Larger-profile gamers doubtlessly coming back from damage have turn into one of many defining storylines for a dominant Lions crew, because the Lions might want to rigorously contemplate whom they select to activate from IR. A task participant is the subsequent man up right here.
The NFC North-leading team is opening Kalif Raymond‘s follow window on Thursday. Raymond has been on IR with a foot injury since late November. After lacking the required 4 video games, Raymond is again within the combine. The broad receiver/return man is not going to rely towards Detroit’s activations till formally moved again onto the 53-man roster.
4 activations stay for the Lions, who’ve linebacker Jalen Reeves-Maybin within the IR return window. Nevertheless, an offseason rule change has freed up two extra IR activations for groups through the postseason. The Lions might have these two spots earmarked for injured standouts, in order that they should be cautious within the close to time period. However Raymond seems on observe to be one among Detroit’s returning gamers quickly.
The crew has already used two activations on security Ifeatu Melifonwu. David Montgomery just isn’t on this equation, having not been positioned on IR; the beginning working again is seen as a player who could return in the playoffs. Aidan Hutchinson and Alex Anzalone are in play to be activated. The crew might want to save sufficient activations to accommodate that trio. Linebacker Derrick Barnes could also be in the mix to come back, however he has not been designated for return.
Groups usually take short-term approaches to their IR-return puzzles, activating prepared gamers as an alternative of ready on others’ returns. The Lions are in a extra fascinating scenario with a number of defensive starters on the radar to be activated. Hutchinson may return if the Lions reach the NFC championship game, whereas Davis (damaged jaw) has not but been deemed out for the season. The Lions not putting Davis on IR suggests they count on him to have an opportunity at returning. Anzalone suffered a damaged forearm final month; he can also issue into the crew’s plans. Alim McNeill and Malcolm Rodriguez is not going to, however the Lions have selections to make.
As for Raymond, he hit IR whereas main the NFL in punt return yards (390). Raymond is in Yr 4 with the Lions, having established himself as one of many NFL’s finest return males whereas contributing as a job participant on Detroit’s offense. The Lions have used Tim Patrick as their major No. 3 wideout, however Raymond would offer another choice for the NFL’s No. 1-ranked offense. He put collectively 576- and 616-yard seasons in 2021 and ’22; by 11 video games, Raymond caught 16 passes for 204 yards and two touchdowns.
