What Does a Former Lions Receiver Add to the Bears in 2026?
Following a successful 2025 season, the Chicago Bears are poised to continue retooling their roster. Many of their early moves have been focused on fixing the defense. However, they have now added a new weapon to the offense. According to Ian Rapoport, the Bears have reached an agreement with wide receiver Kalif Raymond. It is a one-year deal worth approximately $5 million.
Raymond started his career in 2016 after signing with the Denver Broncos as an undrafted free agent. Following that, he spent time with the Giants and Jets in 2017. In 2018, he was on both the Giants' and Titans' practice squads, never appearing in a game. He then played with the Titans from 2019 through 2020. Finally, he joined the Lions in 2021 and has been with them since then. Now, he gets a reunion with his former Lions offensive coordinator, Ben Johnson, in Chicago.
His connection with Johnson is sure to be one of the main reasons for this signing. It ensures that the offense is running as smoothly as possible due to the fact that all players are comfortable in the system. It also fills a critical need, due to the wide receiver room being thin following the trade of D.J. Moore. Raymond does not have eye-catching stats, as in his career he has 190 catches for 2,554 yards and nine touchdowns. Nevertheless, the 31-year-old brings a unique skill set to the team. His speed and ability to create big plays have the potential to raise the offense to the next level. He is also able to stretch the field, which would ideally open up space for the other receivers.
While the depth in the receiver room was needed, it is not the most important role that Raymond will have on the team. Throughout his career, he has been a dangerous returner. He has a total of 188 punt returns for 1,948 yards and three touchdowns. Additionally, the seven-year veteran has 62 kickoff returns for 1,338 yards. This is one of the areas in which his game has really excelled over time. It is also a great addition to the team as it seems sure to improve the Bears' starting field position throughout the season.
The signing of Raymond gives the Chicago Bears an experienced player who can contribute in multiple ways. While he may not be a top receiving option, his speed and familiarity with Johnson’s system could help the offense adjust quickly. Raymond’s ability to stretch the field and create explosive plays adds another dimension to the Bears’ passing attack. His impact on special teams may ultimately be where he provides the most value. Overall, this move strengthens depth on offense and special teams as Chicago continues preparing for the upcoming season.
