From NBC Sports · · 1m
Bucs Elevate Safety Ifeatu Melifonwu
Bucs add safety Ifeatu Melifonwu to active roster after practice squad promotion.
In brief
Bucs add safety Ifeatu Melifonwu to active roster after practice squad promotion. Bucs promoted safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from practice squad to bolster special teams and provide depth at safety for the 2026 season. Originally reported by NBC Sports.
Bucs promote safety
The Buccaneers elevated safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from the practice squad on Saturday, the team announced.
Final elevation for Melifonwu
It is the final elevation for Melifonwu, as he played in the first two games.
Roster impact
The Bucs will have to add Melifonwu to the 53-player roster for him to play again this season.
Special teams role
Melifonwu’s elevation gives the Buccaneers help on special teams and insurance at safety.
Current roster status
Starters Antoine Winfield Jr. and Tykee Smith and backup Miles Killebrew are the only safeties on the 53-player roster, with rookie defensive back Keionte Scott playing in the slot.
Special teams experience
Melifonwu has logged 32 snaps on special teams.
The main idea
Bucs promoted safety Ifeatu Melifonwu from practice squad to bolster special teams and provide depth at safety for the 2026 season.
