First it was the running back that transcended the game in Honolulu blue. Now, every day that passes by seems to increase the possibility that the player that fans call ‘Megatron’ has played his final game in the NFL.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Calvin Johnson told two teammates during the 2015 season that he planned to retire. Those two players, Matthew Stafford and Stephen Tulloch were asked to keep it confidential. He also told his family that it was the end of his career.
After the season, Johnson told the same to head coach Jim Caldwell, who told him to think about it for a while during the off-season.
From Schefter’s Report:
Caldwell told Johnson not to rush his decision — to take his time, sources told ESPN. Out of respect to Caldwell, Johnson agreed to do just that, according to sources.
The Lions have not given up hope that Johnson could change his mind, but one person who knows Johnson well said, “He’s pretty content with his decision.”
After nine seasons in the NFL, Johnson’s body is beaten down. The five-time Pro Bowler has battled lingering ankle injuries and general body soreness to the point that it makes it difficult for him to return for another season, during which time he would turn 31 years old.
Despite battling injuries, Johnson has been very valuable for the Lions offense over the last few seasons. Last year was his 6th straight year with 1,000 yards receiving or more. The second overall pick of the 2007 NFL Draft has set nearly every reception record in Detroit Lions history and broke the NFL record for receiving yards in a season in 2012.
Schefter also reported that even though the Lions remain hopeful inside the organization, most outside of it expect Johnson to officially retire soon, despite taking the time to mull over the decision, mostly due to the respect for head coach Jim Caldwell.
Despite the report, nothing has been officially reported by the team of Calvin Johnson himself. We’ll keep you posted on if anything becomes official.
