Understandably, all the focus for the Chicago Bears has been on the receiver position after the blockbuster trade of DJ Moore. It was an expected move as the veteran's salary didn't match his production, and the chemistry with Caleb Williams wasn't there. However, this move has left one free agent signing clearly underrated as we go deeper into the 2026 offseason. Former Detroit Lion Kalif Raymond was added to Chicago's roster on a one-year, $3.5 million deal and gives the Bears a clear secondary option.
Raymond is an experienced returner and a receiver who has proven himself capable of carrying a larger load when needed. In the 2021 season, the veteran receiver totaled 576 receiving yards and followed this up with 616 the following season. While these aren't the type of numbers Chicago fans should expect, it is great to have a backup option that clearly can step up and produce if needed.
Chicago has four clear targets in Luther Burden, Rome Odunze, Colston Loveland, and Cole Kmet. This is a stacked group of playmakers, giving Raymond a chance to thrive as the forgotten man in the Chicago offense. Forgotten in the sense that the opposing defense is going to be focusing elsewhere anytime that the pass catcher is on the field. This gives Caleb Williams and Raymond the chance to target weak spots on a defense and consistently connect.
Bears Signing of Receiver Kalif Raymond Remains Clearly Underrated Offseason Move
While Raymond is far from the talent of Moore, the pass catcher is far more suited for what the Bears needed at the position. Chicago's offense was missing a capable role player who could step up and deliver in big moments when needed, or was willing to fade into the background. Any way that you look at it, the signing of Raymond is a great decision for the Bears and an underrated piece of the team's 2026 offseason.
For Raymond, it makes sense to join a division rival, leaving the Detroit Lions and aligning himself with the defending NFC North champs. While the Bears have lost some defensive pieces in free agency, all the needed pieces to defend their title remain in place. The former Lion is a big piece of this and should be expected to fill a larger role than many outside pundits might expect.
The Bears now have the perfect depth chart of playmakers, including two incredible options at running back and an experienced backup and role player in Raymond. No question, the signing has been slept on early in the offseason. This is something that fans and pundits will quickly realize when the 2026 season gets underway, and Raymond's ability to impact the offense and help set the tone becomes evident.