The Chicago Bears have strengthened their offensive and special teams unit by signing veteran wide receiver and return specialist Kalif Raymond to a one-year contract worth $5.1 million. The move reunites Raymond with Bears offensive coordinator Ben Johnson, under whom he previously played during his time with the Detroit Lions.
Chicago is making several roster changes as it reshapes its offense, particularly after the recent departure of wide receiver DJ Moore. Adding Raymond brings speed and versatility to the team, giving the Bears another explosive option both in the receiving game and on special teams.
Bears Add Speed With Kalif Raymond Signing
The Bears’ decision to sign Raymond highlights their focus on adding more speed and playmaking ability across the offense. Raymond’s familiarity with Ben Johnson’s system played an important role in the move.
During his time in Detroit from 2021 to 2024, Raymond worked closely with Johnson and was often used as a slot receiver in the offensive scheme. In that role, he averaged nearly 13 yards per catch, showing his ability to stretch the field and create explosive plays.
Kalif Raymond Contract Details
| Detail | Information |
|---|---|
| Player | Kalif Raymond |
| Team | Chicago Bears |
| Position | Wide Receiver / Kick Returner |
| Contract | 1 Year |
| Contract Value | $5.1 Million |
| Age | 31 |
| NFL Debut | 2016 |
The deal gives Chicago an experienced playmaker while maintaining flexibility in the roster for the upcoming season.
Reunion With Ben Johnson
Raymond’s signing also marks a reunion with Ben Johnson, who previously served as offensive coordinator in Detroit before joining the Bears.
Under Johnson’s system, Raymond was frequently used in the slot and became an efficient receiving target. His chemistry within that offensive structure helped him produce consistently when called upon.
Statistics from his time in Johnson’s offense show strong efficiency, including a career passer rating above 100 when targeted, with an especially high rating during the 2024 season.
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Impact on Chicago’s Special Teams
Raymond has built his reputation in the NFL primarily as an elite return specialist. The veteran has earned recognition as a two-time All-Pro returner, becoming one of the league’s most dangerous players on punt returns.
His arrival immediately strengthens Chicago’s special teams unit and gives the Bears another dynamic weapon in the return game.
If the roster remains unchanged, Raymond could potentially form one of the league’s more exciting return combinations alongside Devin Duvernay, providing the Bears with added explosiveness on special teams.
| Category | Detail |
|---|---|
| Return Recognition | 2-Time All-Pro Return Specialist |
| Primary Special Teams Role | Punt Returner |
| Key Strength | Speed and open-field playmaking |
| Special Teams Impact | Immediate upgrade for Chicago |
Raymond’s NFL Career Journey
Raymond entered the NFL in 2016 as an undrafted free agent with the Denver Broncos. His early career included time with several teams as he worked to establish himself in the league.
He later played for the New York Jets, New York Giants and Tennessee Titans before finding stability with the Detroit Lions.
Raymond joined Detroit in 2021, where he became a key contributor both as a receiver and a return specialist. Over five seasons with the Lions, he produced consistently while handling the majority of the team’s punt return duties.
| Category | Total |
|---|---|
| Seasons | 5 |
| Receptions | 171 |
| Receiving Yards | 2,185 |
| Touchdowns | 8 |
| Punt Return TDs | 3 |
He also delivered one of his memorable return touchdowns against the Cleveland Browns last season.
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Detroit Lions Move Forward After Raymond Departure
Raymond’s move to Chicago continues a series of offseason departures for the Detroit Lions. The veteran had become a dependable part of Detroit’s roster since arriving in 2021.
He began the 2025 season as the team’s third wide receiver behind Amon-Ra St. Brown and Jameson Williams, but his role decreased later in the year due to injuries and the emergence of younger players.
Kalif Raymond 2025 Season Stats
| Games | Receptions | Yards | Touchdowns |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2025 Season | 24 | 289 | 1 |
Despite the reduced role, Raymond remained an important presence on special teams and continued to contribute as a receiver.
For the Bears, Raymond adds experience, speed and versatility at a time when the team is reshaping its offensive roster.
His ability to contribute as both a receiver and a return specialist gives Chicago multiple ways to use him in their game plan. With a new-look offense taking shape, Raymond’s familiarity with Ben Johnson’s system could help him quickly adapt to his new team.
The signing also signals that the Bears may continue adding more speed and playmaking ability to their receiving corps in the coming weeks.
