The Detroit Lions face a crucial offseason ahead, with general manager Brad Holmes aiming to strengthen a roster that experienced a surprising divisional round playoff elimination against the Washington Commanders.
Even though the Lions’ lineup boasts thrilling talent and dependable veterans with minimal weaknesses, the team should still consider bringing in fresh players through free agency this offseason. According to Over the Cap, the franchise is expected to possess approximately $46 million in cap space, but that figure may increase if Detroit opts to make some roster cuts.
The Lions may face some potential cap casualties, but Pride of Detroit’s John Whiticar identifies wide receiver and special teamer Kalif Raymond as a likely offseason cut candidate.
“Nearly inconceivable just a year prior, Raymond’s contract and performance place him in a challenging position with the Lions,” wrote Whiticar. The two-time All-Pro has excelled not only as a returner during his time with the Lions but also as an offensive contributor. “Nonetheless, his 2024 season was clearly his least productive offensively in Detroit.”
Since joining the Lions in 2021, Raymond has proven to be an energetic returner and sometimes a scoring option. The 30-year-old spent the majority of his career as a journeyman but has discovered a place in Detroit and a position that suits him perfectly.
Although Raymond sat out five games in 2024 because of an injury and isn’t a reliable offensive playmaker, the former undrafted free agent earned a second-team All-Pro spot this year and keeps excelling in the return game.
If the Lions release the veteran prior to June 1st, the team would save only $3.2 million and incur $3.1 million in dead money. A cut after June 1st is more logical, since Detroit would save $4.8 million while only facing $1.5 million in dead money.
Releasing Raymond wouldn’t be a smart decision for the Lions, as they would hardly save any money, and the ex-Holy Cross star offers sufficient depth at wide receiver while being one of the most dynamic returners in the game. Holmes would benefit more from retaining Raymond for the 2025 season.