News

Actions

Report: Johnson told teammates he was retiring

Posted at 5:48 PM, Jan 31, 2016
and last updated 2016-02-01 08:22:32-05

We may have watched the last of Calvin Johnson on the football field. After nine seasons -- all of which were played with the Lions -- Johnson has reportedly made the decision to walk away.

The Lions wide receiver told Matthew Stafford and Stephen Tulloch he planned to retire after the 2015 season, ESPN's Adam Schefter reports.

"Caldwell told Johnson not to rush his decision -- to take his time," Schefter wrote. "Out of respect to Caldwell, Johnson agreed to do just that."

Word of Johnson's intention leaked after the season, prompting the 30-year-old to release a statement about his future.

"Like many players at this stage of their career, I am currently evaluating options for my future. I would expect to have a decision regarding this matter in the not-too-distant future," he said on January 6.More to follow.

Johnson was a frequent flyer on the injury report this season, battling nagging ankle injuries and the general wear and tear that comes with nine seasons in the NFL.

Despite the injuries, Johnson played in all 16 games this year. He caught for 1.214 yards and nine touchdowns.