Detroit Lions WR Kalif Raymond Joins Chicago Bears

The veteran wide receiver and punt returner signs a one-year deal with the Bears.

Published on Mar. 10, 2026

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The Detroit Lions are losing another key player, as wide receiver and kick returner Kalif Raymond has agreed to a one-year, $5.1 million deal with the Chicago Bears. Raymond, who spent the last five seasons with the Lions, was a standout on special teams and was named to the AP Second-Team All-Pro as a punt returner in 2022 and 2024.

Why it matters

The departure of Raymond is a blow to the Lions, who are already dealing with several other roster moves this offseason. Meanwhile, the Bears are bolstering their offense and special teams by adding the veteran playmaker, who will be reunited with former Lions offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, now the Bears' head coach.

The details

Raymond, 31, initially signed with the Denver Broncos in 2016 and has also played for the New York Jets, Giants, and Tennessee Titans before joining the Lions in 2021. In Detroit, he led the NFL in punt return yards with 413 in 2022 and was one of six players to log a punt return touchdown.

  • Raymond agreed to the one-year, $5.1 million deal with the Bears on March 10, 2026.
  • Raymond spent the last five seasons with the Detroit Lions from 2021 to 2025.

The players

Kalif Raymond

A 31-year-old wide receiver and punt returner who spent the last five seasons with the Detroit Lions.

Ben Johnson

The current head coach of the Chicago Bears, who previously served as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions.

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What they’re saying

“We're excited to add a dynamic playmaker like Kalif to our offense and special teams units. His experience and production will be a great asset as we continue to build a championship-caliber team.”

— Ben Johnson, Head Coach, Chicago Bears (Chicago Bears press release)

What’s next

The Bears will look to integrate Raymond into their offense and special teams units as they prepare for the 2026 NFL season.

The takeaway

The Lions' loss of Kalif Raymond is a significant one, as he was a key contributor on special teams and in the passing game. However, the Bears' addition of the veteran wide receiver and punt returner is a savvy move that should bolster their roster as they aim to build on their division title in 2025.