By Sunday 
Detroit Faces Tough Decisions as Offseason Moves Begin
The Detroit Lions are entering a pivotal offseason after a disappointing playoff exit against the Washington Commanders. With salary cap considerations in mind, the front office is assessing its roster, and some tough decisions are on the horizon. One of the biggest shocks could be the potential release of longtime fan-favorite Kalif Raymond, along with other key contributors.
Roster Cuts on the Horizon
As teams prepare for the 2025 season, difficult roster moves are being discussed across the league. Cutting players under contract can provide much-needed cap relief, allowing teams to allocate resources elsewhere. NFL analyst Ben Rolfe of Pro Football Network recently identified several Lions players who could be on the chopping block, including defensive lineman D.J. Reader, edge rusher Za’Darius Smith, linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin, and wide receiver Kalif Raymond.
Kalif Raymond: A Tough Cut for Fans?
Raymond has established himself as a reliable special teams player and depth receiver, endearing himself to Detroit’s fan base. However, financial considerations might lead the Lions to part ways with him. His 2025 cap hit stands at $6.4 million, and the team would save $3.3 million in cap space if he’s released before June 1, or $4.8 million if cut after that date.
While Raymond’s departure would be an emotional blow for fans, analysts suggest his production could be replaced at a lower cost. Ryan Love of USA Today’s Lions Wire acknowledged Raymond’s popularity but pointed out that Detroit could find a cheaper alternative without significantly affecting performance.
Za’Darius Smith’s Future in Question
Another surprising potential cut is Za’Darius Smith. Acquired in a trade that many fans celebrated, Smith was seen as a critical addition, especially when Aidan Hutchinson suffered an injury. However, despite his contributions, his impact may not have been game-changing enough to justify his $5.7 million cap hit.
Love noted that while Smith “performed well,” he wasn’t the kind of disruptive force Detroit needed, particularly in their playoff loss to Washington. With the Lions looking to reshape their defensive line, Smith’s tenure with the team could be short-lived.
Other Potential Departures
Alongside Raymond and Smith, defensive lineman D.J. Reader and linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin have also been named as potential cuts. Reeves-Maybin, a key depth player, provides insurance when injuries strike the linebacker corps. However, the Lions may feel his role can be filled with a more cost-effective option.
A Crucial Offseason for Detroit
The Lions are at a crossroads. After falling short in the playoffs, the team must decide whether to run it back with their current core or make difficult decisions to reshape the roster. While players like Raymond and Smith have made significant contributions, the front office may ultimately prioritize financial flexibility over sentimentality.
As the offseason unfolds, all eyes will be on Detroit’s front office to see how they navigate these crucial roster decisions.