By Mummy Grace 
The Detroit Lions already boast one of the NFL’s most stacked offenses, with Jared Goff leading the way at quarterback, Jahmyr Gibbs and David Montgomery forming a dominant backfield, and Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams set to light up defenses. But one veteran’s spot on the roster could be in serious jeopardy if a promising rookie impresses during training camp.
Kalif Raymond has been reliable for the Lions, starting two games at wide receiver last season and excelling as the team’s primary punt returner. He finished among the league’s best with 413 return yards and a solid 13.8-yard average, even scoring a punt return touchdown. But his receiving stats were modest—just 17 catches for 215 yards and two scores in 12 games.
The problem for Raymond? Money and opportunity. He’s set to count nearly $7 million against the cap this season, but only $1.83 million is guaranteed. Releasing or trading him would save the Lions over $5 million—cash they could use to shore up their offensive line following center Frank Ragnow’s retirement.
On top of that, the Lions made a big investment in rookie wide receiver Isaac TeSlaa, trading two future third-round picks to move up in the draft and grab him at No. 70 overall. If TeSlaa shows he can handle punt return duties and contributes on offense during camp, Raymond’s roster spot could be in serious danger.
If the Lions decide to move on from Raymond, they could look to trade him for a 2026 third-round pick or for a depth piece along the offensive line—both options that could benefit Detroit’s roster ahead of another Super Bowl push.
With Lions GM Brad Holmes known for being aggressive and creative, don’t be surprised if he pulls the trigger on a move to make the team even stronger heading into the season.