonwu at the end of the third round, No.