Kalif Raymond faced a familiar decision when determining where he would play during the 2026 season.

During free agency, the veteran wide receiver received interest from several teams, including the Seattle Seahawks and the San Francisco 49ers. However, his final decision ultimately came down to two teams within the NFC North. Raymond could either remain with the Detroit Lions for a sixth season or reunite with a former coach by joining the Chicago Bears.

In the end, Raymond chose Chicago, largely because of the opportunity to work again with Ben Johnson. Johnson previously served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator before leaving the organization in 2025 to become the Bears’ head coach.

Explaining his decision, Raymond said he was eager to be part of Johnson’s offensive system. He praised Johnson’s creativity, noting that the scheme allows players to line up in various positions while still finding ways to get the ball in their hands. For Raymond, the chance to play in that type of offense—and learn directly under Johnson—was an appealing opportunity.

Johnson also expressed enthusiasm about adding Raymond to the roster. The Bears coach believes the receiver will provide valuable experience to a young receiving group that includes Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III. Johnson added that Raymond may have the opportunity to take on a more prominent role in Chicago’s offense than he did during his final season in Detroit.

If that proves to be the case, Raymond’s move to a new team and city could give him both a larger role on offense and a fresh start with a different uniform.