As the Detroit Lions’ 2024 regular season nears its conclusion, the 8–5 team remains firmly in the NFL playoff hunt, holding a 52% chance of reaching the postseason, according to NFL research. While the focus is on finishing strong and pushing toward the playoffs, the Lions will also face difficult roster decisions this offseason, regardless of how the season ends.
Like every NFL team, Detroit must evaluate its roster under the constraints of the NFL salary cap, performance trends, injuries, and long-term planning. Even productive and respected veterans can become cap casualties as teams attempt to balance competitiveness with financial flexibility. As a result, the Lions are expected to make several tough decisions, including potentially moving on from a longtime contributor.
Kalif Raymond’s Future With the Lions in Question
One veteran whose future in Detroit appears uncertain is wide receiver and return specialist Kalif Raymond. Raymond has missed the past two games due to an ankle injury, but he returned to practice in a limited capacity ahead of Sunday’s Week 15 matchup against Matthew Stafford and the Los Angeles Rams.
According to Lions special teams coordinator Dave Fipp, via team writer Tim Twentyman, Tom Kennedy is expected to continue handling kick returns, while Raymond would resume punt return duties if healthy.
Despite that vote of confidence, speculation is growing that Raymond’s role with the Lions could be nearing its end.
Veteran Receiver’s Production Has Declined
In a December 11 report, Chris Schad of Detroit Jock City suggested that Raymond’s days in Detroit may be numbered. Schad noted that Raymond’s role could be “on borrowed time” as the Lions prepare both for the Rams and for offseason roster planning.
Raymond has been a reliable depth wide receiver and returner since joining the Lions in 2021, but his production has dipped noticeably in 2024. While he earned second-team All-Pro honors as a punt returner, his return averages have nearly been cut in half this season, and his offensive role has continued to shrink.
Raymond’s statistical peak came during the 2022 season, when he recorded 47 receptions for 616 yards, a level of production he has not approached since.
“If anything, Raymond’s clock is already ticking despite Fipp’s comments,” Schad wrote. “It could lead to his departure from Detroit in the coming weeks.”
Lions Face Tough Offseason Decisions
As the Lions push toward the playoffs, Raymond remains focused on contributing when healthy, particularly against the Rams. However, with declining production and looming cap considerations, Detroit may ultimately be forced to move on from the veteran receiver this offseason.
For now, the priority remains winning — but Raymond’s future with the Lions is a storyline to watch closely as the season winds down.
