The Detroit Lions have officially announced big news involving fan-favorite wide receiver Tom Kennedy, following a significant injury to return specialist Kalif Raymond.
Raymond’s absence created a major hole on special teams, but the Lions appear to have found a reliable replacement. Head coach Dan Campbell and special teams coordinator Dave Fipp confirmed that Tom Kennedy will remain the team’s primary kick returner for the remainder of the season, even once Raymond is healthy.
With Detroit entering a crucial stretch that could determine its 2025 NFL playoff fate, Kennedy’s emergence comes at a pivotal time.
Tom Kennedy Earns Permanent Kick Return Role
Kennedy, a longtime member of the Lions’ practice squad, was elevated to the active roster following Raymond’s injury. Since stepping into the role, he has delivered immediate results.
In his first game handling returns, Kennedy averaged 27.0 yards per kick return and added a 21-yard punt return. During Detroit’s win over the Dallas Cowboys, all three of his kick returns went beyond the Lions’ 40-yard line, giving the offense strong field position.
That performance was enough to earn him a permanent role.
Speaking to reporters, special teams coordinator Dave Fipp made it clear Kennedy will continue returning kicks moving forward.
“Kalif’s obviously an incredible player for us, so I would see him starting off as our punt returner and I would definitely see Tom Kennedy being part of the kick return game,” Fipp said, via Pride of Detroit. “Leaf back, I would see him returning punts for sure.”
Lions Coaching Staff Praises Kennedy’s Work Ethic
Fipp also praised Kennedy’s perseverance and dedication after spending most of his seven seasons in Detroit on the practice squad.
“I can’t tell you how ecstatic I am for Tom Kennedy,” Fipp said. “There’s nobody who deserves the attention and recognition more than him in this building. He’s worked his tail off every single day and never complained about his role or opportunities.”
Kennedy’s path has been anything but easy. Last season, he appeared in just four games, recording one target, zero receptions, and playing limited snaps on offense and special teams.
His last meaningful offensive production came in 2022, when he caught eight passes for 141 yards during an expanded role.
Lions Adjust Roster Following Sam LaPorta Injury
Kennedy’s elevation to the active roster also came after another major setback for Detroit. Tight end Sam LaPorta was placed on injured reserve following a season-ending back injury.
Head coach Dan Campbell confirmed that LaPorta is unlikely to return this season, though the surgery was successful.
“I think we would be fortunate to have a chance to get him back for the rest of the season,” Campbell said via ESPN. “That’s very, very slim.”
Campbell added:
“The good news is the procedure went really well long-term.”
Why Tom Kennedy’s Role Matters for Detroit’s Playoff Push
With the Lions fighting to stay alive in the NFC playoff race, special teams consistency could prove critical. Kennedy’s reliability and explosive returns give Detroit a much-needed boost as they navigate the final weeks of the regular season.
For a franchise that values toughness, patience, and effort, Tom Kennedy’s breakout moment feels well-earned—and perfectly timed.
