While he doesn't get a ton of attention, Detroit Lions wide receiver Kalif Raymond is an important piece for the team in 2025.
Raymond is entering his fifth year with the Lions and has proven to be a steady contributor on offense when given opportunities. He has also been an effective returner on kickoffs.
But Raymond has even more importance for Detroit this season, as he offers the Lions an insurance policy at wide receiver in the event rookie Isaac TeSlaa isn't capable of adequately filling the WR3 role after the Tim Patrick trade.
Despite all that, Bleacher Report's Kristopher Knox listed Raymond as a trade candidate ahead of Week 1. Here's why:
This is mostly due to the emergence of young receivers Isaac TeSlaa and Dominic Lovett. The former's impressive camp contributed to the previous trade of Tim Patrick, and if the latter progresses, Raymond could also become expendable.
While Raymond's special teams value can't be overlooked, Detroit gave Lovett opportunities to return kicks this summer, and Craig Reynolds is also capable.
Teams that need a proven returner and/or added receiver depth should be interested in Raymond, who would likely carry a price point similar to Patrick.
It's true that TeSlaa was very impressive this offseason, but that does not guarantee he's going to have the same success in real NFL games, especially early on.
Lovett no doubt had his moments during the offseason, also, but not to the point where we can lock him in as a reliable contributor in the passing game.
This is why holding on to Raymond is important. If neither rookie fully steps up the way the Lions need them to, the veteran wideout and return man can fill the void.
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