# Detroit Lions Name New Punt Returner

> Detroit Lions appoint DeAndre Carter to replace injured Tom Kennedy as punt returner.
- Title: Detroit Lions Name New Punt Returner · Detroit Lions On SI
- Summary: Detroit Lions appoint DeAndre Carter to replace injured Tom Kennedy as punt returner. Detroit Lions named DeAndre Carter as new punt returner after Tom…
- Keywords: detroit lions, tom kennedy, deandre carters, mcl injury, punt returner, special teams, nfl, sports, Detroit, Lions, Name, Punt
- Source: Detroit Lions On SI — https://si.com/nfl/lions/onsi/detroit-lions-make-new-punt-returner-decision-crystal-clear
- Published: 2026-10-22T15:38:47+00:00
- Read time: 1 min
- Topics: detroit lions, tom kennedy, deandre carters, mcl injury, punt returner, special teams, nfl, sports
## Detroit Lions make punt returner decision
Detroit Lions have made their decision on who will return punts following wide receiver Tom Kennedy's season-ending MCL injury.
## Special teams coach Dave Fipp confirms DeAndre Carter
Special teams coach Dave Fipp says DeAndre Carter will take over punt return duties for the team and step in as the other kick returner.
## DeAndre Carter on practice squad
Carter is currently signed to the practice squad and is a likely candidate to be elevated this week.
## Wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery on replacement
Wide receivers coach Scottie Montgomery said replacing Kennedy would be more difficult than expected due to his versatility and competitive nature.
## Montgomery explains Kennedy's value
Montgomery stated Kennedy could play the F, X, and Z positions and provide quicker information than the box.
## Montgomery on Kennedy's leadership
Montgomery added Kennedy's competitive nature helped make players compete in the classroom and answer details correctly.
## Carter's NFL history
Carter signed with Baltimore Ravens in 2015 and has played for Houston Texans, Chicago Bears, and Washington Commanders.
## Carter's 2021 success
Carter earned an NFC Special Teams Player of the Week nod after a 101-yard kickoff return for a touchdown and first career receiving touchdown.
## Key takeaway

Detroit Lions named DeAndre Carter as new punt returner after Tom Kennedy's season-ending MCL injury.