The Detroit Lions have a pivotal offseason on the horizon, as general manager Brad Holmes will look to bolster a roster that suffered a shocking divisional round playoff exit to the Washington Commanders.
Though the Lions’ roster is filled with exciting talent and reliable veterans and has few weaknesses, the team should still look to add some new faces in free agency this offseason. The franchise is projected to have around $46 million in cap space, per Over the Cap, but that number could grow if Detroit decides to make some cuts.
There are a few potential cap casualties for the Lions, but Pride of Detroit’s John Whiticar lists wide receiver and special teamer Kalif Raymond as a possible offseason cut candidate.
“Almost unthinkable a year ago, Raymond’s contract and production puts him in a tough spot for the Lions,” Whiticar wrote. “The two-time All-Pro has not only shined as a returner during his Lions tenure, but also as a contributor on offense. His 2024 season was by far his worst offensively in Detroit, however.”
“Raymond had the most punt return yards of his career (413 yards, which led the league) and added a punt return touchdown as well,” Whiticar added. “The question is not his return ability, but whether the Lions want to pay over $6 million for a returner with a lessening impact on offense.”
Raymond has been a dynamic returner and occasional offensive threat since signing with the Lions in 2021. The 30-year-old was a journeyman for most of his career but has found a home in Detroit and a role that fits him well.
Though Raymond missed five games in 2024 due to an injury and isn’t a consistent offensive playmaker, the former undrafted free agent was a second-team All-Pro selection this year and continues to flourish in the return game.
If the Lions cut the veteran before June 1st, the team would only save $3.2 million and would eat $3.1 million in dead money. A post-June 1st cut makes more sense, as Detroit would save $4.8 million and incur just $1.5 million in dead money.
Cutting Raymond wouldn’t be a wise move from the Lions, as they would barely save any cash, and the former Holy Cross standout provides adequate depth at wide receiver and is one of the most explosive returners in football. Holmes would be better off keeping Raymond for the 2025 season.
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