Late Thursday, the Detroit Lions made a roster change that could indicate their plans for the final game of the season against the Minnesota Vikings. The team waived wide receiver Tom Kennedy and re-signed defensive back Morice Norris to the practice squad. On the surface, this move suggests that Kalif Raymond, the Lions’ receiver and punt returner, is likely to return to action after being sidelined. Kennedy had been handling kick and punt return duties during Raymond’s absence, but Raymond has now practiced for two weeks, making his return to the field almost certain.
The Lions had already opened a roster spot earlier in the week when they released Norris from the 53-man roster. Raymond could have taken that spot, avoiding the need to waive Kennedy.
Meanwhile, Lions linebacker and defensive captain Alex Anzalone, who has missed the last six games due to a broken forearm, returned to practice this week. Although it’s a quick recovery, with just two practices and a walkthrough before the game, Anzalone was a full participant in Thursday’s session. He spoke to the media afterward about the tough decisions surrounding his potential return.
“The doctors and trainers go over the risks: whether to wait a week, two weeks, or push it this week,” Anzalone explained. “For me, it’s about weighing if I’d be okay with not playing in the Super Bowl if something went wrong. That’s the decision I need to make.”
It’s possible the Lions may hold off on activating Anzalone for this week, as they value the flexibility that an open roster spot provides. However, with the way things are shaping up, his return for Sunday’s game is on the table, which could give a significant boost to the team’s defense.
