Lions Veteran Playmaker Deserves More Playing Time in Playoffs

The Detroit Lions are awaiting their opponent in the divisional round of the playoffs. After securing the much-needed first-round bye, the Lions are using the opportunity to get healthier for the postseason.

Most of Detroit's injuries this season came on the defensive side of the ball. The offense, of course, suffered its share of injuries as well, but with the looming return of David Montgomery, offensive coordinator Ben Johnson should have close to his ideal rotation for next week.

Even though the Lions offense is largely a well-oiled machine at this point, it could benefit from minor changes in snap count and role. One player who has been making a case for an expanded role on offense is veteran wide receiver Kalif Raymond.

Because Raymond was once again one of the best punt returners in the league, his impact as a wide receiver was understated all season. Raymond put up more yards in punt returns than anybody in the league despite missing five games. He scored a 90-yard punt return TD in Week 8 and is averaging 13.8 yards per return.

In the same game, Raymond also had a touchdown catch, his second of the season. In Jameson Williams' absence, Raymond showed that he can make an impact in an expanded role.

Later in the season, the 30-year-old playmaker suffered a foot injury that sidelined him for five games before returning in Week 18.

In the regular-season finale, Raymond only played four offensive snaps and had one catch for 11 yards.

It is understandable that the team doesn't want to overexert Raymond offensively. Tim Patrick has thrived in the WR3 role and had an impressive bounce-back season. Plus, the Lions like to use double tight end sets which should continue to be the case in the postseason.

At the same time, Raymond has been very solid as a wideout since he arrived in Detroit in 2021. He took his play to another level in the last few seasons. In his limited offensive snaps, he has received a solid 70.9 grade on Pro Football Focus, in line with his previous two seasons. He is a reliable hand who doesn't make many mistakes, which could prove to be crucial in the playoffs.

Raymond will be relied upon as a specialist but an increased role could be a nice boost to the Lions as they attempt to make the Super Bowl.

More Lions news and rumors: