The Detroit Lions recently shared updates on two players currently on injured reserve, offering contrasting outlooks for their potential return to the field. Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu and defensive end John Cominsky have faced extended absences due to injuries, but their paths to recovery appear markedly different.
Head coach Dan Campbell provided insight into their situations during a press conference. Melifonwu, who has missed the entire season due to groin and finger injuries, began his 21-day practice window on Wednesday. This development means he is now eligible to come off injured reserve and could return to the active roster soon.
On the other hand, the prognosis for John Cominsky is far less optimistic. Cominsky suffered an MCL tear during training camp in July, and while there was initial hope he could return late in the season, Campbell suggested this is now unlikely.
“I think it’s unlikely,” Campbell admitted when discussing Cominsky’s recovery. “He’s been putting in the effort—rehabbing, working hard, doing everything in his power to get back—but he’s struggling to overcome that final hurdle. Everybody’s doing their best, but it’s just not coming together.”
Cominsky has been a significant contributor to the Lions since joining the team via waivers in 2022. In his first season with Detroit, he played in 14 games, recording 4.0 sacks, 12 quarterback hits, and three passes defended. Last season, he started in 11 games, contributing 2.0 sacks, 36 tackles, and eight quarterback hits. His versatility and ability to provide depth on the defensive line have been crucial.
Cominsky’s absence comes at a challenging time for the Lions as they make a push for the playoffs. The defensive line has already been hit hard by injuries, with key players like Aidan Hutchinson, Marcus Davenport, and Derrick Barnes also sidelined. While Hutchinson has a slim chance of returning for a potential Super Bowl appearance, the overall situation leaves the Lions shorthanded in the trenches.
Meanwhile, Melifonwu’s potential return offers a glimmer of hope for Detroit, especially after losing cornerback Carlton Davis to a broken jaw sustained during Sunday’s game. Davis is out indefinitely, and while Melifonwu is not expected to step into Davis’s role as an outside cornerback, his versatility could prove valuable. The Lions could deploy him in various positions, including nickel corner, safety, or even linebacker.
Still, Melifonwu faces hurdles of his own. Having missed significant time this season, his readiness to contribute remains uncertain. Campbell acknowledged that the team is still evaluating Melifonwu’s condition and whether he could play as early as this Sunday’s matchup against the Chicago Bears.
“Could he help us on Sunday? I’m not sure yet,” Campbell said. “We’ll see how he looks out there during practice and go from there.”
The Lions’ defensive secondary has been in flux this season, and Melifonwu’s return could help stabilize the unit. While expectations should be tempered given his limited practice time, his ability to fill multiple roles makes him a valuable option as Detroit navigates a critical stretch of games.
In summary, the Lions find themselves grappling with a mix of optimism and setbacks as they approach the final phase of the season. While Melifonwu’s return seems within reach, Cominsky’s extended absence underscores the challenges the team faces in maintaining depth and consistency on the defensive side of the ball. With playoff hopes on the line, the Lions will need to rely on their remaining roster to step up and fill the gaps left by injured players.
