Dec 21, 2025; Detroit, Michigan, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Kalif Raymond (11) celebrates after scoring a touchdown during the fourth quarter against the Pittsburgh Steelers at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images | Lon Horwedel-Imagn Images

With the season on the line in Week 17, the Detroit Lions played receiver Kalif Raymond for only six offensive snaps in a game that sent a clear message. This was the lowest number of offensive snaps Raymond has played when in the lineup since Week 6 of the 2025 season. Making the move all the more drastic was the fact that the week before, Raymond managed to play 19 snaps against the Pittsburgh Steelers and scored a late touchdown to help keep the game close. It seemed that this was a steadying performance that might allow Raymond a chance to stick with the Lions.

Instead, Detroit sent a message, taking the receiver and special teams piece off the field in a must-win spot. If the Lions have so little trust in the 32-year-old pass catcher, it is clearly time for the two sides to part ways. This is especially the case with Isaac TeSlaa and Tom Kennedy flashing potential in depth roles. With Raymond scheduled to hit free agency, it would be a surprise to see the two sides reach another agreement.

Raymond appears destined for a new landing spot after joining the Lions in the 2021 offseason and working his way into a contributing role. The veteran is a respected piece of Detroit’s past, but is no longer a necessary piece of the offense, taking away any motivation for a re-signing.

Lions’ Kalif Raymond Appears on His Way Out After Week 17 Usage

Raymond’s inconsistent usage isn’t a new issue, as the Lions’ uneven season has led to an up-and-down role for the veteran. This, along with Detroit’s offensive struggles, makes it clear that it is time for a change. Raymond can still contribute in the right spot, but the Lions need to focus on getting younger pieces more involved that can help inject energy into an offense that has grown increasingly stale.

Raymond has previously spent time with the Denver Broncos, New York Jets, New York Giants, and Tennessee Titans before carving out his role in Detroit. Now, the receiver will hit the market again with no shortage of potential landing spots based on the need for return options and veteran receiver depth.

For the Lions, the focus should be on getting TeSlaa more involved in the offense and utilizing your trio of extremely talented receivers. In the return game, Kennedy seems a great option to explore based on the energy and intensity that the pass catcher brings to the unit. Regardless of who, it is clear there will be offseason changes, and the starting point of this is parting ways with pieces the offense clearly no longer trusts.