Detroit Lions Expected to Part Ways with ‘Fan Favorite’ This Offseason

Lions Expected to Cut Ties with ‘Fan Favorite’ Kalif Raymond

 

After a tough playoff loss to the Washington Commanders, the Detroit Lions’ offseason has officially begun, and tough roster decisions are ahead. One such decision could involve parting ways with wide receiver Kalif Raymond, a fan favorite known for his role as a kick returner.

 

Kalif Raymond’s 2025 cap hit is $6.4 million, and cutting him would save the Lions $3.3 million before June 1, or $4.8 million afterward. While Raymond has become a beloved figure in Detroit, there are questions about his overall productivity. USA Today’s Ryan Love notes that while Raymond’s presence is valued by fans, his performance could be replaced for a lower cost, making him a likely cut candidate to free up cap space.

 

The Lions are also considering other potential cuts, including defensive lineman D.J. Reader, linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and EDGE Za’Darius Smith. While Smith played an important role in the Lions’ defense, especially during Aidan Hutchinson’s injury, his $5.7 million cap hit for 2025 may lead the team to part ways with him. Although Smith’s performances were solid, he didn’t consistently deliver as a game-changer.

 

As the Lions aim to improve their roster and manage their salary cap, these difficult decisions will have significant implications for their future plans.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

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