The New England Patriots have signed defensive back Obi Melifonwu, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Melifonwu was a second-round pick by the Oakland Raiders in 2017.

Former Raiders’ second-round pick Obi Melifonwu, whom Oakland released Oct. 23, is signing with the New England Patriots, per @seanstellato. — Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) November 5, 2018

Former #Raiders second round pick S Obi Melifonwu has agreed to terms with the #Patriots, per his agent. — Ian Rapoport (@RapSheet) November 5, 2018

In his rookie season, Melifonwu played in five games, including one start, and made seven tackles. He dealt with a sequence of injuries that nagged into the 2018 season, and the Raiders waived him during training camp.

He was highly regarded by scouts coming out of the draft because of his elite athleticism. Here’s what NFL.com wrote about him:

Big and athletic, he may lack the coverage qualities and instincts needed to work as a “last line of defense” player in a pass-happy division. Melifonwu is an effective downhill tackler who has the ability to match up against tight ends and make a living near the line of scrimmage. His football instincts aren’t up to par, but the size and traits will be extremely enticing for teams who covet traits first.

Melifonwu has played mostly safety during his career. If that continues, he will join a group that includes Devin McCourty, Patrick Chung, Duron Harmon and Nate Ebner.