At just 5-foot-8, Kalif Raymond was the ultimate underdog story in the NFL. Undrafted in 2016, he fought hard every step of the way. Back in 2021, coach Dan Campbell didn’t have to look far to find a player who embodies that relentless Detroit Lions’ spirit. “I watched 10 plays, and I was like, ‘Holy sh*t. Whatever it takes, (Detroit general manager) Brad (Holmes), let’s get this guy in here,” Campbell said. 

Now, let’s dive into exactly what Raymond’s contract looks like, how much he earns each year with the Lions, and the career earnings that got him to this financial point. 

What is Kalif Raymond’s net worth?

Kalif Raymond’s net worth in 2025 is estimated at around $18.87 million. This comes from years of grinding through the NFL as a wide receiver and return specialist, steadily rising from undrafted free agent to a valued piece on the Lions roster. His net worth is mostly tied to his NFL salary earnings and contract bonuses over an 8-year career. 

Kalif Raymond’s contract breakdown

Raymond’s current deal with the Detroit Lions is a 2-year contract extension signed in 2023. The contract is worth $10.5 million total and includes a $3 million signing bonus. Of this, $8.15 million is guaranteed, making it a secure deal for Raymond. The contract runs through the 2025 season. 

In 2025 alone, his contract includes a $1.83 million base salary, a $1.5 million restructure bonus, and a $160,000 workout bonus. His cap hit this year is $6.95 million, and the Lions carry a dead cap value of $6.59 million if they release him.

Kalif Raymond’s salary breakdown

In 2024, Raymond was set to earn a total of $4.1 million, including base salary and bonuses. For 2025, his total earnings are expected to be around $4.9 million with bonuses. He took a pay cut in 2025, lowering his base salary from $4.35 million to $1.83 million, but he gained more guaranteed money and a restructuring bonus, which secures more guaranteed cash upfront.

Kalif Raymond’s career earnings

Throughout his professional career, Kalif Raymond’s earnings have accumulated steadily across multiple NFL teams. From 2016 through 2025, the figure totalled approximately $17.9 million. This total includes base salaries, signing bonuses, game roster bonuses, workout bonuses, and performance incentives. 

Despite starting as an undrafted free agent, Raymond made the most of his opportunities with the Denver Broncos, New York Giants, New York Jets, Tennessee Titans, and Detroit Lions. 

A look at Kalif Raymond’s college and professional career

Kalif Raymond’s journey started at Greater Atlanta Christian High School, where he recorded 30 catches for 511 yards and nine touchdowns. He went on to play college football at Holy Cross, a smaller Division I-AA school. 

As a freshman in 2012, he earned a first-team All-Patriot League selection and All-Eastern College Athletic Conference honors. His sophomore year saw 42 catches for 400 yards and three touchdowns, plus notable kickoff return stats. By junior year, he was among the top in the Patriot League for punt returns and receptions.

Despite his success, Raymond went undrafted in the 2016 NFL Draft. The Denver Broncos signed him as a free agent, marking the start of his pro career. Over eight NFL seasons, he has been a journeyman, but since 2021, he has been playing for the Detroit Lions. 

He earned an AP Second-Team All-Pro nod as a punt returner in 2022. Known for his speed and agility, Raymond rose from journeyman to a dependable Lions playmaker. His work ethic and determination have earned him respect across the league and from coaches like Dan Campbell, who see him as a vital part of the Lions’ culture.