The Detroit Lions, currently leading the NFC North, face important decisions regarding which players to activate from IR as they prepare for the postseason. One of the key storylines is the return of role players, including wide receiver and return specialist Kalif Raymond. Raymond, who has been sidelined with a foot injury since late November, is now eligible to return, with his practice window opening on Thursday. He will not count against the team’s activation limit until he’s officially moved back to the 53-man roster.
The Lions have four remaining IR activations, with linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin also in the IR-return window. However, a new offseason rule allows two additional IR activations for teams during the playoffs, which could be used for standout players. With these limitations in mind, Detroit must manage its activations carefully, balancing short-term needs with long-term goals. Raymond seems poised to be one of the players activated soon.
The Lions have already used two activations on safety Ifeatu Melifonwu. Notably, running back David Montgomery, who was not placed on IR, is expected to return during the playoffs. Defensive stars like Aidan Hutchinson and Alex Anzalone could also be activated, leaving the Lions with limited activation slots. Linebacker Derrick Barnes could be another potential return, though he hasn’t been designated for return yet.
The Lions’ situation is more complex than usual, as several key defensive players, such as Hutchinson and Anzalone, are in line to return. Hutchinson could be activated if the team advances to the NFC Championship Game, and linebacker Jack Davis (recovering from a broken jaw) has not been ruled out for the season, suggesting the Lions expect him to return. Anzalone, who broke his forearm last month, could also contribute in the postseason.
As for Raymond, he was placed on IR while leading the NFL in punt-return yards (390) and has been a reliable contributor on both special teams and offense. In his fourth season with the Lions, Raymond has proven himself as one of the top return men in the league, while also serving as a valuable role player on offense. While Tim Patrick has filled in as the No. 3 receiver, Raymond’s return would provide the Lions with another weapon in their high-powered offense. Through 11 games this season, Raymond recorded 16 catches for 204 yards and two touchdowns.
