The Detroit Lions’ 34–10 victory over the Cleveland Browns on Sunday was packed with big plays, but none stood out more than Kalif Raymond’s 65-yard punt return touchdown that broke the game wide open in the fourth quarter.
With Detroit nursing a 20–10 lead early in the final frame, Raymond fielded a punt near his own 35-yard line. What started as a routine return quickly turned into fireworks. He sprinted up the right sideline, cut across the field, and slipped through arm tackles before bursting into the open field. Moments later, he crossed the goal line, delivering his third career punt return touchdown — all of them as a member of the Lions.
After the game, Raymond didn’t make the moment about himself. Instead, he expressed gratitude and credited his teammates. “It’s just a blessing to be out there, man,” Raymond told reporters. “We got loose, and when I saw the crease, I just trusted the guys in front of me and hit it.”
The touchdown came after Raymond had already absorbed several punishing hits on earlier punt returns. Rather than shy away, he stayed aggressive, and his persistence paid off when he finally found daylight against Cleveland’s coverage team. Lions coaches praised his toughness, calling him one of the most resilient and underrated contributors on the roster.
Raymond’s celebration added even more weight to the play. After scoring, he immediately looked into the stands to find his wife, who was in attendance, and shared the moment with her. That gesture underscored just how meaningful the touchdown was for him beyond the football field.
Meanwhile, the Browns were left frustrated. Their special teams unit missed multiple tackle opportunities, and even the punter failed to attempt a last-resort stop that might have prevented the score. It was another breakdown in a game filled with mistakes for Cleveland.
For Detroit, Raymond’s return was the exclamation point. Combined with Amon-Ra St. Brown’s two touchdowns and a dominant defensive performance, the Lions coasted to their third straight win, improving their grip as one of the NFC’s top contenders.
Raymond summed it up best himself: “Anytime I can make a play to help this team, I’m going to give it everything I’ve got. I just thank God for the opportunity.”
