Add punt return to Lions' needs list with Kalif Raymond reportedly joining the rival Bears
Allen Park — The final veteran from general manager Brad Holmes’ first free agency class is leaving the franchise.
A day after linebacker Alex Anzalone agreed to terms with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, receiver and return man Kalif Raymond is set to jump to NFC North rival Chicago, according to the NFL Network.
Anzalone and Raymond were the final two players to sign with the Lions in 2021, shortly after Holmes was named general manager. Like Anzalone, Raymond initially signed a one-year deal.
The little-known receiver out of Holy Cross quickly established himself as a cultural leader through his tireless work ethic, earning two contract extensions during his time with the team. In his first year with the Lions, Raymond blew out his previous career-bests, catching 48 balls for 576 yards and four touchdowns. He followed that up with similar production the following season, hauling in 47 receptions for 616 yards.
However, Raymond’s offensive role reduced as the team improved its overall depth. Across the past three seasons, he’s averaged just 25 catches for 331 yards.
Where Raymond continued to thrive was as a return man, particularly his handling of punts, where he was named an All-Pro twice, in 2022 and 2024. But even that production declined last season. His 7.5-yard average in 2025 was his worst in seven years.
With Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams and Isaac TeSlaa — a third-round pick a year ago — in line to command most of the receiving targets going forward, Raymond became expendable.
In Chicago, Raymond will reconnect with former offensive coordinator Ben Johnson. Raymond will add veteran depth to a young receiving group after the Bears traded DJ Moore and lost Olamide Zaccheaus in free agency.
Raymond will also presumably handle punts and kickoffs for the Bears. Devin Duvernay, who served in those roles last year, is a free agent.
Detroit will obviously be on the hunt for a new return man. The team could bring back Tom Kennedy, who performed well as an injury replacement last season. Last year’s seventh-round draft pick, Dominic Lovett, should also be in the mix.
I’m a big fan of TK and hope he gets his shot this year.
His role had progressively dwindled to the point he seemed entirely replaceable to me by year-end. We certainly won't forget his many contributions both on and off the field as part of this franchise's turnaround, but things ran their natural course. Ever onward!