The Detroit Lions are reportedly adding experience to their special teams unit by signing former Chicago Bears wide receiver and return specialist DeAndre Carter to their practice squad. The move comes as Detroit looks for additional options following an injury to one of its key returners.
According to NFL insider Tom Pelissero, the Lions are bringing Carter into the organization after hosting him for a workout on Wednesday, October 14. The veteran wide receiver is expected to provide valuable depth and experience as Detroit prepares for its upcoming games.
Carter’s arrival gives the Lions another experienced option in the return game while offering the coaching staff additional flexibility on special teams. Although he is primarily known for his ability to handle punts and kickoffs, his experience as a receiver could also prove useful if the team needs additional offensive depth.
Detroit Lions Add Experienced Return Specialist
The Lions’ decision to pursue Carter comes at a time when the team needs to strengthen its options on special teams. Tom Kennedy, who has contributed as a returner for Detroit, suffered a season-ending medial collateral ligament injury, creating a need for another experienced player in that role.
Carter has spent several seasons in the NFL and has played for multiple franchises. His experience across different teams and offensive systems could help him adjust to Detroit’s requirements without needing an extended period to understand the demands of professional football.
While the signing is expected to provide immediate depth, Carter’s eventual role will depend on his performance in practice and the coaching staff’s assessment of his abilities.
Joining the practice squad does not automatically guarantee a place on the active roster. However, it gives Carter an opportunity to demonstrate that he can contribute to the Lions during the remainder of the season.
Detroit will be hoping that his experience and familiarity with the return game can help the team address its current personnel needs.
Carter’s Previous Experience With the Chicago Bears
Carter previously played for the Chicago Bears, appearing in 17 games across two stints with the organization.
His most notable contribution to Chicago came in 2024, when he served as one of the team’s primary options for returning punts and kickoffs. His ability to handle both responsibilities made him a useful option for the Bears’ special teams unit.
During his 13 appearances that season, Carter averaged 9.3 yards per punt return across 17 attempts. He also averaged 31.9 yards per kickoff return on 15 attempts, demonstrating his ability to generate significant field position when given an opportunity.
Those kickoff-return numbers placed him among the league’s more productive returners in that category during the season.
For teams looking to improve their starting field position, a reliable return specialist can make an important difference. A strong return can give the offense a shorter distance to cover, while consistent decision-making helps prevent costly mistakes.
Carter’s experience in Chicago therefore provides a useful reference point for what he could potentially offer Detroit.
Although his previous performances do not guarantee similar production with the Lions, his background suggests that he has the skills required to compete for a role on special teams.
A Veteran Player With NFL Experience
Carter entered the NFL as an undrafted free agent in 2015. Since then, he has built a career through persistence, versatility and his ability to contribute in different situations.
Unlike players selected early in the draft, undrafted free agents often have to work harder to establish themselves. They must earn opportunities through training camp performances, roster battles and their willingness to contribute wherever a team needs them.
Carter has managed to remain in the league by offering value as both a receiver and a return specialist.
Over his NFL career, he has appeared in 111 games across eight seasons, according to the report. His experience includes 117 receptions for 1,331 receiving yards and six touchdowns.
Although those receiving numbers are not the primary reason behind Detroit’s interest, they demonstrate that Carter has experience beyond returning kicks.
His familiarity with offensive responsibilities could be helpful if the Lions require additional depth at wide receiver. It could also allow the coaching staff to consider him for different assignments depending on the team’s needs.
For a team managing injuries and roster changes, having an experienced player who can perform multiple duties can be particularly valuable.
Why the Signing Could Benefit Detroit
The Lions’ reported decision to sign Carter reflects the importance of maintaining depth throughout the season.
Injuries are an unavoidable part of professional football, and losing a key contributor can force teams to make adjustments quickly. Special teams can be particularly challenging because the players involved must combine speed, awareness, sound judgment and reliable execution.
A return specialist must assess the coverage unit, identify available running lanes and make quick decisions about whether to advance the ball or secure possession.
Carter’s experience in those situations could make him a practical addition to Detroit’s practice squad.
The Lions also have an opportunity to evaluate him in their own system before deciding whether to give him a larger role. Practice sessions can help the coaching staff assess his current form, physical condition and understanding of the team’s approach.
If he performs well, Detroit could consider elevating him to the active roster when appropriate.
However, the move should not automatically be interpreted as a guarantee that Carter will immediately replace Kennedy or become the team’s primary returner. The coaching staff will need to determine how best to distribute responsibilities among the available players.
Carter Could Provide More Than Special Teams Depth
While Carter’s return ability is expected to be his most immediate attraction, his experience at wide receiver gives Detroit another potential option.
The Lions have invested in developing their offensive personnel, but roster depth remains important throughout a demanding NFL season.
A player who understands the responsibilities of a receiver can provide insurance if injuries or other roster changes affect the position.
Carter’s career has also exposed him to different coaching staffs and playing environments. That experience may help him adapt to Detroit’s expectations and contribute in whichever capacity the organization requires.
Nevertheless, his immediate priority will likely be demonstrating that he can improve the team’s return options.
The practice squad offers an opportunity to prove his value, although he will still need to compete for any future promotion.
What the Move Means for the Lions’ Season
Detroit’s reported addition of Carter is a reminder that roster management involves more than signing star players or pursuing major trades.
Depth acquisitions can become important when injuries disrupt a team’s original plans. An experienced return specialist may not attract the same attention as a starting quarterback or a leading wide receiver, but his contributions can influence field position and special teams performance.
The Lions will be looking for dependable execution as they continue their campaign. Carter’s background gives them another player to evaluate while they work to maintain stability in the return game.
For Carter, meanwhile, the move represents another opportunity to extend his NFL career and establish a role with a team competing in the NFC North.
His previous experience with Chicago could make the transition particularly interesting, as he now has an opportunity to contribute to one of the Bears’ division rivals.
Whether he eventually earns a place on Detroit’s active roster remains to be seen. His performance in practice and the team’s evolving needs will likely determine what happens next.
Final Thoughts
The Detroit Lions are reportedly signing former Chicago Bears wide receiver and return specialist DeAndre Carter to their practice squad as they look to strengthen their special teams depth.
Carter brings years of NFL experience, a history of handling both punt and kickoff returns, and the versatility to contribute as a receiver when required.
His previous work with Chicago, particularly during the 2024 season, provides a clear picture of the skills he could bring to Detroit.
Although the signing does not guarantee an immediate active-roster role, it gives both the player and the organization an opportunity to assess whether the partnership can develop into something more.
For the Lions, the priority is finding dependable options to address their return-game needs. For Carter, the goal will be to make the most of another opportunity and demonstrate that he still has plenty to offer at the professional level.
