The Chicago Bears quietly added another weapon in free agency. But the reaction from Detroit may say just as much about the move as the signing itself.
Shortly after news broke that the Bears agreed to a one-year deal with former Detroit Lions wide receiver and return specialist Kalif Raymond, Lions star receiver Amon-Ra St. Brown shared a heartfelt message about his longtime teammate.
“Greatest teammate I’ve ever had. Lockermate since rookie year… love you brother,” St. Brown wrote on X.
The message quickly drew attention across the NFL, highlighting just how respected Raymond was inside Detroit’s locker room. Now, he brings that same leadership and versatility to a Bears team continuing to reshape its offense in Johnson’s second year as head coach.
Bears Add Familiar Weapon for Ben Johnson’s Offense
Raymond’s move to Chicago reunites him with Johnson, who served as Detroit’s offensive coordinator during Raymond’s most productive seasons with the Lions.
Raymond joined Detroit in 2021, the same year the Lions drafted St. Brown. Over the next five seasons, he became a reliable complementary weapon while also carving out a major role on special teams.
During his time with Detroit, Raymond totaled 171 receptions for 2,185 yards and eight touchdowns, while providing consistent speed and versatility in the offense.
For Chicago, the signing helps address a role that opened up after the departure of veteran receiver Olamide Zaccheaus, who served as a depth receiver and situational target in the Bears’ offense.
Raymond offers a similar skill set along with familiarity with Johnson’s system.
His quickness and ability to stretch the field could allow him to immediately slide into the type of rotational role Zaccheaus previously held.
Reuniting with Johnson should help ease Raymond’s transition to Chicago.
He is also familiar with Bears wide receivers coach Antwaan Randle El, who previously coached him in Detroit.
Raymond Could Boost Bears Special Teams Unit
While Raymond’s offensive contributions are valuable, his biggest impact in Chicago may come on special teams.
Raymond developed into one of the NFL’s most dangerous return specialists during his time in Detroit. He earned Second-Team All-Pro honors as a punt returner in both 2022 and 2024.
In 2024, Raymond led the NFL with 413 punt return yards, further solidifying his reputation as one of the league’s most explosive return threats.
That element adds another layer of value for Chicago. The Bears have been looking to improve field position and explosiveness in the return game.
The emotional response from St. Brown also speaks to another aspect Raymond brings to the Bears: leadership.
Detroit’s star receiver credited Raymond as a key presence in the locker room during the Lions’ rise over the past several seasons. Now, that veteran voice joins a Bears roster continuing to build around Johnson’s offensive vision.
For Chicago, the signing may not have generated the biggest headlines of free agency.
However, based on the reaction from Detroit, it’s clear the Bears are adding a player who made a lasting impact in the Lions’ locker room.
Bears Newest WR Addition Given Strong Departing Words by Amon-Ra St. Brown