3 Risers in Minicamp Can Aid Lions' Defense Thrive in 2023
The Detroit Lions' defense is on a mission to elevate its reputation.
With dismal statistical numbers in his first two years running the defense, Aaron Glenn now has more pieces in place to execute his defensive vision.
While Aidan Hutchinson, James Houston, Kerby Joseph, Cam Sutton and C.J. Gardner-Johnson will dominate headlines, these three players could also play an integral role this season.
Ifeatu Melifonwu
Now healthy, Detroit's 2021 third- round pick can become another physical defensive back who makes plays at safety or in dime packages.
"It's being healthy and being in a position to make plays," Melifonwu said on Day 2 of minicamp. "Whether it's safety or dime, wherever it's at, have a full grasp of the playbook like I do. Just compete everyday. Last year, I was injured for most of the season. I didn't get a chance to compete."
Melifonwu has been in position regularly, and has been observed breaking up numerous passes throughout OTAs and minicamp.
Charles Harris
Head coach Dan Campbell believes the Lions can win with players like Charles Harris, who embodies the mindset the coaching staff is clamoring for.
"Charles has picked up where he left off from before the injury. He’s just -- Charles’ a pro. His approach to practice, I mean, walkthroughs, everything, you watch it. He’s on the details. I just go back to, Charles is another of those guys. I’ll tell this story every year. Came in two years ago, gave him an opportunity, basically playing for minimum and earn the right, earn his right to be out there and he did that," Campbell said. "Worked his way right up the depth chart, and he’s playing for us. He’s productive. Works out on both sides.
"He has an injury, well he doesn’t miss a beat. He’s back at it, he’s working and to him, it’s like, ‘I’m at the bottom again. I’m on my way back up.’ That’s his approach," Campbell continued. "To last in this league and be a good player in this league and produce, you have to have that mindset, and he’s got it.”
Detroit Lions defensive lineman Charles Harris
© Junfu Han / USA TODAY NETWORK
Derrick Barnes
Campbell highlighted Detroit's young linebacker on Day 2 of minicamp.
"Barnes is having a good spring," Campbell said. "And, I just bring this up again, nobody is counting Barnes out. Nobody is counting Barnes out. And, he’s going to get his opportunity. There again, there’s a reason you’ve got competition in your room, but he’s having a good spring."
During the portion of practice open to the media, the third-year linebacker has been utilized on the first-team defense, alongside veteran Alex Anzalone.
