Lions say they’re still giving Johnson time to decide future

The players and family members in the know apparently kept that secret so well that other members of Detroit’s organization, including Coach Jim Caldwell, did not learn of Johnson’s inclinations until its 7-9 season ended. The Detroit Lions are still giving Johnson time to ponder his future. Caldwell asked Johnson to take some time before making an official announcement, but thus far, he hasn’t appeared to change his mind.

Though his production on the field has remained stellar, Johnson has battled nagging knee, ankle and finger injuries in recent seasons.

“Regarding today’s ESPN report, we stand by our statement issued on January 6 regarding Calvin”.

The Lions have still not given up hope that Johnson will return in 2016, but the Lions star wide receiver already shared his decision to call it a career with quarterback Matthew Stafford and linebacker Stephen Tulloch. Johnson played in all 16 games this past season and hauled in 88 receptions for 1,214 yards and nine touchdowns.

He has played nine seasons in the National Football League, all with the Detroit Lions, and his numbers really weren’t too bad in 2015.

Obviously he feels like whatever damage he is doing to his body is just not worth any of the hassle anymore, which is super depressing.

Johnson was a six-time Pro Bowl selection. He set a single-season record for receiving yards in 2012 at 1,964 yards and is the Lions’ all-time leader in career receptions, at 731, and receiving yards, with 11,619. He was due to make $24 million this year, but the Lions could save more than half of that if they cut him this offseason. Barry Sanders did what he thought was right for him mentally and that was to retire from the game of football. But Carter says he understands why Johnson would leave the game.