Chicago Bears head coach Ben Johnson has been known over the last year to add pieces to the roster that he knew from his time as the offensive coordinator for the Detroit Lions. Johnson has done it again.
NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported that the Bears will be signing former Lions wide receiver and special teams returner Kalif Raymond. Last season, Raymond went for 289 yards and one touchdown while also returning a punt for a touchdown with the Lions.
This is the first outside free agent signing for the Bears that is an offensive player. If fans include Daniel Hardy, it would be the team's second special teams signing.
Bears special teams gets stronger with Kalif Raymond
Raymond is no slouch on offense as he instantly comes in and can compete to be the starting slot receiver for the Bears after the departure of Olamide Zaccheaus and the trade of DJ Moore. In his 11-year NFL career, Raymond has gone over 450 yards receiving in a season three times.
One thing that makes Raymond intriguing is that he is a returner, which suggests the team could be moving on from Devin Duvernay, who spent time on the team last year primarily as a special-teams returner. Chicago is looking for someone who can do both well, and Raymond fits that role.
The Bears have Rome Odunze and Luther Burden as the starting receivers, but it will be Raymond and 2025 undrafted rookie Jahdae Walker who will either be competing for the starting slot receiver role or simply both be on the field in the slot. Competition has clearly been brought in at the receiver, and it was needed.
Read more: It sure sounds like Bears 2025 undrafted rookie is ready for breakout 2026 season
This is a solid signing for the Bears that adds speed on offense and special teams.