Oakland Raiders: Obi Melifonwu’s return anticipated vs. Dolphins

The Oakland Raiders defense could be getting a big boost with Obi Melifonwu appearing to be ready to return against the Miami Dolphins.

Oakland Raiders safety Obi Melifonwu returned to practice with the team on Oct. 17—a good sign for an injury-riddled secondary. Melifonwu underwent knee surgery before the regular season. He only played in one exhibition game before his extended absence. Fortunately, the Raiders have designated him for return from injured reserve, per Las Vegas Review-Journal reporter Michael Gehlken.

The second-rounder can take the field in the next matchup against the Miami Dolphins, but it’s not a guarantee. Remember, Melifonwu also missed parts of the offseason program. He’s still relatively new to the professional game.

Nonetheless, head coach Jack Del Rio expressed confidence in the rookie defensive back’s ability to suit up on Sunday, per Raiders.com.

"“As long as the week goes as we anticipate it going, I think we’ll get him up this week.”"

According to Del Rio during Friday’s open media conference, via the team’s official website, the Connecticut product will have a major role on defense. The coaching staff won’t throw everything at him once he steps onto the field for regular-season play.

"“He’s shown that he needs some work. When a young guy, regardless of how talented they are, misses as much time as he has practicing, he’s going to be rusty. We’ve had a couple good weeks to work him in and get him some looks and prepare him. He’s physically ready to go, and mentally as far as game conditioning and stuff that will have to come. It’s good to see him running around. It’ll be good when we get him back and in the full.”"

Based on Del Rio’s comments, you can expect Melifonwu to take a reserve role for the foreseeable future.

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During the previous offseason, safety Karl Joseph recovered from a more significant knee injury (ACL) but took a decent amount of reps during the offseason program. After two games, he made his start as a rookie.

Melifonwu has an athletic build. He made a name for himself at the NFL Scouting Combine with spectacular numbers in the drill circuits. However, nothing replaces live reps. As the projected hybrid linebacker and the eventual starter at safety, he must absorb a lot while on the job.

The Raiders need healthy bodies right now, but the coaching staff will have to go through a slow process with the 23-year old rookie. Fortunately, linebacker Nicholas Morrow has played well as the weak-side linebacker in coverage. He’s yet to allow a touchdown when targeted in pass defense, per Pro Football Focus Elite.

Melifonwu should be able to see action in small bits as a safety in the nickel and dime packages until he’s ready to go full throttle later in the season.

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As the injuries on defense pile up, the pressure on the second-rounder to produce will skyrocket. The Raiders should view the second half of the season as a learning experience for Melifonwu. He’ll miss a few tackles and some passes may fly over his head, but it’s a practical buildup for a much-improved sophomore season.

Though the Raiders secondary looks subpar during the current year, cornerback Gareon Conley, Joseph and Melifonwu may form a solid trio for seasons to come.