Ahead of their Thanksgiving matchup at Ford Field, the Detroit Lions have announced several roster adjustments, including the loss of a key player.
Wide receiver Kalif Raymond has been placed on the reserve/injured (IR) list due to a foot injury sustained during last Sunday’s 24-6 victory over the Indianapolis Colts. In response, the Lions have promoted wide receiver Maurice Alexander and linebacker David Long Jr. from the practice squad to the active roster. Offensive lineman Jamarco Jones has also been elevated from the practice squad to the active/inactive roster.
Raymond’s IR designation isn’t unexpected. Earlier this week, head coach Dan Campbell acknowledged Raymond would miss time but remained optimistic about his potential return later in the season. Campbell shared that the team sought a second opinion before making the move official. Reports indicate the Lions are hopeful Raymond could rejoin the lineup ahead of the playoffs.
In the meantime, Maurice Alexander, known for his special teams contributions, may take on a larger role in the interim. Alexander showcased his return abilities during the 2022 season, recording six kick returns for 146 yards, including a long of 47 yards. He has been a consistent member of Detroit’s practice squad since.
The promotion of David Long Jr. adds experience to the defense, especially with linebacker Alex Anzalone sidelined after breaking his forearm in Week 11 against the Jacksonville Jaguars. Long, a seasoned linebacker with six NFL seasons under his belt, started 49 of 75 career games, including all 17 for the Miami Dolphins in 2022. That standout year included 113 tackles, a sack, a fumble recovery, and a pass deflection.
These roster moves aim to bolster the Lions as they prepare for Thursday’s divisional clash.
