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The Honolulu Advertiser

Posted at 12:36 p.m., Friday, July 20, 2007

NFL: Lions expecting Alama-Francis to make impact

Advertiser Staff and News Services

The Detroit Lions will be looking for contributions from some of their rookies in 2007 and former University of Hawaii defensive end Ikaika Alama-Francis is one of them.

The Lions took five defensive players in this year's draft and the team's Web Site lists Alama-Francis as one of those that head coach Rod Marinelli and defensive coordinator Joe Barry are looking to make an impact.

As Detroit's first defensive pick in this year's draft, Alama-Francis was unknown by Lions' faithful when he arrived in Allen Park at the beginning of May. But if no one knew him before he arrived, they certainly knew him after as he brought his dynamic personality to Detroit.

The Web site's article said Alama-Francis was unable to fully compete in the Lions' offseason program, sitting out of team drills due to a pectoral injury suffered in January. But he was present at every practice session, working out on the sideline if he was unable to participate.

At 6-5 and 280 pounds, Alama-Francis possesses the speed and agility of a pass-rushing defensive end, but could also move inside to the tackle position if needed. He will certainly be under a microscope as he begins training camp and can fully participate for the first time.

"He was there every day; he was in all the meetings; he was able to go through individual with Joe (Cullen) and Coach Marinelli so I feel good with where we're at," said Barry. "I'm excited to get Ikaika into camp."