In a move that signals growing trust in a long-tenured depth player, Tom Kennedy has been named the Lions’ starting punt returner for the 2026 season. The decision was confirmed by the team’s special teams coordinator, who indicated Kennedy will handle punt returns for the foreseeable future.
Kennedy entered the league as an undrafted free agent from Bryant and has been with Detroit since 2019. While his breakout on special teams hasn’t come in large bursts, he has contributed as a punt returner and kick returner over the years. In total, Kennedy has four career punt returns, three of which came in the most recent season. He also has 26 career kickoff returns, including 16 in the previous year.
Context for the change
– The punt return duties had previously belonged to Kalif Raymond. However, with Raymond moving on to other teams, the role opened up entering the offseason.
– A three-man competition for the job included free agent addition Greg Dortch, who had more punt return experience and familiarity with a former offensive coordinator, but Dortch was released before the regular season.
– Dominic Lovett and Kennedy were also considered; Lovett was a practice squad member after making the team previously, while Kennedy was briefly cut but returned to the practice squad.
Current status and implications
– The Lions have indicated Kennedy will start returning punts in Week 1 and beyond. The team also holds an extra roster spot, giving flexibility in elevating Kennedy to active status for gameday or maintaining him on the practice squad for the first three weeks.
– Kennedy’s role is specifically on special teams as a returner. The Lions’ receiving corps features Amon-Ra St. Brown, Jameson Williams, and supplementary options, with Tay Martin competing for a roster spot. Kennedy projects as a depth option who contributes primarily on special teams rather than as a major offensive contributor.
– Over his eight-year NFL career, Kennedy has appeared in a limited number of games, with a peak of 12 games in a single season. His continued presence on the roster underscores the Lions’ willingness to lean on trusted depth and specialization on special teams.
outlook
With Kennedy installed as the punt returner, Detroit aims to stabilize its return game and create favorable field-position opportunities. While his primary involvement is on special teams, his experience and reliability could become an overlooked but valuable asset as the season unfolds.
