The Chicago Bears didn’t make any huge splashes in free agency, but one of their underrated signings is wide receiver Kalif Raymond, who reunites with Ben Johnson after playing for him with the Detroit Lions. But it’s not just Johnson who will benefit from Raymond.
Special teams coordinator Richard Hightower praised general manager Ryan Poles for the addition of Raymond and rookie Zavion Thomas, who will be returning kicks for Chicago this season. Hightower gushed about Raymond’s All-Pro ability as a returner and how he’ll be key for Thomas’ development.
“[Raymond is an] outstanding talent, All-Pro returner … Been really excited to see him work in the building. Watching him from afar and then seeing him up close, you can see why he’s had the success that he’s had. And just to piggyback that with Zavion, that’s what Zavion needs to watch. As a young kid, watch what Kalif does because Kalif, he works his tail off and is a consummate pro.”
Raymond established himself as a top punt returner during his five seasons with the Lions, averaging 11.3 yards on 132 punts and three touchdowns. He’s a two-time second-team All-Pro as a return specialist both in 2022 and 2024. Hightower also recalled the challenge of defending Raymond when he was with Detroit.
“His ability to make the first man miss, it jumps off the tape,” Hightower said. “When we would play him twice a year, those weren’t weeks that we slept well. We knew we had a good challenge every week we had to play them. That first step quickness that he has is unbelievable and … he’s an aggressive returner. He wants to return the ball. He wants the ball in his hand.
“The other thing is just how well he gets along with his teammates and gets those guys to believe in blocking for him. That has jumped out to me in meetings.”
Raymond has the potential to be an impact contributor both on offense, where he’ll serve as the third wideout behind Rome Odunze and Luther Burden III, as well as a punt returner for Hightower’s special teams unit, which could make all the difference for Chicago.
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This article originally appeared on Bears Wire: Richard Hightower reacts to Bears’ addition of Kalif Raymond
Reporting by Alyssa Barbieri, Bears Wire / Bears Wire
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
