Kalif Raymond has built a reputation as one of the Detroit Lions’ most dedicated and dependable players, primarily known for his hard work and versatility. Although his offensive snaps have gradually declined, he has remained a crucial asset on special teams, serving as the team’s main punt returner. Entering the 2024 season, the Lions faced a dilemma with a crowded wide receiver group, especially with the arrival of Jameson Williams, which limited Raymond’s chances for a significant offensive role. However, the team struggled during the offseason to identify a reliable third receiver to complement Williams and Amon-Ra St. Brown, which opened the possibility for Raymond to earn an outside starting spot as training camp concluded.

During the 2024 season, Raymond appeared in 12 games and started twice, playing 211 offensive snaps. His offensive statistics included 17 receptions for 215 yards and two touchdowns. In addition to his role on offense, Raymond returned 30 punts for 413 yards, including one punt return touchdown, and handled one kickoff return for 26 yards. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF) grades, he ranked 54th among 131 qualifying wide receivers in overall offensive grading with a score of 71.1, and 58th in receiving grade at 70.8. His punt return grade was especially notable, leading the league with an 87.8 rating among returners with at least 10 punt returns.

With the late-season addition and the emergence of Tim Patrick, Raymond settled into the Lions’ role as the fourth wide receiver for most of the year. Despite experiencing the lowest offensive production since joining Detroit, Raymond still averaged over 17 snaps per game, reflecting the team’s continued trust in both him and the depth spot for wide receivers. Yet, the rise of Williams slightly limited his target share to just 22 passes, about half his previous season’s second-lowest total.

Highlight Performances and Special Teams Success

Raymond’s true impact in 2024 manifested on special teams, where he posted career-best numbers as Detroit’s primary punt returner for the fourth consecutive season. His 413 punt return yards and 13.8 yards per return ranked first and third respectively across the <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/”>NFL last year. Although he narrowly missed an <a href="https://www.buzzineintl.com/category/football/nfl/nfc/”>NFC Pro Bowl selection—the honor went to Cowboys kick returner KaVontae Turpin—Raymond was recognized as a second-team All-Pro for the second time in his career.

One of Raymond’s standout games came against the Tennessee Titans, where he not only scored a touchdown receiving the ball but also returned five punts for a remarkable 190 yards, including a punt return touchdown and nearly a second one. This performance made him the first Detroit Lions player to score both a receiving and punt return touchdown in a single game. For this feat, Raymond earned the NFC Special Teams Player of the Week award, underscoring his significant value to Detroit in that domain. Though he missed time late in the season due to injury, he was able to return before the year concluded, demonstrating resilience and commitment.

Prospects and Challenges Facing Raymond for the 2025 Season

Looking ahead to 2025, Kalif Raymond is entering the final season of a two-year contract extension signed in 2023. Turning 31 next year, questions naturally arise about the longevity of his tenure with the Lions. The situation is further complicated by the team’s focus on youth and developing new talent at the wide receiver position. Detroit is set to return its top three receivers from this season while also adding two new wide receivers in the 2025 NFL Draft.

General Manager Brad Holmes has publicly expressed a desire to rejuvenate the position group by getting younger, signaling opportunities for emerging players such as Isaac TeSlaa and rookie Dominic Lovett to become future contributors. Although this influx of youthful talent might put pressure on Raymond’s roster spot, it is unlikely to endanger his place immediately, as his role remains distinct due to his experience and special teams value.

In 2025, Raymond is expected to maintain a role similar to what he held last season: serving as an occasional offensive subpackage player and continuing as the primary punt returner. Beyond on-field responsibilities, he may take on an important mentoring position, particularly for new receivers like Lovett. While their playing styles do not perfectly align, there is sufficient overlap for Raymond to guide the rookie, especially as Lovett and other young receivers develop their skills. Holmes has hinted at some potential for Lovett to contribute in the return game, although he did not handle this role extensively in college.

If the Lions fail to identify a capable returner with the same impact as Raymond, it is plausible the team could offer him a new short-term deal. Known as one of the best football characters on the roster, Raymond’s work ethic and determination provide him with a strong foundation to meet ongoing challenges. Detroit has a history of retaining players who exhibit such qualities, so it would be unsurprising to see Raymond remain with the organization in some capacity.

“It was clear it was going to be hard for Raymond to find a significant offensive role.” —Brad Holmes, General Manager
“He will undoubtedly meet the new challenges he’s facing with determination and work ethic.” —Brad Holmes, General Manager
“It just missed out being named as the NFC Pro Bowl returner (it went to deserving Cowboys kick returner KaVontae Turpin).” —Special Teams Analyst
“Raymond is the first ever Detroit Lions player to score a receiving and punt return touchdown in a single game.” —Detroit Lions Official