The Detroit Lions host the rival Chicago Bears to kick off a busy Thanksgiving NFL schedule. The team will do so without dynamic returner Kalif Raymond.
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NFL insider Ian Rapoport reported Wednesday afternoon that the Lions would place Raymond on Injured Reserve due to a foot injury. He will be out a minimum of four games, but the expectation is that he will return before the playoffs begin.
Raymond, an eight-year pro, is in his fourth season with the Lions. He has limited appearances in the offense with only 16 catches for 204 yards and two touchdowns this season, but he has a major role on special teams.
Raymond is the team's primary returner on punts, something he has done capably since arriving in Detroit. This season, he has 27 punt returns for 390 yards and one touchdown. His longest return was 90 yards. Raymond also has one kickoff return for 26 yards.
The former undrafted free agent out of Holy Cross has averaged at least 11.2 yards per punt return during his time with the Detroit Lions. He has scored two touchdowns as a returner.
The NFC North-leading Lions will have to move forward to the Thanksgiving battle against the Bears with a different player taking over for Raymond. The team has multiple options on the roster.
The options include Khalil Dorsey, who has three kickoff returns for 136 yards this season. The Lions also have Craig Reynolds, who returned five kickoffs for 133 yards last season. The depth chart lists Reynolds as Raymond's primary backup, but he does not have a return this season.
The Lions are not the only team in this matchup dealing with injuries. The Bears have ruled out offensive lineman Ryan Bates due to a concussion. The Bears also ruled out defensive back Elijah Hicks due to an ankle injury.
The Bears and Lions face off on Thursday while kicking off the Thanksgiving schedule. The two NFC North teams will play at 12:30 p.m. ET. CBS will provide coverage on TV. NFL+ subscribers will have streaming access.
