:Calvin Johnson
{{Short description|American football player (born 1985)}}
{{Other people||Calvin Johnson (disambiguation)}}
{{Use American English|date=October 2022}}
{{Use mdy dates|date=January 2024}}
{{Infobox NFL biography
| name = Calvin Johnson
| image = Calvin Johnson by Gage Skidmore.jpg
| alt =
| caption = Johnson in 2024
| number = 81
| position = Wide receiver
| birth_date = {{Birth date and age|1985|9|29|mf=y}}
| birth_place = Tyrone, Georgia, U.S.
| height_ft = 6
| height_in = 5
| weight_lb = 237
| high_school = Sandy Creek (Tyrone, Georgia)
| college = Georgia Tech (2004–2006)
| draftyear = 2007
| draftround = 1
| draftpick = 2
| pastteams =
- Detroit Lions ({{NFL Year|2007|2015}})
| status =
| highlights =
- 3× First-team All-Pro (2011–2013)
- Second-team All-Pro (2010)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2010–2015)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2011, 2012)
- NFL receptions leader (2012)
- NFL receiving touchdowns co-leader (2008)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
- Detroit Lions All-Time Team
- Pride of the Lions
- Fred Biletnikoff Award (2006)
- Paul Warfield Trophy (2006)
- Unanimous All-American (2006)
- First-team All-American (2005)
- ACC Player of the Year (2006)
- ACC Rookie of the Year (2004)
- 3× First-team All-ACC (2004–2006)
; NFL records
- Most receiving yards in a season: 1,964
- Most consecutive 100-yard receiving games: 8
| statleague = NFL
| statlabel1 = Receptions
| statvalue1 = 731
| statlabel2 = Receiving yards
| statvalue2 = 11,619
| statlabel3 = Receiving touchdowns
| statvalue3 = 83
| pfr = JohnCa00
| CollegeHOF = 2424
| HOF = Calvin-Johnson
}}
Calvin Johnson Jr. (born September 29, 1985) is an American former professional football player who was a wide receiver for nine seasons with the Detroit Lions of the National Football League (NFL). Nicknamed "Megatron" after the Transformers character of the same name, he is regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers of all time.{{cite web |title=Ten best receivers of all time |url=http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000642432/ten-best-receivers-of-all-time |website=National Football League |date=2016-03-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502001817/http://www.nfl.com/photoessays/0ap3000000642432/ten-best-receivers-of-all-time |archive-date=2019-05-02 |url-status=live |last1=Harrison |first1=Elliot |access-date=April 11, 2020}} He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, winning the Fred Biletnikoff Award as a junior, and was selected by the Lions second overall in the 2007 NFL draft.
Johnson was noted for having a rare combination of size (6 ft 5 in and 239 lbs), catching ability, speed (40-yard dash in 4.35 seconds), strength, leaping ability,{{cite web |title=Johnson impresses at combine |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft07/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2779980 |website=ESPN |date=2007-02-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171107062338/http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft07/columns/story?columnist=clayton_john&id=2779980 |archive-date=2017-11-07 |url-status=live |last1=Clayton |first1=John |author-link=John Clayton (sportswriter) |access-date=March 4, 2019}}{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson's Georgia Tech profile |url=http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/johnson_calvin00.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071010033933/http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/johnson_calvin00.html |archive-date=October 10, 2007 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |website=RamblinWreck.com |publisher=Georgia Tech Athletic Association}} and body control. In 2012, he set the NFL season record for receiving yards.{{cite web |title=Jerry Rice's single-season record falls to Calvin Johnson |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/12/22/jerry-rices-single-season-record-falls-to-calvin-johnson |website=ProFootballTalk |date=2012-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121223082424/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/12/22/jerry-rices-single-season-record-falls-to-calvin-johnson/ |archive-date=2012-12-23 |url-status=live |last1=Smith |first1=Michael David |access-date=December 23, 2012}}{{Cite web |title=NFL Receiving Yards Single-Season Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_yds_single_season.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121001715/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_yds_single_season.htm |archive-date=January 21, 2023 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson is also tied with Michael Irvin for 100-yard games in a season,{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson breaks NFL record for consecutive 100-yard games |url=http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/12/22/calvin-johnson-breaks-nfl-record-for-consecutive-100-yard-games/ |website=ProFootballTalk |date=2012-12-23 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121223082422/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2012/12/22/calvin-johnson-breaks-nfl-record-for-consecutive-100-yard-games/ |archive-date=2012-12-23 |url-status=live |last1=Smith |first1=Michael David |access-date=December 23, 2012}} tied with Adam Thielen for consecutive 100-yard games, and holds the record for consecutive games with 10 or more receptions. He appeared in six consecutive Pro Bowls from 2010 to 2015 and received three consecutive first-team All-Pro selections from 2011 to 2013.
While still regarded as being in his prime, Johnson retired after the 2015 season, citing a loss of passion for the game due to health concerns and the Lions' lack of overall success during his career. He was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2018 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
Early life
Johnson was born to Calvin Johnson Sr. and Arica Johnson on September 29, 1985, in Tyrone, Georgia.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson |url=http://www.nfl.com/players/profile?id=JOH088640 |website=National Football League |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110703072800/http://www.nfl.com/player/calvinjohnson/2495647/profile |archive-date=2011-07-03 |url-status=live |access-date=December 30, 2010}}{{Cite magazine |last=Alberta |first=Tim |date=June 19, 2016 |title=A Lions fan learns about fatherhood from Calvin Johnson Sr. |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2016/06/19/lions-fan-learns-about-fatherhood-calvin-johnson-sr |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116052425/https://www.si.com/nfl/2016/06/19/lions-fan-learns-about-fatherhood-calvin-johnson-sr |archive-date=November 16, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}} Johnson's mother holds a Doctor of Education. Johnson's parents stressed education in his childhood, forbidding him from playing sports if he didn't receive As and Bs in school.{{cite web |title=Education important to Calvin Johnson, including getting his degree |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/21598/education-is-important-to-calvin-johnson-including-getting-his-degree |website=ESPN |date=2016-01-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220403114857/https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/21598/education-is-important-to-calvin-johnson-including-getting-his-degree |archive-date=2022-04-03 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=April 3, 2022}}
Johnson was 6 feet tall in middle school, and 6 feet 4 inches as a sophomore in high school.{{Cite web |last=Glier |first=Ray |date=August 28, 2006 |title=Georgia Tech's star receiver just can't miss |url=https://www.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/acc/2006-08-28-gatech-johnson_x.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502051110/https://usatoday30.usatoday.com/sports/college/football/acc/2006-08-28-gatech-johnson_x.htm |archive-date=May 2, 2019 |access-date=September 17, 2007 |website=USA Today}} He attended Sandy Creek High School in Tyrone, Georgia, and was a letterman in football and a baseball standout. In football, he was a three-year starter as a wide receiver for the Patriots football team. As a sophomore, he made 34 receptions for 646 yards and 10 touchdowns. As a junior, Johnson caught 40 passes for 736 yards and eight touchdowns.{{Cite web |date=September 24, 2004 |title=Freshman Faces in the Crowd |url=http://nique.net/issues/2004-10-01/sports/7 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20041029224658/http://www.nique.net/issues/2004-10-01/sports/7 |archive-date=October 29, 2004 |access-date=May 17, 2007 |website=The Technique}} His #81 was retired on October 22, 2010.{{Cite web |date=October 22, 2010 |title=Sandy Creek to retire Calvin Johnson's number |url=http://blogs.ajc.com/georgia-high-school-sports/2010/10/22/sandy-creek-to-retire-calvin-johnsons-number/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029203043/http://blogs.ajc.com/georgia-high-school-sports/2010/10/22/sandy-creek-to-retire-calvin-johnsons-number/ |archive-date=October 29, 2013 |access-date=October 11, 2011 |website=The Atlanta Journal-Constitution|via=GHSF Daily}}
Johnson was rated among the nation's top 10 wide receivers and top 100 players by virtually every recruiting analyst. He was tabbed the No. 4 wide receiver and No. 15 player in the nation by TheInsiders.com, and named to the Super Southern 100 by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution, the Rivals 100 by Rivals.com, TheInsiders.com Hot 100, the SuperPrep All-America 275, and the Prep Star Top 100 Dream Team.
Johnson was also rated as the best player in Georgia, No. 12 in the Southeast and No. 37 in the nation by Rivals.com, the No. 7 wide receiver in the nation by SuperPrep, and first-team all-state selection (Class AAAA) by the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. Finally, he was tabbed to the AJC's preseason Super 11. By the time he was a junior, he was ranked as within the top 10 wide receivers and the top 100 players in the nation by almost every writer.
{{College athlete recruit start|year=2004|40=yes}}
{{College athlete recruit entry
| recruit = Calvin Johnson
| position = WR
| hometown = Tyrone, Georgia
| highschool = Sandy Creek HS
| feet = 6
| inches = 4
| weight = 213
| 40 = 4.27
| commitdate = January 12, 2004
| scout stars = 5
| rivals stars = 4
}}
{{College athlete recruit end
| 40 = yes
| year = 2004
| rivals ref title = 2004 Georgia Tech Football Commitment List
| scout ref title = 2004 Georgia Tech College Football Team Recruiting Prospects
| rivals school = georgiatech
| scout s = 140
| scout overall = 3 (WR); 34 (school)
| rivals overall = 6 (WR); 37 (national); 3 (GA); 50 (school)
| access-date = August 17, 2013
| archive-date =
| rivals archiveurl=
| scout archiveurl =
| espn archiveurl =
}}
College career
File:Calvin Johnson midair pass cropped.jpg
Johnson attended the Georgia Institute of Technology, where he played for head coach Chan Gailey's Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets football team from 2004 to 2006. Despite Georgia Tech being interested in his playing both football and baseball, Johnson's mother refused to allow Johnson to play both sports after determining that the year-round athletic schedule would be too demanding.{{Cite web |last=Battista |first=Judy |date=April 26, 2007 |title=Johnson Has No Baggage and a Seat in First Class |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/26/sports/football/26draft.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150705142740/http://www.nytimes.com/2007/04/26/sports/football/26draft.html |archive-date=July 5, 2015 |access-date=January 30, 2016 |website=The New York Times}}
As a freshman in 2004, Johnson was an immediate contributor. He made his collegiate debut against Samford and had two receptions for 45 receiving yards in the 28–7 victory.{{Cite web |title=Samford at Georgia Tech Box Score, September 4, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-09-04-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170723132758/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-09-04-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=July 23, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In the following game, against Clemson, he had eight receptions for 127 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns in the 28–24 victory.{{Cite web |title=Georgia Tech at Clemson Box Score, September 11, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-09-11-clemson.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722144216/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-09-11-clemson.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} On October 16, against Duke, he had six receptions for 92 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in the 24–7 victory.{{Cite web |title=Duke at Georgia Tech Box Score, October 16, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-10-16-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200623152100/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-10-16-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=June 23, 2020 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} On November 13, against Connecticut, he had six receptions for 131 receiving yards in the 30–10 victory.{{Cite web |title=Connecticut at Georgia Tech Box Score, November 13, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-11-13-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170723132640/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-11-13-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=July 23, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In the next week's game against Virginia, he had five receptions for 108 receiving yards in the 30–10 loss.{{Cite web |title=Virginia at Georgia Tech Box Score, November 20, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-11-20-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170723011834/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-11-20-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=July 23, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He ended his freshman campaign against Syracuse in the 2004 Champs Sports Bowl, where he recorded two receptions for 61 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown to go along with a rushing touchdown in the 51–14 victory.{{Cite web |title=Champs Sports Bowl – Syracuse vs Georgia Tech Box Score, December 21, 2004 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-12-21-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306042908/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2004-12-21-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Johnson was the Yellow Jackets' leading receiver with 48 catches for 837 receiving yards and seven receiving touchdowns, which were Georgia Tech freshman records.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2004 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1/gamelog/2004 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044516/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1/gamelog/2004 |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Johnson earned a first-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference (ACC) selection. He was named ACC Rookie of the Year.{{Cite web |date=December 8, 2004 |title=Johnson Named ACC Rookie of the Year |url=https://ramblinwreck.com/johnson-named-acc-rookie-of-the-year/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200109100616/https://ramblinwreck.com/johnson-named-acc-rookie-of-the-year/ |archive-date=January 9, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets |language=en-US}}
Johnson started the 2005 season with four receptions for 66 receiving yards and a receiving touchdown in a 23–14 victory over Auburn.{{Cite web |title=Georgia Tech at Auburn Box Score, September 3, 2005 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-09-03-auburn.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722144213/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-09-03-auburn.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In the next game, he had six receptions for 114 receiving yards in a 27–21 victory over North Carolina.{{Cite web |title=North Carolina at Georgia Tech Box Score, September 10, 2005 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-09-10-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722121217/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-09-10-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} The game featured Georgia Tech having two 100-yard receivers in the same game for the sixth time in school history, Johnson and Damarius Bilbo, who had 131.{{Cite web |title=2020 Georgia Tech Football Information Guide |url=https://ramblinwreck.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/2020-GT-Football-Media-Guide.pdf |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201114220710/https://ramblinwreck.com/wp-content/uploads/2020/09/2020-GT-Football-Media-Guide.pdf |archive-date=November 14, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=RamblinWreck.com}} On September 24, against Virginia Tech, he had five receptions for 123 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown in the 51–7 loss.{{Cite web |title=Georgia Tech at Virginia Tech Box Score, September 24, 2005 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-09-24-virginia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722144215/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-09-24-virginia-tech.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In the following game, against North Carolina State, he recorded a collegiate career-best ten receptions for 130 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown in the 17–14 loss.{{Cite web |title=North Carolina State at Georgia Tech Box Score, October 6, 2005 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-10-06-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722124722/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2005-10-06-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He earned first-team All-American honors for the 2005 season.{{cite web |title=Amazing or what |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/59696-amazing-or-what |website=Bleacher Report |date=2008-09-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080925091259/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/59696-amazing-or-what |archive-date=2008-09-25 |url-status=live |last1=Spain |first1=Garrett |access-date=May 1, 2020 |language=en}} He also earned All-ACC honors for the second straight year and was a semifinalist for the Fred Biletnikoff Award.{{Cite web |date=November 15, 2005 |title=Sharon Named Semifinalist For Biletnikoff Award |url=https://bgsufalcons.com/news/2005/11/15/111505aab_90.aspx |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201123194622/https://bgsufalcons.com/news/2005/11/15/111505aab_90.aspx |archive-date=November 23, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=Bowling Green State University Athletics |language=en}} He led the team with 54 catches for 888 receiving yards and six receiving touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2005 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1/gamelog/2005 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043444/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1/gamelog/2005 |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}
Johnson was named a team captain going into his junior season. He entered his 2006 season in the running for the Biletnikoff Award and Heisman Trophy. Although Johnson finished tenth in the Heisman voting, he won the Biletnikoff as the season's outstanding college football receiver.{{Cite web |title=2006 Heisman Trophy Voting |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/heisman-2006.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322180332/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/heisman-2006.html |archive-date=March 22, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Fred Biletnikoff Award Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/biletnikoff.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402120416/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/biletnikoff.html |archive-date=April 2, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} He started the season with seven receptions for 111 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown in the 14–10 loss to Notre Dame.{{Cite web |title=Notre Dame at Georgia Tech Box Score, September 2, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-09-02-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322180927/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-09-02-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=March 22, 2019 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In the following game, he had four receptions for 26 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in the 38–6 victory over Samford.{{Cite web |title=Samford at Georgia Tech Box Score, September 9, 2006 |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-09-09-georgia-tech.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170722175908/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/boxscores/2006-09-09-georgia-tech.html |archive-date=July 22, 2017 |access-date=May 1, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Against the West Virginia Mountaineers in the Toyota Gator Bowl, Johnson had nine catches for a collegiate-career best 186 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns, albeit in a 38–35 loss.{{cite web |title=Gator Bowl: Georgia Tech receiver is tops |url=http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06364/750097-144.stm |website=Pittsburgh Post-Gazette |date=2006-12-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929104620/http://www.post-gazette.com/pg/06364/750097-144.stm |archive-date=2007-09-29 |url-status=dead |last1=Finder |first1=Chuck |access-date=August 10, 2007}}{{Cite web |last=Kiper |first=Mel |date=January 1, 2007 |title=West Virginia vs. Georgia Tech: ESPN's Take |url=https://www.espn.com/college-football/bowls06/bowls?game=gator |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070213041550/http://sports.espn.go.com/ncf/bowls06/bowls?game=gator |archive-date=February 13, 2007 |access-date=August 10, 2007 |publisher=ESPN}} In the game, he passed Jonathan Smith for the school record for receiving yards in a single season and also moved past Kelly Campbell to be the school's all-time leader in receiving yards for a career.{{Cite web |last=Brimmer |first=Adam Van |date=January 1, 2007 |title=Tech's Johnson still mum on future |url=https://www.savannahnow.com/article/20070101/SPORTS/301019895 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201116111927/https://www.savannahnow.com/article/20070101/SPORTS/301019895 |archive-date=November 16, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=Savannah Morning News |language=en}} In addition, Johnson's 186 receiving yards set a school record for receiving yards in a bowl game. Johnson was honored as the ACC Player of the Year, was a first-team All-ACC selection for the third consecutive year, and was recognized as a unanimous All-American.{{Cite web |title=Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets All-America Selections |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/georgia-tech/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201112024928/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/georgia-tech/ |archive-date=November 12, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Overall, Johnson tallied 1,202 receiving yards on 76 catches.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2006 Game Log |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1/gamelog/2006 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044757/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1/gamelog/2006 |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=ACC Offensive Player of the Year Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/acc-opoy.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502001815/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/acc-opoy.html |archive-date=May 2, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=ACC Player of the Year Winners |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/acc-poy.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502001817/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/acc-poy.html |archive-date=May 2, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} Johnson's 15 receiving touchdowns were a new Georgia Tech single-season record.{{Cite web |title=ACC Leaders |url=http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/2006/Internet/conf%20stats/2006000000821PD.HTML |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070324121657/http://web1.ncaa.org/d1mfb/2006/Internet/conf%20stats/2006000000821PD.HTML |archive-date=March 24, 2007 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |website=NCAASports.com}}{{Cite web |title=Consensus All-America Teams (2000–2009) |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/all-america-2000-2009.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180314104357/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/awards/all-america-2000-2009.html |archive-date=March 14, 2018 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}} In his collegiate career, Johnson made a case for being the greatest Georgia Tech player of all time.{{Cite web |title=The Top Ranked Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Football Players of All-Time |url=http://www.ainsworthsports.com/football_player_rankings_by_college_ga_georgia_tech.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201121072430/http://www.ainsworthsports.com/football_player_rankings_by_college_ga_georgia_tech.htm |archive-date=November 21, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=AinsworthSports.com}}{{cite web |title=Georgia Tech Football: Top 5 Receivers in School History |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1050602-georgia-tech-football-top-5-all-time-receivers |website=Bleacher Report |date=2012-02-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211202213532/https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1050602-georgia-tech-football-top-5-all-time-receivers |archive-date=2021-12-02 |url-status=live |last1=Silvers |first1=Blake |access-date=November 14, 2020 |language=en}} Johnson had 178 receptions for 2,927 yards and 28 touchdowns during his time with the Yellow Jackets. He ranks first in school history in career receiving yards, second in receptions, first in touchdown receptions, and first in career 100-yard receiving games with 13.
=Statistics=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | ||||||||||
| colspan="3" style="{{CollegePrimaryStyle|Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets|color=white}}"| Calvin Johnson
! colspan="4"| Receiving ! colspan="4"| Rushing | ||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Season | Team | {{abbr|GP|Games played}} | {{abbr|Rec|Receptions}} | {{abbr|Yds|Receiving yards}} | {{abbr|Avg|Yards per reception}} | {{abbr|TD|Receiving touchdowns}} | {{abbr|Att|Rushing attempts}} | {{abbr|Yds|Rushing yards}} | {{abbr|Avg|Yards per rushing attempt}} | {{abbr|TD|Rushing touchdowns}} |
| 2004 || Georgia Tech
| 12 || 48 || 837 || 17.4 || 7 || 3 || 10 || 3.3 || 1 | ||||||||||
| 2005 || Georgia Tech
| 12 || 54 || 908 || 16.4 || 6 || 0 || 0 || 0.0 || 0 | ||||||||||
| 2006 || Georgia Tech
| 14 || 76 || 1,202 || 15.8 || 15 || 7 || 30 || 4.3 || 0 | ||||||||||
| colspan="2"|[https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/calvin-johnson-1.html Career] | 38 | 178 | 2,927 | 16.4 | 28 | 10 | 40 | 4.0 | 1 |
=School records=
- Receiving yards for a career – 2,927{{Cite web |title=Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets Receiving |url=https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/georgia-tech/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306044750/https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/schools/georgia-tech/ |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Sports Reference |language=en}}
- Receiving yards in a single season – 1,202 (2006)
- Receiving touchdowns for a career – 28
- Receiving touchdowns in a single season – 15 (2006)
- 100-yard games in a career – 13
- 100-yard games in a single season – 7 (2006)
=College awards and honors=
File:Calvin johnson Biletnikoff.jpg]]
- First-team Freshman All-American 2004
- All-American 2005 and 2006
- First-team All-Atlantic Coast Conference, 2004, 2005, and 2006
- ACC Rookie of the Year, 2004
- ACC Player of the Year, 2006
- Four-time ACC Rookie of the Week
- Biletnikoff Award, 2006
- Paul Warfield Trophy, 2006{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson says goodbye to the Lions |url=https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/3/8/10729826/calvin-johnson-megatron-retires-retirement-announcement |website=Pride Of Detroit |date=2016-03-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160514105216/http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2016/3/8/10729826/calvin-johnson-megatron-retires-retirement-announcement |archive-date=2016-05-14 |url-status=live |last1=Perfett |first1=Chris |access-date=June 17, 2022 |language=en}}
- 10th place in 2006 Heisman Trophy voting – 43 total votes (76 receptions, 1,202 yards, 15.8 avg, 15 touchdowns)
- Selected for induction into the College Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2018 |title=Calvin Johnson Selected for Induction to College Football Hall of Fame |url=http://www.ramblinwreck.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010818aab.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180119235059/http://www.ramblinwreck.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010818aab.html |archive-date=January 19, 2018 |access-date=January 19, 2018 |website=RamblinWreck.com}}
=Academic activities=
During the summer of 2006, Johnson, who majored in management with a background in building construction, was given the option of working on either constructing environmentally friendly luxury condos, or a project building solar latrines to improve sanitation in Bolivia.{{Cite news |last=Kantheti |first=Usha |date=September 22, 2006 |title=Playing locally, serving globally |url=http://www.nique.net/issues/2006-09-22/focus/1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024104618/http://www.nique.net/issues/2006-09-22/focus/1 |archive-date=October 24, 2007 |access-date=December 25, 2011 |work=The Technique}}{{Cite news |last=McRainey |first=Megan |date=August 5, 2006 |title=Students work to improve sanitation in developing countries |url=http://www.whistle.gatech.edu/archives/06/sep/05/solar_latrines.shtml |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080308210746/http://www.whistle.gatech.edu/archives/06/sep/05/solar_latrines.shtml |archive-date=March 8, 2008 |access-date=May 31, 2008 |work=The Whistle |publisher=Georgia Tech Institute Communications and Public Affairs}} Johnson chose the latter, as he wanted to help the less fortunate.{{Cite press release |title=Calvin Johnson Tackles Global Sanitation Problems |date=September 1, 2006 |publisher=Georgia Institute of Technology |url=http://www.gatech.edu/news-room/release.php?id=1115 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20060904040031/http://www.gatech.edu/news-room/release.php?id=1115 |archive-date=September 4, 2006}}http://www.news.gatech.edu/2006/09/01/calvin-johnson-tackles-global-sanitation-problems {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125112621/http://www.news.gatech.edu/2006/09/01/calvin-johnson-tackles-global-sanitation-problems |date=November 25, 2015 }} The "solar latrines" use the sun's rays to safely transform bacteria-laden waste into fertilizer.{{Cite web |title=Appropriate Technology Design Team |url=http://www.cyberbuzz.gatech.edu/ESWB/ATDT.html |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090115104515/http://www.cyberbuzz.gatech.edu/ESWB/ATDT.html |archive-date=January 15, 2009 |access-date=December 25, 2011 |publisher=Georgia Tech Cyberbuzz}}
=Legacy=
In 2016, Johnson was named to the Georgia Tech Sports Hall of Fame.{{Cite web |date=July 27, 2018 |title=Georgia Tech Sports Hall of Fame |url=https://ramblinwreck.com/georgia-tech-sports-hall-of-fame/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201119050337/https://ramblinwreck.com/georgia-tech-sports-hall-of-fame/ |archive-date=November 19, 2020 |access-date=November 14, 2020 |website=Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets |language=en-US}} He was selected for induction to the College Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility. He was part of the Class of 2018.
Professional career
Johnson was SI.com's Midseason 2007 NFL draft Projection #1 pick,{{Cite magazine |title=NFL Midseason Draft Projection: #1, Calvin Johnson |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0610/gallery.nfl.midseason.draft.proj/content.1.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070207060002/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0610/gallery.nfl.midseason.draft.proj/content.1.html |archive-date=February 7, 2007 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}} though Johnson had stated that he intended to earn his degree from Georgia Tech. On January 8, 2007, Johnson declared himself eligible for the NFL Draft, bypassing his senior season at Georgia Tech.{{Cite web |date=January 8, 2007 |title=Johnson to Enter NFL Draft |url=http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010807aab.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024140650/http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/010807aab.html |archive-date=October 24, 2007 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |website=RamblinWreck.com}}{{Cite web |last=Heerji |first=Asif |date=January 19, 2007 |title=Johnson chooses NFL |url=http://www.nique.net/issues/2007-01-19/sports/1 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929132017/http://www.nique.net/issues/2007-01-19/sports/1 |archive-date=September 29, 2007 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |website=The Technique}} He was regarded as the best athlete to come out of the draft and was the #1 player on most draft boards.{{Cite web |last=Kiper Jr. |first=Mel |author-link=Mel Kiper Jr. |date=2007-02-07 |title=Mel Kiper's Big Board |url=https://proxy.espn.com/melkiper/index.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070217162436/http://proxy.espn.go.com/melkiper/index.html |archive-date=2007-02-17 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |website=ESPN}}{{Cite web |last=Horwedel |first=Chris |date=March 13, 2007 |title=Top 200 Prospects |url=http://www.nfldraftblitz.com/top100prospects.htm |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070317173220/http://www.nfldraftblitz.com/top100prospects.htm |archive-date=March 17, 2007 |access-date=March 19, 2007 |publisher=NFL Draft Blitz}} Johnson was said by ESPN to be able to be productive as a rookie, much like receiver Randy Moss. In a mid-February workout with speed and conditioning coach Mark Pearsall, Johnson clocked a 4.33-second 40-yard dash, recorded an 11-foot standing broad jump, and had a vertical leap of 43 inches.{{Cite web |last=Stroud |first=Rick |date=February 14, 2007 |title=Georgia Tech's Johnson seen as a can't-miss WR |url=http://www.sptimes.com/2007/02/14/Bucs/Georgia_Tech_s_Johnso.shtml |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070216012157/http://www.sptimes.com/2007/02/14/Bucs/Georgia_Tech_s_Johnso.shtml |archive-date=February 16, 2007 |access-date=February 18, 2007 |website=St. Petersburg Times}}
Johnson surprised many when he weighed in at 239 pounds at the combine although he claims that this season he played "at about 235 and I got up to 238" and that his weight was not a problem. Johnson ran a 4.35 and wowed scouts with his jump drill results, his receiving skills, and his 11 ft 7 in (3.53 m) broad jump, which was the "best broad jump I can ever remember an NFL prospect having," according to Gil Brandt.{{cite web |title=Individual Workouts |url=http://www.nfl.com/draft/analysis/individual_workouts#GAtech |website=National Football League |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070316122500/http://nfl.com/draft/analysis/individual_workouts#GAtech |archive-date=2007-03-16 |url-status=live |last1=Brandt |first1=Gil |author-link=Gil Brandt |access-date=March 21, 2007}} Johnson is one of only three players (Matt Jones and Dont'e Thornton Jr) 6-foot-5 or taller, regardless of position, to run a 40-yard dash in under 4.40 seconds at the combine since 2005.{{cite web |title=Matt Jones {{!}} Combine Results {{!}} TE – Arkansas |url=https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?i=7163 |website=nflcombineresults.com |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027041734/https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?i=7163 |archive-date=2022-10-27 |url-status=live |access-date=October 27, 2022 |language=en-US}}
Johnson was selected by the Detroit Lions in the first round as the second pick overall in the 2007 NFL draft.{{Cite news |date=April 28, 2007 |title=Johnson Goes to Detroit with No. 2 Pick |url=http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042807aaa.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070502021546/http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/spec-rel/042807aaa.html |archive-date=May 2, 2007 |access-date=April 29, 2007 |work=RamblinWreck.com |publisher=Georgia Tech Alumni Association}}{{Cite news |last=Householder |first=Mike |date=April 29, 2007 |title=Lions Go On Offense With WR Johnson, QB Stanton |url=http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/myfox/pages/Sports/Detail?contentId=3059197&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=6.1.1 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070928060148/http://www.myfoxdetroit.com/myfox/pages/Sports/Detail?contentId=3059197&version=1&locale=EN-US&layoutCode=TSTY&pageId=6.1.1 |archive-date=September 28, 2007 |access-date=April 29, 2007 |work=Fox 2 News Detroit}}{{cite news |title=Lions' catch is definite keeper |url=http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070429/SPORTS01/704290631/1049 |date=2007-04-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929111832/http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20070429%2FSPORTS01%2F704290631%2F1049 |archive-date=2007-09-29 |url-status=dead |work=Detroit Free Press |last1=Cotsonika |first1=Nicholas |access-date=April 29, 2007}} This is the highest a Georgia Tech Yellow Jacket has ever been drafted. The Lions were expected to trade Johnson, most likely to the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, but the team announced that they were keeping him.{{Cite magazine |date=April 29, 2007 |title=Top 10 Draft Surprises: The Lions don't trade Calvin Johnson |url=http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0704/Draft_Surprises_Top10/content.4.html |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070509145805/http://sportsillustrated.cnn.com/multimedia/photo_gallery/0704/Draft_Surprises_Top10/content.4.html |archive-date=May 9, 2007 |access-date=April 30, 2007 |magazine=Sports Illustrated}} The next day, the Detroit Tigers invited him to throw out the ceremonial first pitch.{{cite web |title=Lions' draft pick wide receiver Calvin Johnson on team cam |url=http://images.nfl.com/video/homepage/2006/0429-3.ram |website=National Football League |date=2007-04-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070703230937/http://images.nfl.com/video/homepage/2006/0429-3.ram |archive-date=2007-07-03 |url-status=live |access-date=April 30, 2007}}{{Cite news |last=Kowalski |first=Tom |date=April 29, 2007 |title=Calvin Johnson to throw first pitch at Tigers game |url=http://blog.mlive.com/lionsinsider/2007/04/calvin_johnson_to_throw_first.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150526030325/http://blog.mlive.com/lionsinsider/2007/04/calvin_johnson_to_throw_first.html |archive-date=May 26, 2015 |access-date=May 5, 2007 |work=Lions Insider}}
{{NFL predraft
| height ft = 6
| height in = 5
| weight = 239
| dash = 4.35
| ten split = 1.55
| twenty split = 2.58
| shuttle =
| cone drill =
| vertical = 42.5
| broad ft = 11
| broad in = 7
| bench =
| wonderlic = 41
| arm span = 36
| hand span = 9 3/4
| note = All values from NFL Combine and Pro Day{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson Draft and Combine Prospect Profile |url=https://www.nfl.com/prospects/calvin-johnson/32004a4f-4808-8640-9018-78116bc333f2 |website=National Football League |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907101007/https://www.nfl.com/prospects/calvin-johnson/32004a4f-4808-8640-9018-78116bc333f2 |archive-date=2022-09-07 |url-status=live |access-date=September 7, 2022}}{{Cite web |title=2007 Draft Scout Calvin Johnson, Georgia Tech NFL Draft Scout College Football Profile |url=https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=32991&DraftYear=2007 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220907101008/https://draftscout.com/dsprofile.php?PlayerId=32991&DraftYear=2007 |archive-date=September 7, 2022 |access-date=November 28, 2018 |website=draftscout.com}}{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson, Combine Results, WR – Georgia Tech |url=https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?i=7701 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210809225923/https://nflcombineresults.com/playerpage.php?i=7701 |archive-date=August 9, 2021 |access-date=August 9, 2021 |website=nflcombineresults.com}}
}}
=Detroit Lions=
==2007 season==
{{see also|2007 Detroit Lions season}}
Johnson attended Reebok's NFL Rookie Premiere in Los Angeles.{{cite web |title=Dungy concerned about rookies missing minicamp |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=2874954 |website=ESPN |date=2007-05-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071007222251/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/news/story?id=2874954 |archive-date=2007-10-07 |url-status=live |last1=Pasquarelli |first1=Len |access-date=August 28, 2008}} The Lions, being told by the league that Johnson would have to skip the minicamp to attend, rescheduled the camp to accommodate Johnson.{{Cite web |last=Smith |first=Michael David |date=May 20, 2007 |title=Lions Move Minicamp So Calvin Johnson Can Participate |url=http://www.aolsportsblog.com/2007/05/20/lions-move-minicamp-so-calvin-johnson-can-participate/ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070523123010/http://www.aolsportsblog.com/2007/05/20/lions-move-minicamp-so-calvin-johnson-can-participate/ |archive-date=May 23, 2007 |access-date=May 21, 2007 |website=The Fanhouse |publisher=AOL Sports}} On August 3, 2007, Johnson signed a six-year deal with the Detroit Lions after holding out for eight days, and passed his physical in time to be on the field for the start of that morning's practice.{{Cite web |date=August 3, 2007 |title=Lions Sign First-Round Draft Pick WR Calvin Johnson |url=http://www.detroitlions.com/document_display.cfm?document_id=458576 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070819143533/http://www.detroitlions.com/document_display.cfm?document_id=458576 |archive-date=August 19, 2007 |access-date=August 25, 2007 |website=Detroit Lions}}{{Cite web |last=Cotsonika |first=Nicholas |date=August 3, 2007 |title=Lions sign WR Calvin Johnson |url=http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070803/BLOG21/70803021/0/BUSINESS01 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20070929104431/http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20070803%2FBLOG21%2F70803021%2F0%2FBUSINESS01 |archive-date=September 29, 2007 |access-date=August 3, 2007 |website=Detroit Free Press}}{{cite web |title=Lions sign No. 2 pick WR Johnson |url=http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/DET/10279736 |website=National Football League |date=2007-08-03 |archive-url=https://archive.today/20071221144903/http://www.nfl.com/teams/story/DET/10279736 |archive-date=2007-12-21 |url-status=live |access-date=August 3, 2007}} He was represented by agent James "Bus" Cook. The contract was worth up to {{US$|64 million|link=yes}}, with {{$|27.2 million}}27.2 in guaranteed money, making Johnson the highest-paid player in Lions history (since passed by quarterback Matthew Stafford and defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh) and the highest-paid receiver (in guaranteed money) in the NFL.{{cite web |title=Lions confirm Ndamukong Suh deal |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/trainingcamp10/news/story?id=5436455 |website=ESPN |date=2010-08-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20100806001911/http://sports.espn.go.com/nfl/trainingcamp10/news/story?id=5436455 |archive-date=2010-08-06 |url-status=live |access-date=August 5, 2010 |agency=Associated Press}}
Although he did not start the game, Johnson had an impressive NFL debut on Sunday, September 9, 2007, catching four passes for 70 yards and his first career touchdown in Detroit's 36–21 win over the Oakland Raiders.{{Cite news |last=Hummer |first=Steve |date=September 10, 2007 |title=Johnson takes it all in stride in Lions debut |url=http://www.ajc.com/wireless/content/sports/gatech/stories/2007/09/09/johnson_0910.html |access-date=September 11, 2007 |work=Atlanta Journal-Constitution}}{{dead link|date=June 2020|bot=medic}}{{cbignore|bot=medic}} [http://www.calvinjohnsononline.com/calvin-johnson-news09112007.php Alt URL] {{Webarchive|url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120426072127/http://www.calvinjohnsononline.com/calvin-johnson-news09112007.php |date=April 26, 2012 }}{{cite news |title=Williams saves TD ball for Johnson |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2007/09/williams_saves_td_ball_for_joh.html |date=2007-09-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121012012523/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2007/09/williams_saves_td_ball_for_joh.html |archive-date=2012-10-12 |url-status=live |work=The Grand Rapids Press |last1=VanOchten |first1=Brian |publisher=MLive |access-date=September 11, 2007}}{{cite news |title=Lion Calvin Johnson focuses on the game, rookie of the year, not the hype |url=http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=/20070909/SPORTS01/709090597 |date=2007-09-09 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024025039/http://www.freep.com/apps/pbcs.dll/article?AID=%2F20070909%2FSPORTS01%2F709090597 |archive-date=2007-10-24 |url-status=dead |work=Detroit Free Press |last1=Cotsonika |first1=Nicholas J |access-date=September 11, 2007}} He sustained a lower back injury after making a catch over two Philadelphia Eagles defenders on September 23, 2007.{{cite web |title=Lions check themselves after blowout loss in Philadelphia |url=http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/michigan/index.ssf?/base/sports-25/1190675347149820.xml&storylist=newsmichigan |website=MLive |date=2007-09-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20071024142314/http://www.mlive.com/newsflash/michigan/index.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fsports-25%2F1190675347149820.xml&storylist=newsmichigan |archive-date=2007-10-24 |url-status=live |access-date=September 24, 2007 |agency=Associated Press}} He scored his first and only professional rushing touchdown against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers on October 21, 2007, on a 32-yard reverse play in the 23–16 victory.{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions – October 21st, 2007 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200710210det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115065151/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200710210det.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Fellow teammate and wide receiver Roy Williams nicknamed Johnson "Megatron", due to his large hands being similar to that of the towering Decepticon.{{cite news |title=Calvin Johnson shows why Lions made him No. 2 pick in the draft |url=https://www.espn.com/espn/wire?section=nfl&id=3073859 |date=2007-10-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141129055520/http://sports.espn.go.com/espn/wire?section=nfl&id=3073859 |archive-date=2014-11-29 |url-status=live |work=ESPN |publisher=Associated Press |access-date=November 21, 2014}}{{cite web |title=Lions atwitter over Seahawk Richard Sherman's new handle |url=http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/lions-atwitter-over-seahawk-richard-shermans-new-handle/ |website=The Seattle Times |date=2012-10-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160105181348/http://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/lions-atwitter-over-seahawk-richard-shermans-new-handle/ |archive-date=2016-01-05 |url-status=live |access-date=November 30, 2014}} The nickname caught on well with fans. Williams later changed the nickname to "Bolt" after Jamaican sprinting phenom Usain Bolt, comparing the two athletes' similar height and running abilities.{{cite news |title=Lions' Williams not jealous of Calvin Johnson |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2008/08/lions_williams_not_jealous_of.html |date=2007-08-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080828191333/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2008/08/lions_williams_not_jealous_of.html |archive-date=2008-08-28 |url-status=live |work=MLive |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=September 3, 2008}} Johnson finished the 2007 season with 48 receptions for 756 yards and five total touchdowns.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson, WR for the Detroit Lions |url=http://www.nfl.com/player/calvinjohnson/2495647/profile |website=National Football League |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190423012203/http://www.nfl.com/player/calvinjohnson/2495647/profile |archive-date=2019-04-23 |url-status=live |access-date=December 27, 2011}} He was named to the NFL All-Rookie Team.{{Cite web |title=2007 NFL All-Rookie Team |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2007.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180316023400/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/nfl-all-rookie-2007.htm |archive-date=March 16, 2018 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
In 2008, Johnson said he could "still feel" the lower-back injury that bothered him throughout his rookie season. Johnson took five weeks off after the 2007 season and was taking part in the Lions' offseason program. "I know it's there but it doesn't hurt," he said.{{cite web |title=Lions' Johnson: Back injury lingered all season |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2008/04/lions_johnson_back_injury_ling.html |website=MLive |date=2008-04-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080423205511/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2008/04/lions_johnson_back_injury_ling.html |archive-date=2008-04-23 |url-status=live |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=May 31, 2008}} Johnson revealed that he needed Vicodin to play through the final three months of the 2007 season. He needed the medication to help him play with a bone bruise in his back. "I was on meds the rest of the season," he said. "I was taking Vicodin twice a game just to get through the game. I stayed hurt the whole season, probably because I was trying to come back too soon."{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson ready for big numbers |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/stories/index.ssf?/base/sports-0/1208664303217070.xml&coll=6 |website=MLive |date=2008-04-20 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080621221613/http://www.mlive.com/lions/stories/index.ssf?%2Fbase%2Fsports-0%2F1208664303217070.xml&coll=6 |archive-date=2008-06-21 |url-status=dead |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=May 31, 2008}}
==2008 season==
{{see also|2008 Detroit Lions season}}
Johnson and the Lions faced the Atlanta Falcons on the road on September 7, 2008, in the season opener at the Georgia Dome.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Atlanta Falcons – September 7th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200809070atl.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043351/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200809070atl.htm |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} As the official starting wide receiver behind Roy Williams, Johnson led the team in receptions and yards, collecting seven catches for 107 yards, which included one 38-yard catch-and-run in the Lions' 34–21 loss.{{cite web |title=Falcons QB Ryan, RB Turner shine in debuts vs. Lions |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280907001 |website=ESPN |date=2008-09-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121024143018/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=280907001 |archive-date=2012-10-24 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 27, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}} During week 2 versus the Green Bay Packers, he had two key touchdowns late in the game, which sparked a large comeback, though the Lions eventually lost the game, 48–25. Both touchdown catches included a run after the catch (the first catch going for 38 yards and the second going for 47 yards, both over the middle) displaying Johnson's speed and breakaway ability. He ended the game with six receptions for 129 yards and two touchdowns.{{cite web |title=Lions first NFL team to finish 0–16 |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281228009 |website=ESPN |date=2008-12-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121023062940/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281228009 |archive-date=2012-10-23 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 27, 2011}} In the following two games, losses to San Francisco and Chicago, Johnson failed to score a touchdown or gain over 50 yards receiving.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers – September 21st, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200809210sfo.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306060043/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200809210sfo.htm |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – October 5th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200810050det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306060021/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200810050det.htm |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} However, against the Minnesota Vikings, Johnson had four receptions for 85 yards and his third touchdown of the season.{{cite web |title=Jackson fills in for injured Frerotte, leads Vikings to win |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281207008 |website=ESPN |date=2008-12-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121021220150/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281207008 |archive-date=2012-10-21 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 27, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}}
On October 14, before the week 6 trade deadline, Roy Williams was traded to the Dallas Cowboys for a first, a third and a seventh-round pick in the 2009 NFL draft, making Johnson the Lions' starting wide receiver and the last big threat on the offense.{{Cite web |last=Yuille |first=Sean |date=October 15, 2008 |title=More on the Roy Williams Trade |url=http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2008/10/15/635510/more-on-the-roy-williams-t |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081018145659/http://www.prideofdetroit.com/2008/10/15/635510/more-on-the-roy-williams-t |archive-date=October 18, 2008 |access-date=October 22, 2008 |website=Pride of Detroit}} In his first game without Roy Williams alongside him in the week 7 game against the Houston Texans, Johnson caught only two passes, totaling 154 yards receiving; the first pass did not come until quarterback Dan Orlovsky threw a pass up for grabs at the end of the first half which Johnson caught for 58 yards and the second pass came on a 96-yard touchdown catch-and-run.{{cite web |title=Slaton, Daniels combine for 4 TDs as Texans hold off Lions |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281019034 |website=ESPN |date=2008-10-19 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121104175751/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=281019034 |archive-date=2012-11-04 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 27, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}} With Williams gone and starting quarterback Jon Kitna lost to injury for the season, the Texans defense had little to do to stop the Lions' offense but shut down Johnson, winning the game 28–21.{{Cite news |last=Duncan |first=Chris |date=October 20, 2008 |title=Texans' Johnson leads Houston past winless Detroit |url=http://archives.chicagotribune.com/2008/oct/20/local/chi-ap-fbn-lions-texansfolo |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090113153638/http://archives.chicagotribune.com/2008/oct/20/local/chi-ap-fbn-lions-texansfolo |archive-date=January 13, 2009 |access-date=October 22, 2008 |work=Chicago Tribune}}
Johnson set a career-high for receptions in a game during the Week-9 match-up against the Lions' division rivals, the Chicago Bears, with eight receptions that garnered 94 yards and one touchdown, but still lost the game 27–23.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears – November 2nd, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811020chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306042822/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811020chi.htm |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} During week 10, formerly retired All-Pro quarterback Daunte Culpepper was signed to a one-year contract with the Lions in hopes to spur the offense and earned the starting job for the next two games.{{cite web |title=Culpepper agrees to two-year deal with Lions |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3676865 |website=ESPN |date=2008-11-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617194128/https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3676865 |archive-date=2022-06-17 |url-status=live |last1=Clayton |first1=John |access-date=June 17, 2022 |language=en}} Johnson ended his first game with Culpepper at quarterback with two receptions for 92 yards in a 38–14 loss to the Jacksonville Jaguars.{{Cite web |title=Jacksonville Jaguars at Detroit Lions – November 9th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811090det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412154714/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200811090det.htm |archive-date=April 12, 2019 |access-date=June 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} During the week 14 match-up against the division rival Minnesota Vikings, Johnson passed the 1,000-yard receiving mark for the first time in his career after collecting three catches for 84 yards and one touchdown, ending the week with 1,055 yards receiving and nine touchdowns on the season.{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions – December 7th, 2008 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200812070det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043640/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/200812070det.htm |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Johnson and the 2008 Detroit Lions finished the first ever 0–16 season in NFL history after a 31–21 loss to the Green Bay Packers in week 17. Despite the Lions' failures and the fact that five different quarterbacks played during the year, Johnson finished as one of the strongest wide receivers statistically for the 2008 season, finishing fifth in receiving yards (1,331) and 7th in receiving yards per game (83.2), and leading the league in receiving touchdowns (12), despite the fact that the entire Lions team only passed for 18 touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=2008 NFL Receiving |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/receiving.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20171110225251/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2008/receiving.htm |archive-date=November 10, 2017 |access-date=June 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson became the first Lion to lead the NFL in receiving touchdowns since Terry Barr in 1963.{{Cite web |title=NFL Receiving Touchdowns Year-by-Year Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_td_year_by_year.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181012014621/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_td_year_by_year.htm |archive-date=October 12, 2018 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} However, Johnson missed the Pro Bowl, with most experts attributing the snub to the Lions' dismal winless season.{{cite web |title=Lions' Pro Bowl snub isn't all that surprising |url=http://www.freep.com/article/20081217/SPORTS01/81217056/1049/SPORTS01 |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2008-12-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121005092253/http://www.freep.com/article/20081217/SPORTS01/81217056/1049/SPORTS01 |archive-date=2012-10-05 |url-status=live |last1=Samuelsen |first1=Jamie |access-date=March 14, 2018}}
==2009 season==
{{see also|2009 Detroit Lions season}}
After 2008, Detroit's front office and coaching personnel were essentially overhauled by the team ownership. Matt Millen, the team's incumbent general manager and CEO since 2001, was terminated on September 24, 2008.{{cite web |title=Millen fired, Lions to go through 'a comprehensive evaluation' in offseason |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2008/09/millen_fired_lions_to_go_throu.html |website=MLive |date=2008-09-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315133340/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2008/09/millen_fired_lions_to_go_throu.html |archive-date=2018-03-15 |url-status=live |last1=Kowalski |first1=Tom |access-date=March 14, 2018}} Head coach Rod Marinelli was fired in the offseason.{{cite web |title=Lions turn to Schwartz as coach |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3835911 |website=ESPN |date=2009-01-16 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315133218/http://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3835911 |archive-date=2018-03-15 |url-status=live |last1=Mortensen |first1=Chris |access-date=March 14, 2018 |agency=Associated Press}} Marinelli was replaced by Jim Schwartz, then defensive coordinator of the Tennessee Titans.{{cite web |title=Marinelli fired after historic 0–16 season |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3797433 |website=ESPN |date=2008-12-29 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315133240/http://www.espn.com/nfl/news/story?id=3797433 |archive-date=2018-03-15 |url-status=live |access-date=March 14, 2018 |agency=Associated Press}} Schwartz ultimately revamped the entire Detroit offensive (and defensive) philosophies{{nsmdns}}hiring Scott Linehan and Gunther Cunningham, respectively.{{cite web |title=2009 Detroit Lions Coaching Staff |url=http://www.detroitlions.com/document_display.cfm?document_id=480918 |website=Detroit Lions |date=2009-02-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20090307213038/http://www.detroitlions.com/document_display.cfm?document_id=480918 |archive-date=2009-03-07 |url-status=live |access-date=March 14, 2018}} Detroit held the first pick in the 2009 NFL draft, and selected quarterback Matthew Stafford out of the University of Georgia.{{cite web |title=Georgia's Stafford goes first overall |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/draft09/news/story?id=4099897 |website=ESPN |date=2009-04-26 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180315070718/http://www.espn.com/nfl/draft09/news/story?id=4099897 |archive-date=2018-03-15 |url-status=live |access-date=March 14, 2018 |agency=Associated Press}} Stafford was named the team's starting quarterback out of training camp, but he battled various injuries throughout the season. Much of the 2008 Detroit roster was released by the new regime, and the 2009 team was viewed as somewhat of a work-in-progress and eventually finished with a 2–14 record.{{Cite web |title=2009 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2009.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129140454/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2009.htm |archive-date=January 29, 2018 |access-date=June 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson finished the 2009 season with 67 receptions, 984 yards, and five touchdowns, while missing two games.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2009 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2009/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617192928/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2009/ |archive-date=June 17, 2022 |access-date=June 17, 2022 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2010 season==
{{see also|2010 Detroit Lions season}}In the season opener against the Chicago Bears, Johnson caught a pass with 31 seconds left in regulation in the end zone for what looked like a game-winning touchdown. However, referee Gene Steratore ruled the catch incomplete, saying that Johnson had not maintained possession of the ball through the entire process of the catch. The Lions lost the game by a score of 19–14.{{cite web |title=Bears escape Lions, but not without controversy |url=http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/39133760/ns/sports-nfl/ |website=NBC Sports |date=2010-09-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20101115072945/http://nbcsports.msnbc.com/id/39133760/ns/sports-nfl |archive-date=2010-11-15 |url-status=dead |last1=Seligman |first1=Andrew |access-date=September 29, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}} In week 6, against the New York Giants, he had five receptions for 146 yards and one receiving touchdown in the 28–20 loss.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at New York Giants – October 17th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201010170nyg.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115081001/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201010170nyg.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 23, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 8, against the Washington Redskins, he had nine receptions for 101 receiving yards and three receiving touchdowns in the 37–25 victory.{{Cite web |title=Washington Redskins at Detroit Lions – October 31st, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201010310det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115081209/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201010310det.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 23, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 10, against the Buffalo Bills, he had ten receptions for 128 receiving yards and one receiving touchdown in the 14–12 loss.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Buffalo Bills – November 14th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201011140buf.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115081433/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201011140buf.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 23, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Bills game was the beginning of a four-game streak for Johnson where he recorded a receiving touchdown. In week 15, against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he had ten receptions for 152 receiving yards in the 23–20 victory.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Tampa Bay Buccaneers – December 19th, 2010 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201012190tam.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201115082112/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201012190tam.htm |archive-date=November 15, 2020 |access-date=November 23, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Johnson amassed 77 receptions for 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns during the 2010 season.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2010 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2010 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190730122608/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2010/ |archive-date=July 30, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He was selected to the first Pro Bowl of his career.{{cite web |title=2011 Pro Bowl rosters |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/2011-pro-bowl-rosters-09000d5d81d470fb |website=National Football League |date=2010-12-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110224231639/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/09000d5d81d470fb/article/2011-pro-bowl-rosters |archive-date=2011-02-24 |url-status=live |access-date=September 29, 2011}} Following the 2010 season, Johnson was the recipient of the Lions/Detroit Sports Broadcasters Association/Pro Football Writers Association (Detroit Chapter) Media-Friendly Good Guy Award. Johnson was ranked 27th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2011.{{Cite web |title=2011 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2011-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190102143022/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2011-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=January 2, 2019 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}File:Calvin Johnson vs Green Bay.jpg
==2011 season==
{{see also|2011 Detroit Lions season}}
In 2011, Johnson had his second best statistical season of his NFL career, reaching a then career-high 1,681 receiving yards and 16 touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2011/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112200334/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2011/ |archive-date=January 12, 2021 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 4 against the Dallas Cowboys, Johnson helped rally the Lions from a 24-point deficit to a 34–30 victory by catching two touchdown passes in the fourth quarter, including a famous catch in which Johnson beat the Cowboys' triple coverage in the end zone.{{cite web |title=Lions stay unbeaten as turnovers, Calvin Johnson-fueled rally bury Cowboys |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311002006 |website=ESPN |date=2011-10-02 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111110192330/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311002006 |archive-date=2011-11-10 |url-status=dead |access-date=November 13, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}} This performance gave Johnson eight touchdown receptions through the first four games of the season and tied Cris Carter for most consecutive games with multiple touchdown receptions with four. In a week 15 game against the Oakland Raiders, Johnson had nine receptions for 214 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in the 28–27 victory.{{cite web |title=Matt Stafford leads 4th quarter rally as Lions take down Raiders |url=http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311218013 |website=ESPN |date=2011-12-18 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120108085354/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311218013 |archive-date=2012-01-08 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 19, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}} He joined Cloyce Box as the only players in franchise history to record at least 200 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in the same game.{{Cite web |date=November 8, 2020 |title=Players with at least 200 receiving yards and two receiving touchdowns in the same game, Detroit Lions |url=https://ctxt.io/2/AACgQJoCEQ |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108050004/https://ctxt.io/2/AACgQJoCEQ |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Context}} Johnson and the Lions clinched a playoff spot for the first time since 1999, and the first time in Johnson's career, after a 38–10 beating of the San Diego Chargers on Christmas Eve.{{cite web |title=Lions bounce Chargers in romp to clinch 1st playoff berth since 1999 |url=http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311224008 |website=ESPN |date=2011-12-24 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120128100548/http://espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=311224008 |archive-date=2012-01-28 |url-status=dead |access-date=December 25, 2011 |agency=Associated Press}} In a week 17 game against the Green Bay Packers, Johnson had 11 receptions for a then career-best 244 receiving yards in a 45–41 loss.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers – January 1st, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201010gnb.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170829080513/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201010gnb.htm |archive-date=August 29, 2017 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson finished the season with 96 receptions for a league-leading 1,681 receiving yards and 16 receiving touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2011 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2011/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210112200334/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2011/ |archive-date=January 12, 2021 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=2011 NFL Leaders and Leaderboards |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2011/leaders.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200331234501/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2011/leaders.htm |archive-date=March 31, 2020 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson became the first Lion to lead the league in receiving yards since Pat Studstill in 1966.{{Cite web |title=NFL Receiving Yards Year-by-Year Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_yds_year_by_year.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130612231045/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/rec_yds_year_by_year.htm |archive-date=June 12, 2013 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Lions finished with a 10–6 record, finished second in the NFC North, and earned a playoff berth.{{Cite web |title=2011 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2011.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129140444/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2011.htm |archive-date=January 29, 2018 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Detroit found themselves on the road again in a 2012 NFC Wild Card game against the heavily favored New Orleans Saints in the playoffs. Always tough to play against at the Superdome, the Saints wore down the Detroit defense and New Orleans would go on to a win by a score of 45–28. In the game, Johnson caught 12 passes for 211 receiving yards and two touchdowns{{nsmdns}}breaking Detroit's playoff record of 150 receiving yards in a playoff game previously held by Brett Perriman and Leonard Thompson.{{Cite web |title=Wild Card – Detroit Lions at New Orleans Saints – January 7th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201070nor.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190205131741/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201070nor.htm |archive-date=February 5, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions — Eighteen things to know about Calvin Johnson's career |url=http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160308/detroit-lions-x2014-eighteen-things-to-know-about-calvin-johnsons-career |website=The Oakland Press |date=2016-03-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160311173231/http://www.theoaklandpress.com/sports/20160308/detroit-lions-x2014-eighteen-things-to-know-about-calvin-johnsons-career |archive-date=2016-03-11 |url-status=live |last1=Pasche |first1=Paula |access-date=March 14, 2018}} Johnson was ranked third by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2012.{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2012-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190322201849/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2012-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=March 22, 2019 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2012 season==
File:Detroit Lions receiver Calvin Johnson in 2012.jpg
{{see also|2012 Detroit Lions season}}
On March 14, 2012, Johnson signed an eight-year extension worth {{US$|132 million}} with the Detroit Lions, with {{US$|60 million}} guaranteed, making Johnson the highest-paid receiver in the league.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson signs $132-million deal, biggest NFL contract ever |url=https://www.latimes.com/sports/la-xpm-2012-mar-14-la-sp-sn-calvin-johnson-20120314-story.html |website=Los Angeles Times |date=2012-03-14 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220617192449/https://www.latimes.com/sports/la-xpm-2012-mar-14-la-sp-sn-calvin-johnson-20120314-story.html |archive-date=2022-06-17 |url-status=live |last1=Schilken |first1=Chuck |access-date=June 17, 2022 |language=en-US}} Johnson beat out 42 other players and eliminated quarterback Cam Newton to win the Madden NFL 13 cover athlete on April 25, 2012, on SportsNation.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson wins Madden vote |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/7855439/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-wins-madden-13-cover-vote-cam-newton |website=ESPN |date=2012-04-25 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120428115022/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/7855439/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-wins-madden-13-cover-vote-cam-newton |archive-date=2012-04-28 |url-status=live |access-date=May 6, 2012 |agency=Associated Press}} Johnson started off the season with six receptions for 111 yards in a 27–23 victory over the St. Louis Rams.{{Cite web |title=St. Louis Rams at Detroit Lions – September 9th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209090det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412154851/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209090det.htm |archive-date=April 12, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 3, against the Tennessee Titans, he had 10 receptions for 164 yards and a touchdown in the 44–41 loss.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Tennessee Titans – September 23rd, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209230oti.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412172109/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201209230oti.htm |archive-date=April 12, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 6, against the Philadelphia Eagles, he had six receptions for 135 yards in the 26–23 victory.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Philadelphia Eagles – October 14th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201210140phi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412220745/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201210140phi.htm |archive-date=April 12, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the stretch from week 9 to week 14, he recorded five consecutive games with 125 receiving yards or more, which tied the NFL record held by Pat Studstill in the 1966 season.{{Cite web |title=Pat Studstill 1966 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/StudPa00.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140130063646/http://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/S/StudPa00.htm |archive-date=January 30, 2014 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{cite web |title=Lions' Calvin Johnson Defies Description |url=https://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/04/sports/football/lions-calvin-johnson-defies-description.html |website=The New York Times |date=2012-12-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150526031359/http://www.nytimes.com/2012/12/04/sports/football/lions-calvin-johnson-defies-description.html |archive-date=2015-05-26 |url-status=live |last1=Hoffman |first1=Benjamin |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en-US}} In that stretch were performances of 207 yards and a touchdown in a 34–24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings and 171 yards and a touchdown in a 35–33 loss to the Indianapolis Colts.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Minnesota Vikings – November 11th, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201211110min.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180224121628/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201211110min.htm |archive-date=February 24, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Indianapolis Colts at Detroit Lions – December 2nd, 2012 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201212020det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200423084646/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201212020det.htm |archive-date=April 23, 2020 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the Colts game, Johnson was targeted a career-high 20 times. On December 22, against the Atlanta Falcons, Johnson broke Jerry Rice's single-season receiving yards record of 1,848 yards.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson sets single-season receiving yards record |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/calvin-johnson-sets-single-season-receiving-yards-record-0ap1000000115024 |website=National Football League |date=2012-12-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121231014551/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap1000000115024/article/calvin-johnson-sets-singleseason-receiving-yards-record |archive-date=2012-12-31 |url-status=live |access-date=December 22, 2012}} Johnson was also named a starter for the NFC in the Pro Bowl played in Honolulu, Hawaii.{{cite web |title=2013 Pro Bowl rosters: AFC, NFC |url=http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap1000000117432/article/2013-pro-bowl-rosters-afc-nfc |website=National Football League |date=2012-12-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121230023448/http://www.nfl.com/probowl/story/0ap1000000117432/article/2013-pro-bowl-rosters-afc-nfc |archive-date=2012-12-30 |url-status=live |access-date=December 28, 2012}} Johnson finished with five receptions for 72 yards against the Chicago Bears in week 17, missing out on 2,000 receiving yards by 36.{{Cite web |last=Trister |first=Noah |date=December 30, 2012 |title=Bears Beat Lions 26–24 But Miss Playoffs |url=https://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/30/bears-lions-26-24-stay-in-playoff-race_n_2385520.html |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130103034838/http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/12/30/bears-lions-26-24-stay-in-playoff-race_n_2385520.html |archive-date=January 3, 2013 |access-date=December 30, 2012 |website=The Huffington Post}} Johnson finished the season leading the league in receptions (122) and receiving yards (1,964).{{Cite web |title=2012 NFL Leaders and Leaderboards |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/leaders.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201230122519/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2012/leaders.htm |archive-date=December 30, 2020 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |last=Mayer |first=Larry |date=January 7, 2013 |title=Reviewing Bears season by the numbers |url=http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Reviewing-Bears-season-by-the-numbers/527155e6-2790-458c-a3df-c26aaf2c136c |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141006093201/http://www.chicagobears.com/news/article-1/Reviewing-Bears-season-by-the-numbers/527155e6-2790-458c-a3df-c26aaf2c136c |archive-date=October 6, 2014 |access-date=January 7, 2013 |website=Chicago Bears}} Johnson became the only player in the Super Bowl era (since 1967) to average 120 yards per game in a season, when he averaged 122.8 yards per game in 2012. Johnson was ranked third by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2013.{{Cite web |title=2013 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2013-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200406154219/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2013-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=April 6, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2013 season==
{{see also|2013 Detroit Lions season}}
After a slow start to the 2013 season in week 1 against the Minnesota Vikings, Johnson had six receptions for 116 yards and two touchdowns in a 25–21 loss to the Arizona Cardinals.{{Cite web |title=Minnesota Vikings at Detroit Lions – September 8th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309080det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170811183350/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309080det.htm |archive-date=August 11, 2017 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Arizona Cardinals – September 15th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309150crd.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181030025915/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309150crd.htm |archive-date=October 30, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the following game, against the Washington Redskins, he had seven receptions for 115 receiving yards and a touchdown in the 27–20 victory.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Washington Redskins – September 22nd, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309220was.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181203020746/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201309220was.htm |archive-date=December 3, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 7, against the Cincinnati Bengals, he had nine receptions for 155 yards and two receiving touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Cincinnati Bengals at Detroit Lions – October 20th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310200det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226040157/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310200det.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On October 27, in a 31–30 win over the Dallas Cowboys, Johnson caught a career-high 14 of 16 passes thrown in his direction; he finished the game with a career-high 329 receiving yards and one touchdown.{{Cite web |title=Dallas Cowboys at Detroit Lions – October 27th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310270det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226040224/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201310270det.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In addition to breaking the Lions' franchise record of 302 receiving yards set by Cloyce Box on December 3, 1950, it was the highest receiving yardage ever in a regulation-length game and the second-highest overall single-game yardage in NFL history, behind Flipper Anderson's 336-yard performance in a 1989 overtime win. Anderson accumulated 40 of those yards in overtime.{{cite web |title=Johnson's massive day lifts the Lions |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/2403/johnsons-massive-day-lifts-the-lions |website=ESPN |date=2013-10-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131028110030/http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/2403/johnsons-massive-day-lifts-the-lions |archive-date=2013-10-28 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=October 29, 2013}} In this same game, Johnson tied Lance Alworth for the most career games with at least 200 yards receiving with five.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson leads Lions to victory in an NFL classic |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/10/27/calvin-johnson-leads-lions-to-victory-in-an-nfl-classic/ |website=ProFootballTalk |date=2013-10-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190209200208/https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2013/10/27/calvin-johnson-leads-lions-to-victory-in-an-nfl-classic/ |archive-date=2019-02-09 |url-status=live |last1=Smith |first1=Michael David |access-date=April 11, 2020 |language=en-US}} In week 10 against the Chicago Bears, Johnson had six receptions for 83 yards and two touchdown receptions.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Chicago Bears – November 10th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311100chi.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226040308/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311100chi.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The second one gave him the Lions all-time record for touchdown catches with 63, breaking the old mark previously held by Herman Moore.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson passes Herman Moore for most touchdown receptions in Detroit Lions history |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2013/11/calvin_johnson_passes_herman_m.html |website=MLive |date=2013-11-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203701/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2013/11/calvin_johnson_passes_herman_m.html |archive-date=2020-10-05 |url-status=live |last1=Rogers |first1=Justin |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en-US}} In the following game, he had six receptions for 179 yards and two receiving touchdowns in the 37–27 loss to the Pittsburgh Steelers in week 11.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Pittsburgh Steelers – November 17th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311170pit.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190412095037/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311170pit.htm |archive-date=April 12, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Following the Steelers game, he added two more 100-yard performances in Weeks 12–13 against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Green Bay Packers.{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions – November 24th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311240det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220214143615/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311240det.htm |archive-date=February 14, 2022 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Green Bay Packers at Detroit Lions – November 28th, 2013 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311280det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190921153919/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201311280det.htm |archive-date=September 21, 2019 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Overall, he finished the 2013 season with 84 receptions, 1,492 receiving yards, and 12 receiving touchdowns in 14 games.{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions awards: Calvin Johnson named offensive MVP |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2014/01/detroit_lions_awards_calvin_jo.html |website=MLive |date=2014-01-07 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203703/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2014/01/detroit_lions_awards_calvin_jo.html |archive-date=2020-10-05 |url-status=live |last1=Meinke |first1=Kyle |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en-US}} Johnson was named to the 2014 Pro Bowl, but an injury forced him to withdraw.{{Cite web |last=Wiederer |first=Dan |date=January 9, 2014 |title=Bears receiver Jeffery gets Pro Bowl invite |url=https://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-receiver-alshon-jeffery-pro-bowl-20140109,0,6163457.story |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140109204945/http://www.chicagotribune.com/sports/football/bears/chi-bears-receiver-alshon-jeffery-pro-bowl-20140109,0,6163457.story |archive-date=January 9, 2014 |access-date=January 9, 2014 |website=Chicago Tribune}} Johnson was ranked second by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2014.{{Cite web |title=2014 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2014-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200407184125/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2014-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=April 7, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2014 season==
{{see also|2014 Detroit Lions season}}
Johnson started the 2014 season off strong with seven receptions for 164 yards and two receiving touchdowns in a 35–14 victory over the New York Giants on Monday Night Football.{{Cite web |title=New York Giants at Detroit Lions – September 8th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201409080det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180613160522/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201409080det.htm |archive-date=June 13, 2018 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson suffered an ankle injury that kept him out of action after week 5.{{Cite magazine |last=Burke |first=Chris |date=October 12, 2014 |title=NFL Week 6 injury updates: Calvin Johnson, Reggie Bush both out |url=https://www.si.com/nfl/2014/10/12/nfl-week-6-injuries-tom-brady-calvin-johnson |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203132929/https://www.si.com/nfl/2014/10/12/nfl-week-6-injuries-tom-brady-calvin-johnson |archive-date=December 3, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |magazine=Sports Illustrated |language=en-us}} He returned in week 10 against the Miami Dolphins and had seven receptions for 113 yards and a touchdown in the 20–16 victory.{{Cite web |title=Miami Dolphins at Detroit Lions – November 9th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201411090det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190401141520/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201411090det.htm |archive-date=April 1, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} On November 27, in the annual Thanksgiving Day game against the Chicago Bears, Johnson became the fastest player to reach 10,000 receiving yards in NFL history at the time, eclipsing the mark in the second quarter of his 115th game.{{cite web |title=Megatron fastest to 10,000 receiving yards |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/11946597 |website=ESPN |date=2014-11-27 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20191026140006/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/11946597 |archive-date=2019-10-26 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en}} Against the Bears, he had 11 receptions for 146 yards and two receiving touchdowns in the 34–17 victory.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – November 27th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201411270det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402144821/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201411270det.htm |archive-date=April 2, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the next game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, he had eight receptions for 158 yards and a receiving touchdown in the 34–17 victory.{{Cite web |title=Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Detroit Lions – December 7th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201412070det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226041557/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201412070det.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} He closed the season out with four receptions for 39 yards and two receiving touchdowns in a 30–20 loss to the Green Bay Packers.{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Green Bay Packers – December 28th, 2014 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201412280gnb.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190330032513/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201412280gnb.htm |archive-date=March 30, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} The Lions finished with a 11–5 record and earned a playoff spot in the Wild Card Round.{{Cite web |title=2014 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2014.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220516100735/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2014.htm |archive-date=May 16, 2022 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In the 24–20 loss to the Dallas Cowboys, he had five receptions for 85 receiving yards.{{Cite web |title=Wild Card – Detroit Lions at Dallas Cowboys – January 4th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201501040dal.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005175938/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201501040dal.htm |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
Johnson was named to his fifth consecutive Pro Bowl, the most by any Lion since Barry Sanders was named to ten consecutive Pro Bowls.{{Cite web |last=Trister |first=Noah |date=November 27, 2014 |title=Johnson shines in Detroit's 34–17 win over Chicago |url=http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20141127_CHI@DET |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20141203080810/http://www.cbssports.com/nfl/gametracker/recap/NFL_20141127_CHI@DET |archive-date=December 3, 2014 |access-date=December 1, 2014 |website=CBS Sports}} He finished the 2014 season with 71 receptions for 1,044 receiving yards and receiving eight touchdowns.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson 2014 Game Log |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2014 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043228/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/2014 |archive-date=March 6, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson and Golden Tate became the Lions' first duo to reach 1,000 yards apiece in the same season since Roy Williams and Mike Furrey in 2006.{{Cite web |title=2014 Detroit Lions Statistics & Players |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2014.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200727182746/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2014.htm |archive-date=July 27, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions 1,000-Yard Receiving Seasons, NFL history |url=http://pfref.com/tiny/Y3HBo |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203702/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/tiny.fcgi?id=Y3HBo |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Johnson was ranked sixth by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2015.{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL Top 100 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2015-nfl-top-100.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200508061426/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/2015-nfl-top-100.htm |archive-date=May 8, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
==2015 season==
{{see also|2015 Detroit Lions season}}
Much like week 1 in Chicago five years back, in week 4 at Seattle, Johnson was involved in another controversial play. This time, late in the fourth quarter, Seahawks safety Kam Chancellor punched the ball out of Johnson's hands while he was trying to score a late go-ahead touchdown. Linebacker K. J. Wright then batted the ball out of the end zone for a touchback. The NFL later admitted the referees should have penalized Wright for illegal batting. The Seahawks won the game by a score of 13–10.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson fumbles on the 1-yard line |url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2015/10/5/9459855/seahawks-lions-calvin-johnson-fumble-kam-chancellor |website=SB Nation |date=2015-10-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160912230435/http://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2015/10/5/9459855/seahawks-lions-calvin-johnson-fumble-kam-chancellor |archive-date=2016-09-12 |url-status=live |last1=Sherman |first1=Rodger |access-date=March 19, 2019}}{{cite web |title=Refs screw up key call at end of Lions-Seahawks |url=https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2015/10/5/9460055/nfl-blown-call-lions-seahawks-fumble-referees-calvin-johnson |website=SB Nation |date=2015-10-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190308070818/https://www.sbnation.com/nfl/2015/10/5/9460055/nfl-blown-call-lions-seahawks-fumble-referees-calvin-johnson |archive-date=2019-03-08 |url-status=live |last1=Zeigler |first1=Cyd |access-date=March 19, 2019}}{{cite web |title=Kam Chancellor forces fumble of Calvin Johnson, saves Seahawks in win over Lions |url=https://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/10/05/kam-chancellor-forces-fumble-of-calvin-johnson-saves-seahawks-in-win-over-lions/ |website=ProFootballTalk |date=2015-10-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160515172325/http://profootballtalk.nbcsports.com/2015/10/05/kam-chancellor-forces-fumble-of-calvin-johnson-saves-seahawks-in-win-over-lions/ |archive-date=2016-05-15 |url-status=live |last1=Crabtree |first1=Curtis |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions at Seattle Seahawks – October 5th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201510050sea.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190226041949/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201510050sea.htm |archive-date=February 26, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 5, a 42–17 loss to the Arizona Cardinals, Johnson caught his 671st career pass, breaking Herman Moore's franchise record.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson now Lions' all-time receptions leader |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/183142/calvin-johnson-now-lions-all-time-receptions-leader |website=ESPN |date=2015-10-11 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203711/https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/183142/calvin-johnson-now-lions-all-time-receptions-leader |archive-date=2020-10-05 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=April 11, 2020 |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Arizona Cardinals at Detroit Lions – October 11th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201510110det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502002554/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201510110det.htm |archive-date=May 2, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 6, Johnson caught six passes for 166 yards in an overtime 37–34 victory over the Chicago Bears. This gave the Lions their first victory of the season after an 0–5 start.{{Cite web |title=Chicago Bears at Detroit Lions – October 18th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201510180det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402115146/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201510180det.htm |archive-date=April 2, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} This was his fourth NFC Offensive Player of the Week nomination for his effort against the Bears.{{Cite web |title=2015 NFL Week 6 Leaders & Scores |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2015/week_6.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211117181707/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/years/2015/week_6.htm |archive-date=November 17, 2021 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 12, against the Philadelphia Eagles, Johnson caught eight passes for 93 yards and three touchdowns to help lead the Lions to their third straight victory and lift their record to 4–7.{{Cite web |title=Philadelphia Eagles at Detroit Lions – November 26th, 2015 |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201511260det.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502001817/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201511260det.htm |archive-date=May 2, 2019 |access-date=March 2, 2019 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} In week 8 against the Kansas City Chiefs in the NFL International Series on November 1, Johnson became the fastest player to reach 11,000 receiving yards in NFL history, in his 127th game.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson hits 11,000 receiving yards in record time in bad offense |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/20004/calvin-johnson-hits-11000-receiving-yards-in-record-time-in-bad-offense |website=ESPN |date=2015-11-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151103002351/http://espn.go.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/20004/calvin-johnson-hits-11000-receiving-yards-in-record-time-in-bad-offense |archive-date=2015-11-03 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=November 1, 2015}} Johnson finished the season with 88 receptions for 1,214 yards (13.8 average), and nine touchdowns, reaching 1,000-yards receiving for the sixth consecutive year, and seventh time in nine years.{{cite web |title=Lions WR Calvin Johnson reaches 1,000 yards receiving for sixth straight season |url=http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/12/lions_wr_calvin_johnson_reache.html |website=MLive |date=2015-12-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224104641/http://www.mlive.com/lions/index.ssf/2015/12/lions_wr_calvin_johnson_reache.html |archive-date=2015-12-24 |url-status=live |last1=Meinke |first1=Kyle |access-date=December 21, 2015}} Johnson was named to the Pro Bowl for the sixth consecutive year, but he declined to attend.{{cite web |title=Two Lions named to 2016 Pro Bowl |url=http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Two-Lions-named-to-2016-Pro-Bowl/0f16e60a-d2b5-42e7-be00-6bf92588d416 |website=Detroit Lions |date=2015-12-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151224104622/http://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-insider/article-1/Two-Lions-named-to-2016-Pro-Bowl/0f16e60a-d2b5-42e7-be00-6bf92588d416 |archive-date=2015-12-24 |url-status=dead |last1=Twentyman |first1=Tim |access-date=December 22, 2015}} His 1,214 yards in the 2015 season are the most ever in a player's final season in the NFL, while his 88 receptions are the second most in a player's final season, trailing Sterling Sharpe's 94 receptions in the 1994 season.{{Cite web |title=Most receiving yards in a player's final season, NFL history |url=http://pfref.com/tiny/fQqZm |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203705/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/tiny.fcgi?id=fQqZm |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=Retirement=
On March 8, 2016, Johnson announced his retirement from the NFL after nine seasons.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson retires from the National Football League |url=http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Calvin-Johnson-retires-from-the-National-Football-League/b5fbfa4d-8354-44c2-aa28-2987ba7f0171 |website=Detroit Lions |date=2016-03-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160308225901/http://www.detroitlions.com/news/article-1/Calvin-Johnson-retires-from-the-National-Football-League/b5fbfa4d-8354-44c2-aa28-2987ba7f0171 |archive-date=2016-03-08 |url-status=dead |access-date=March 8, 2016}}{{Cite web |last=Birkett |first=Dave |date=March 8, 2016 |title=Detroit Lions' Calvin Johnson is retiring and is 'at peace with it' |url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/03/08/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions/79183896/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309030018/http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/03/08/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions/79183896/ |archive-date=March 9, 2016 |access-date=March 8, 2016 |newspaper=Detroit Free Press}} His 11,619 receiving yards rank fourth in a player's first nine seasons, trailing only Julio Jones (12,125), Torry Holt (11,864) and Jerry Rice (11,776).{{Cite web |title=Most receiving yards through a player's first nine seasons, NFL history |url=http://pfref.com/tiny/gT1xR |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203710/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/tiny.fcgi?id=gT1xR |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} Since Johnson was drafted by the Lions with the second overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, no player had more receiving yards, receiving touchdowns, and 100-yard games (46) than Johnson through the 2015 season.{{Cite web |title=Receiving statistics from 2007–2015, NFL history |url=http://pfref.com/tiny/kuC80 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203713/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/tiny.fcgi?id=kuC80 |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}{{Cite web |title=Most 100-yard receiving games from 2007–2015, NFL history |url=http://pfref.com/tiny/q6fzI |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203713/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/play-index/tiny.fcgi?id=q6fzI |archive-date=October 5, 2020 |access-date=July 27, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}} His 5,137 receiving yards from 2011 to 2013 are the most by any player over a three-year stretch in NFL history.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson's place in NFL history |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/statsinfo/post/_/id/115152/calvin-johnsons-place-in-nfl-history |website=ESPN |date=2016-03-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160309031610/http://espn.go.com/blog/statsinfo/post/_/id/115152/calvin-johnsons-place-in-nfl-history |archive-date=2016-03-09 |url-status=live |access-date=March 8, 2016}}{{Cite web |last=DaSilva |first=Cameron |date=March 8, 2016 |title=The 10 craziest stats from Calvin Johnson's illustrious career |url=http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-retirement-crazy-stats-career-030816 |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20160408124348/http://www.foxsports.com/nfl/story/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-retirement-crazy-stats-career-030816 |archive-date=April 8, 2016 |access-date=March 8, 2016 |website=Fox Sports}} On February 6, 2021, Johnson was elected to the Pro Football Hall of Fame in his first year of eligibility.{{cite web |title=Lions Legend Calvin Johnson elected to Hall of Fame |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-legend-calvin-johnson-elected-to-hall-of-fame |website=Detroit Lions |date=2021-02-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211203041829/https://www.detroitlions.com/news/lions-legend-calvin-johnson-elected-to-hall-of-fame |archive-date=2021-12-03 |url-status=live |last1=OHara |first1=Moke |access-date=February 6, 2021}}
Despite spending his entire nine-year career with the Lions, Johnson did not partake in any events or attend games being played by his former team,{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson: I was 'stuck' in Detroit; 'it just wasn't for me anymore' |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2017/07/11/detroit-lions-calvin-johnson-retirement/470049001/ |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2017-07-11 |last1=Crawford |first1=Kirkland |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US |archive-date=January 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123021952/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2017/07/11/detroit-lions-calvin-johnson-retirement/470049001/ |url-status=live }} until 2023. He has stated this was because the Lions forced him to repay $1.6 million of his signing bonus for retiring early and not playing out his contract.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson: Detroit Lions' offer shows team 'not serious' about mending fences |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2021/08/06/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-relationship/5515864001/ |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2021-08-06 |last1=Birkett |first1=Dave |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US}} The Lions offered to pay Johnson $500,000 a year for three years to show up and speak at team events and donate an additional $100,000 to a charity of his choice, but he did not accept the offer, stating, "they need to figure out a way to do it and not have me work for it. Because I already did the work for it".{{cite web |title=Report: Calvin Johnson turned down Lions' offer of $500,000 a year for 28 hours of work |url=https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-calvin-johnson-turned-down-lions-offer-of-500000-a-year-for-28-hours-of-work |website=NBC Sports |date=2021-08-07 |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US |archive-date=January 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123022206/https://www.nbcsports.com/nfl/profootballtalk/rumor-mill/news/report-calvin-johnson-turned-down-lions-offer-of-500000-a-year-for-28-hours-of-work |url-status=live }} He has said on multiple occasions that things between him and his former team will never be made right until then and has gone on to say that ownership views the team's players as "pawns".{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson: Feud with Lions won't be resolved until team 'figures out' how to pay $1.6M he's owed |url=https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/calvin-johnson-feud-with-lions-wont-be-resolved-until-team-figures-out-how-to-pay-1-6m-hes-owed/ |website=CBS Sports |date=2021-09-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221027042241/https://www.cbssports.com/nfl/news/calvin-johnson-feud-with-lions-wont-be-resolved-until-team-figures-out-how-to-pay-1-6m-hes-owed/ |archive-date=2022-10-27 |url-status=live |last1=Taranto |first1=Steven |access-date=October 27, 2022 |language=en}} More recently, Johnson's stance has softened as he attended several Detroit Lions team practices during the 2023 season and the September 17, 2023, home game against the Seattle Seahawks.{{cite web |title=VIDEO: Calvin Johnson makes an appearance at Detroit Lions OTAs |url=https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2023/5/24/23736515/video-calvin-johnson-makes-appearance-detroit-lions-otas |website=Pride Of Detroit |date=2023-05-24 |last1=Reisman |first1=Jeremy |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en}}{{cite web |title=Lions vs. Seahawks Week 2 photos |url=https://www.detroitlions.com/photos/lions-vs-seahawks-week-2-photos#675e8731-0b04-40d1-975a-a1783fcdcfe4 |website=Detroit Lions |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US |archive-date=January 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123022448/https://www.detroitlions.com/photos/lions-vs-seahawks-week-2-photos#675e8731-0b04-40d1-975a-a1783fcdcfe4 |url-status=live }} Johnson was seen supporting the Lions at Ford Field as they secured their first playoff win since 1992 where they beat the Los Angeles Rams 24–23.{{cite web |title=Goff leads Lions to first playoff win in 32 years, 24-23 over Stafford and the Rams - CBS Los Angeles |url=https://www.cbsnews.com/losangeles/news/lions-top-rams-in-nfc-wildcard-round-24-23/ |website=CBS News |date=2024-01-14 |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US |agency=Associated Press}}{{cite web |title=Former Detroit Lions players and celebrity fans show out for first playoff game at Ford Field |url=https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/01/14/detroit-lions-nfl-playoff-game-celebrities-former-stars/72227842007/ |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2024-01-14 |last1=Ramsey |first1=Jared |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US |archive-date=January 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123021816/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2024/01/14/detroit-lions-nfl-playoff-game-celebrities-former-stars/72227842007/ |url-status=live }}{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson is 'extremely happy' for the Lions and to be around the team |url=https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/01/20/calvin-johnson-lions-playoff-win-jim-rome-show-interview/ |website=USA Today |date=2024-01-20 |last1=Risdon |first1=Jeff |access-date=January 23, 2024 |language=en-US |archive-date=January 23, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240123021847/https://lionswire.usatoday.com/2024/01/20/calvin-johnson-lions-playoff-win-jim-rome-show-interview/ |url-status=live }}
NFL career statistics
| class="wikitable"
! colspan="2"| Legend |
| style="background-color:#e0cef2; width:3em;"|
| NFL record |
| style="background-color:#cfecec; width:3em;"|
| Led the league |
| Bold
| Career high |
=Regular season=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | ||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="2"| Games ! colspan="5"| Receiving ! colspan="5"| Rushing ! colspan="2"| Fumbles | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Rec | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Att | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Fum | Lost | |
| 2007 | DET
| 15 || 10 || 48 || 756 || 15.8 || 49 || 4 || 4 || 52 || 13.0 || 32T || 1 || 1 || 0 | |||||||||||||
| 2008 | DET
| 16 || 16 || 78 || 1,331 || 17.1 || 96T || style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"| 12 || 3 || −1 || −0.3 || 7 || 0 || 3 || 2 | |||||||||||||
| 2009 | DET
| 14 || 14 || 67 || 984 || 14.7 || 75T || 5 || 7 || 73 || 10.4 || 19 || 0 || 3 || 2 | |||||||||||||
| 2010 | DET
| 15 || 15 || 77 || 1,120 || 14.5 || 87T || 12 || 4 || 32 || 8.0 || 15 || 0 || 1 || 0 | |||||||||||||
| 2011 | DET
| 16 || 16 || 96 || style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;"| 1,681 || 17.5 || 73T || 16 || 1 || 11 || 11.0 || 11 || 0 || 1 || 1 | |||||||||||||
| 2012 | DET
| 16 || 16 || style="background:#cfecec; width:3em;" | 122 || style="background:#e0cef2; width:3em"| 1,964 || 16.1 || 53 || 5 || — || — || — || — || — || 3 || 3 | |||||||||||||
| 2013 | DET
| 14 || 14 || 84 || 1,492 || 17.8 || 87 || 12 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 1 | |||||||||||||
| 2014 | DET
| 13 || 13 || 71 || 1,077 || 15.2 || 67T || 8 || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||
| 2015 | DET
| 16 || 16 || 88 || 1,214 || 13.8 || 57 || 9 || — || — || — || — || — || 1 || 1 | |||||||||||||
| colspan="2"|[http://www.nfl.com/player/calvinjohnson/2495647/careerstats Career] | 135 | 130 | 731 | 11,619 | 15.9 | 96T | 83 | 19 | 167 | 8.8 | 32T | 1 | 14 | 10 |
=Postseason=
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" | ||||||||||||||
| rowspan="2"| Year
! rowspan="2"| Team ! colspan="2"| Games ! colspan="5"| Receiving ! colspan="5"| Rushing ! colspan="2"| Fumbles | ||||||||||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| GP | GS | Rec | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Att | Yds | Avg | Lng | TD | Fum | Lost | |
| 2011 | DET
| 1 || 1 || 12 || 211 || 17.6 || 42 || 2 || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||
| 2014 | DET
| 1 || 1 || 5 || 85 || 17.0 || 28 || 0 || — || — || — || — || — || 0 || 0 | |||||||||||||
| colspan="2"| [https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00/gamelog/post/ Career] | 2 | 2 | 17 | 296 | 17.4 | 42 | 2 | 0 | 0 | 0.0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 |
=NFL honors=
- 3x First-team All-Pro (2011–2013){{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson Stats, Height, Weight, Position, Draft, College |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00.htm |website=Pro Football Reference |access-date=29 January 2025 |language=en |archive-date=April 27, 2024 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240427221252/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/J/JohnCa00.htm |url-status=live }}
- Second-team All-Pro (2010)
- 6× Pro Bowl (2010–2015)
- 2× NFL receiving yards leader (2011, 2012)
- NFL receptions leader (2012)
- NFL receiving touchdowns leader (2008)
- NFL 2010s All-Decade Team{{Cite web |title=Pro Football Hall of Fame All-Decade Teams – 2010s |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/pfhof_all_decade_2010.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220505030719/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/pfhof_all_decade_2010.htm |archive-date=May 5, 2022 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
- PFWA All-Rookie Team (2007)
- Detroit Lions All-Time Team{{cite web |last1=Reisman |first1=Jeremy |title=Detroit Lions announce All-Time Team, including Matthew Stafford |url=https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2019/9/29/20889825/detroit-lions-announce-all-time-team-roster |website=Pride Of Detroit |access-date=29 January 2025 |language=en |date=29 September 2019 |archive-date=December 18, 2023 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231218141904/https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2019/9/29/20889825/detroit-lions-announce-all-time-team-roster |url-status=live }}
- Pride of the Lions{{cite web |last1=Woodyard |first1=Eric |title=Pride of Lions: Detroit honoring 'Megatron' on MNF |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/41520362/calvin-johnson-pride-lions-monday-night-football |website=ESPN |access-date=29 January 2025 |language=en |date=30 September 2024}}
- 4x NFC Offensive Player of the Week (2010 – Week 8, 2011 – Week 15, 2013 – Week 8, 2015 – Week 6){{Cite web |title=Players of the Week |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-week.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201003132417/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-week.htm |archive-date=October 3, 2020 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
- 2x NFC Offensive Player of the Month (November 2012, October 2013){{Cite web |title=NFL Players of the Month |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-month.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220929204108/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/awards/players-of-the-month.htm |archive-date=September 29, 2022 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
=NFL records=
- Most receiving yards in a single season (16 games): 1,964 yards (2012){{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson breaks record |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/8774027/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-breaks-jerry-rice-single-season-receiving-record |website=ESPN |date=2012-12-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121223051838/http://espn.go.com/nfl/story/_/id/8774027/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions-breaks-jerry-rice-single-season-receiving-record |archive-date=2012-12-23 |url-status=live |access-date=December 12, 2012 |agency=Associated Press}}
- Seasons with 1,600 yards receiving (2, tied with Marvin Harrison, Torry Holt, Antonio Brown, Julio Jones and Justin Jefferson){{cite web |title=Most seasons with at least 1,600 receiving yards, NFL history |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=most+1600+receiving+yard+seasons%2C+nfl+history |website=StatMuse |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204035818/https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=most+1600+receiving+yard+seasons,+nfl+history |archive-date=2022-12-04 |url-status=live |access-date=December 3, 2022}}
- Most consecutive games with at least 100 receiving yards (8, tied with Adam Thielen){{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson: 117 yards down, 65 to go |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nfcnorth/post/_/id/51104/calvin-johnson-117-yards-down-65-to-go |website=ESPN |date=2012-12-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121225022843/http://espn.go.com/blog/nfcnorth/post/_/id/51104/calvin-johnson-117-yards-down-65-to-go |archive-date=2012-12-25 |url-status=live |last1=Seifert |first1=Kevin |access-date=December 12, 2012}}
- Most consecutive games with at least 10 receptions (4){{cite web |title=Falcons clinch NFC's No. 1 seed; Calvin Johnson breaks receiving record |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/recap?gameId=321222008 |website=ESPN |date=2012-12-12 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121223053626/http://scores.espn.go.com/nfl/recap?gameId=321222008 |archive-date=2012-12-23 |url-status=live |access-date=December 12, 2012 |agency=Associated Press}}
- Most 100 receiving yard games in a single season (11, tied with Michael Irvin)
- Most receiving yards in a five-game span (861 yards) {{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson has the most receiving yards in a 5 game span ever |url=http://network.yardbarker.com/all_sports/article_external/calvin_johnson_has_the_most_receiving_yards_in_a_5_game_span_ever/15147770 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20150827070509/http://nfldraftdiamonds.com/calvin-johnson-has-the-most-receiving-yards-in-a-5-game-span-ever/ |archive-date=August 27, 2015 |access-date=November 25, 2015 |website=NFL Draft Diamonds}}
- Most receiving yards in a six-game span (962 yards) {{cite web |title=Eli Manning returns to San Diego, jeering ensues |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/eli-manning-returns-to-san-diego-jeering-ensues-0ap2000000293464 |website=National Football League |date=2013-12-06 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151125181317/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000293464/article/eli-manning-returns-to-san-diego-jeering-ensues |archive-date=2015-11-25 |url-status=live |last1=Rank |first1=Adam |access-date=November 25, 2015}}
- Most receiving yards in a single game in regulation: 329 (October 27, 2013, against the Dallas Cowboys)
- Most games with at least 200 receiving yards: 5 (tied with Lance Alworth)
=Lions franchise records=
- Most receiving touchdowns in a single season: 16 (2011){{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Single-Season Receiving Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/single-season-receiving.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190502002556/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/single-season-receiving.htm |archive-date=May 2, 2019 |access-date=April 11, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
- Most receiving touchdowns, career: 83{{cite web |title=Detroit Lions Receiving Records |url=http://www.detroitlions.com/team/history/all-time-records.html |website=Detroit Lions |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130108103147/http://www.detroitlions.com/team/history/all-time-records.html |archive-date=2013-01-08 |url-status=dead |access-date=March 8, 2016}}{{Cite web |title=Detroit Lions Career Receiving Leaders |url=https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/career-receiving.htm |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201101193251/https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/career-receiving.htm |archive-date=November 1, 2020 |access-date=November 3, 2020 |website=Pro Football Reference |language=en}}
- Most receiving yards, career: 11,619
- Most receptions in a single game: 14 (October 27, 2013, against the Dallas Cowboys, tied with Herman Moore)
- Most receiving yards in a single game: 329 (October 27, 2013, against the Dallas Cowboys){{cite web |title=By the numbers: Calvin Johnson's place in history after 329-yard game for Detroit Lions |url=https://www.mlive.com/lions/2013/10/by_the_numbers_calvin_johnsons.html |website=MLive |date=2013-10-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210922152146/https://www.mlive.com/lions/2013/10/by_the_numbers_calvin_johnsons.html |archive-date=2021-09-22 |url-status=live |last1=Meinke |first1=Kyle |access-date=November 3, 2020 |language=en}}
- Most receptions, career: 731
- Most seasons with 10+ receiving touchdowns: 4
- Most career 70+ yard receptions: 8{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson sets two franchise records |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/86338/calvin-johnson-sets-two-franchise-records |website=ESPN |date=2013-09-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131029200539/http://www.espn.go.com/blog/nflnation/post/_/id/86338/calvin-johnson-sets-two-franchise-records |archive-date=2013-10-29 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=October 29, 2013}}
- Most games with multiple touchdowns in one half: 12
- Most receiving yards in a single game in regulation (329, October 27, 2013, against the Dallas Cowboys){{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson has historical game for Detroit Lions |url=https://www.nfl.com/news/calvin-johnson-has-historic-game-for-detroit-lions-0ap2000000271275 |website=National Football League |date=2013-10-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140820183155/http://www.nfl.com/news/story/0ap2000000271275/article/calvin-johnson-has-historic-game-for-detroit-lions |archive-date=2014-08-20 |url-status=live |last1=Patra |first1=Kevin |access-date=August 2, 2014}}{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson proves once again there's no other receiver like him |url=http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20131028/SPORTS0101/310280043 |website=The Detroit News |date=2013-10-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140808064905/http://www.detroitnews.com/article/20131028/SPORTS0101/310280043 |archive-date=2014-08-08 |url-status=dead |last1=Niyo |first1=John |access-date=August 2, 2014}}
- Most games with at least 100 receiving yards: 46{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson has 46th 100-yard game, moves into Top 10 all-time |url=https://www.espn.co.uk/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/21438/calvin-johnson-has-46th-100-yard-game-moves-into-top-10-all-time |website=ESPN |date=2016-01-03 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230122193131/https://www.espn.co.uk/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/21438/calvin-johnson-has-46th-100-yard-game-moves-into-top-10-all-time |archive-date=2023-01-22 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=November 8, 2020 |language=en}}
- Most games with at least 150 receiving yards: 15{{Cite web |date=November 8, 2020 |title=Most games with at least 150 receiving yards, Detroit Lions |url=https://stathead.com/tiny/yi2GX |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201108043147/https://stathead.com/tiny/yi2GX |archive-date=November 8, 2020 |access-date=November 8, 2020 |website=Stathead}}
- Most games with at least 200 receiving yards: 5
- Most games with at least 300 receiving yards: 1
- Most games with at least one receiving touchdown: 64{{cite web |title=Most games with at least one receiving touchdown, Detroit Lions |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=player+with+the+most+games+with+at+least+one+receiving+touchdown%252c+detroit+lions |website=StatMuse |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204035930/https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=player+with+the+most+games+with+at+least+one+receiving+touchdown%252c+detroit+lions |archive-date=2022-12-04 |url-status=live |access-date=December 4, 2022 |language=en}}
- Most games with at least two receiving touchdowns: 17{{cite web |title=Most games with at least two receiving touchdowns, Detroit Lions |url=https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=player+with+the+most+games+with+at+least+two+receiving+touchdowns%252c+detroit+lions |website=StatMuse |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221204040012/https://www.statmuse.com/nfl/ask?q=player+with+the+most+games+with+at+least+two+receiving+touchdowns%252c+detroit+lions |archive-date=2022-12-04 |url-status=live |access-date=December 4, 2022 |language=en}}
''Dancing with the Stars''
On August 30, 2016, Johnson was announced as one of the celebrities who would compete on season 23 of Dancing with the Stars.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson, Ryan Lochte Among Athletes of 2016 'Dancing with the Stars' Cast |url=https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2660523-calvin-johnson-ryan-lochte-among-athletes-of-2016-dancing-with-the-stars-cast |website=Bleacher Report |date=2016-08-30 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170314060435/http://bleacherreport.com/articles/2660523-calvin-johnson-ryan-lochte-among-athletes-of-2016-dancing-with-the-stars-cast |archive-date=2017-03-14 |url-status=live |last1=Chiari |first1=Mike |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en}} He was partnered with professional dancer Lindsay Arnold.{{cite web |title=Lindsay Arnold: 'Possible' to win 'DWTS' with Megatron |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/television/2016/10/31/lindsay-arnold-possible-win-dtws-calvin-johnson/93066038/ |website=The Detroit News |date=2016-10-31 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190403202830/https://www.detroitnews.com/story/entertainment/television/2016/10/31/lindsay-arnold-possible-win-dtws-calvin-johnson/93066038/ |archive-date=2019-04-03 |url-status=live |last1=Steinberg |first1=Stephanie |access-date=July 27, 2020 |language=en}} He finished in third place to James Hinchcliffe and Laurie Hernandez.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson finishes third on 'Dancing with the Stars' |url=https://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/2016/11/22/calvin-johnson-dancing-with-the-stars-winner/94312820/ |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2016-11-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190829182859/https://www.freep.com/story/entertainment/2016/11/22/calvin-johnson-dancing-with-the-stars-winner/94312820/ |archive-date=2019-08-29 |url-status=live |last1=Hinds |first1=Julie |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en}}
| class="wikitable" style="text-align:center;" |
| style="text-align:center;
! rowspan="2" bgcolor="#CCCCCC" align="center" | Week ! rowspan="2" bgcolor="#CCCCCC" align="center" | Dance / Song ! colspan="4" bgcolor="#CCCCCC" align="center" | Judges' score ! rowspan="2" bgcolor="#CCCCCC" align="center" | Result |
| bgcolor="#CCCCCC" width="10%" align="center" | Inaba
| bgcolor="#CCCCCC" width="10%" align="center" | Goodman | bgcolor="#CCCCCC" width="10%" align="center" | Hough | bgcolor="#CCCCCC" width="10%" align="center" | Tonioli |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 1
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Cha-cha-cha / "That's What I Like" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 6 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 6 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | No elimination |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 2
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Foxtrot / "As Days Go By" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 3
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Viennese Waltz / "It's a Woman's World" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Safe (Immunity) |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 4
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Charleston / "Bella Donna Twist" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 5
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Jazz / "Ain't No Mountain High Enough" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | No elimination |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 6
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Argentine Tango / "Hotel California" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Last to be called safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 7
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Jive / "Good Golly, Miss Molly" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Quickstep / "Dr. Bones" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9
| align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Waltz / "Memory" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 10 Semifinals | align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Tango / "Seven Nation Army" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Last to be called safe |
| bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 11 Finals | align="left" bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | Viennese Waltz / "I Am Your Man" | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 8 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 | bgcolor="#FAF6F6" | 9 ! style="background:tan;" | Third Place |
Cannabis
{{See also|Cannabis and sports}}
In February 2019, Johnson and his wife Brittney were granted preliminary approval to open a medical cannabis dispensary in Michigan.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson wins preliminary approval for medical pot shop |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/02/21/calvin-johnson-seeks-approval-bloomfield-hills-medical-pot-shop/2936954002/ |website=The Detroit News |date=2019-02-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043324/https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/02/21/calvin-johnson-seeks-approval-bloomfield-hills-medical-pot-shop/2936954002/ |archive-date=2019-03-06 |url-status=live |last1=LeBlanc |first1=Beth |access-date=March 4, 2019}}{{cite web |title=Former Detroit Lion Calvin Johnson gets thumbs up for Michigan marijuana shop |url=https://www.mlive.com/news/2019/02/former-detroit-lion-calvin-johnson-gets-thumbs-up-for-michigan-marijuana-shop.html |website=MLive |date=2019-02-21 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190306043146/https://www.mlive.com/news/2019/02/former-detroit-lion-calvin-johnson-gets-thumbs-up-for-michigan-marijuana-shop.html |archive-date=2019-03-06 |url-status=live |last1=Biolchini |first1=Amy |access-date=March 4, 2019}} He has since proceeded with plans to launch several cannabis facilities across the state (along with his business partner Rob Sims) under the brand name Primitiv.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson joins Michigan marijuana trade association board |url=https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/08/15/calvin-johnson-joins-michigan-marijuana-trade-association-board/2017959001/ |website=The Detroit News |date=2019-08-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190815164345/https://www.detroitnews.com/story/news/local/michigan/2019/08/15/calvin-johnson-joins-michigan-marijuana-trade-association-board/2017959001/ |archive-date=2019-08-15 |url-status=live |last1=LeBlanc |first1=Beth |access-date=August 26, 2019}}{{cite web |title=Former Detroit Lions players announce partnership with Harvard to study marijuana |url=https://www.freep.com/story/news/marijuana/2019/08/15/calvin-johnson-robert-sims-harvard-marijuana-research/2022874001/ |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2019-08-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190829034805/https://www.freep.com/story/news/marijuana/2019/08/15/calvin-johnson-robert-sims-harvard-marijuana-research/2022874001/ |archive-date=2019-08-29 |url-status=live |last1=Gray |first1=Kathleen |access-date=August 26, 2019}} In August 2019, Johnson was named to the board of directors of the Michigan Cannabis Industry Association.{{Cite press release |title=Former Detroit Lion Calvin Johnson Jr. Joins Michigan Cannabis Industry Association Board of Directors |date=August 15, 2019 |publisher=Michigan Cannabis Industry Association |location=Lansing |url=https://www.micannabisindustryassociation.org/2019/08/15/former-detroit-lion-calvin-johnson-jr-joins-michigan-cannabis-industry-association-board-of-directors/ |access-date=August 26, 2019 |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190827021442/https://www.micannabisindustryassociation.org/2019/08/15/former-detroit-lion-calvin-johnson-jr-joins-michigan-cannabis-industry-association-board-of-directors/ |archive-date=August 27, 2019}}
Also in August 2019, Johnson announced a partnership with Harvard University to study the effects of cannabis on chronic traumatic encephalopathy (CTE) and its benefits in managing pain. As part of the partnership, Johnson and Sims announced a six-figure donation to the International Phytomedicines and Medical Cannabis Institute at Harvard.{{cite web |title=Megatron partners in marijuana-for-CTE research |url=https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27396863/megatron-partners-marijuana-cte-research |website=ESPN |date=2019-08-15 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190816183407/https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/27396863/megatron-partners-marijuana-cte-research |archive-date=2019-08-16 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=August 26, 2019}} In his Hall of Fame induction speech, Johnson noted his work with Harvard and the potential for plant-based medicines to "provide an alternative to their destructive counterparts, opioids".{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson uses Hall of Fame speech to advocate for pain treatment alternatives in sports |url=https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/8/22616117/calvin-johnson-hall-of-fame-speech-advocate-pain-treatment-alternatives-sports-opioids-marijuana |website=Pride of Detroit |date=2021-08-08 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210812021721/https://www.prideofdetroit.com/2021/8/8/22616117/calvin-johnson-hall-of-fame-speech-advocate-pain-treatment-alternatives-sports-opioids-marijuana |archive-date=2021-08-12 |url-status=live |last1=Reisman |first1=Jeremy |access-date=August 12, 2021}}
Personal life
Johnson founded The Calvin Johnson Jr. Foundation, Inc. in 2008.{{cite web |title=Lions Calvin Johnson builds solid foundation |url=https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2014/07/05/detroit-lions-calvin-johnson-foundation/12261197/ |website=USA Today |date=2014-07-05 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121205415/https://www.usatoday.com/story/sports/nfl/2014/07/05/detroit-lions-calvin-johnson-foundation/12261197/ |archive-date=2023-01-21 |url-status=live |last1=Monarrez |first1=Carlos |access-date=January 21, 2023 |language=en-US}} The foundation's goals include dedication to education, training, and social development of at-risk youth and providing financial aide to various community organizations.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson Jr. Foundation |url=https://www.calvinjohnsonjrfoundation.com/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121210805/https://www.calvinjohnsonjrfoundation.com/ |archive-date=January 21, 2023 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Calvin Johnson Jr. Foundation |language=en}} The Foundation hosts an annual camp called Catching Dreams, which aims to help high school wide receivers.{{Cite web |last=Ramsaier |first=Mary |date=July 2015 |title=Catching Dreams continues charitable focus for Calvin Johnson Jr. – Fayette County News |url=https://fayette-news.net/catching-dreams-continues-charitable-focus-for-calvin-johnson-jr/ |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121210040/https://fayette-news.net/catching-dreams-continues-charitable-focus-for-calvin-johnson-jr/ |archive-date=January 21, 2023 |access-date=January 21, 2023 |website=Fayette County News |language=en-US}}
Johnson became engaged to long-time girlfriend Brittney McNorton in March 2015.{{cite web |title=Calvin Johnson gets engaged in Baltimore |url=https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16033/calvin-johnson-gets-engaged-in-baltimore |website=ESPN |date=2015-03-17 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230121205449/https://www.espn.com/blog/detroit-lions/post/_/id/16033/calvin-johnson-gets-engaged-in-baltimore |archive-date=2023-01-21 |url-status=live |last1=Rothstein |first1=Michael |access-date=January 21, 2023 |language=en}} They were married in June 2016.{{cite web |title=Ex-Lions WR Calvin Johnson is getting married Saturday |url=http://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/06/01/detroit-lions-calvin-johnson-wedding/85263256/ |website=Detroit Free Press |date=2016-06-01 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190402184104/https://www.freep.com/story/sports/nfl/lions/2016/06/01/detroit-lions-calvin-johnson-wedding/85263256/ |archive-date=2019-04-02 |url-status=live |last1=Manzullo |first1=Brian |access-date=March 19, 2019}} The couple currently resides in Detroit. He has a son, C.J., from a previous relationship.{{cite web |title=Former Lions wideout Calvin Johnson reveals wife is expecting |url=https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/article/former-lions-wideout-calvin-johnson-reveals-wife-is-expecting-116774463/ |website=Detroit Lions |date=2018-03-28 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20201005203754/https://247sports.com/nfl/detroit-lions/Article/Former-Lions-wideout-Calvin-Johnson-reveals-wife-is-expecting-116774463/ |archive-date=2020-10-05 |url-status=live |last1=Demara |first1=Max |access-date=March 19, 2019 |language=en-US}}
Johnson is a Christian. Johnson has a tattoo of the crucifixion of Jesus on his left arm and a Christian cross on his right arm.{{Cite web |date=November 13, 2009 |title=Strength in Numbers: Calvin Johnson |url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tisYVgSzlPA |url-status=live |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190510135400/https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=tisYVgSzlPA |archive-date=May 10, 2019 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=YouTube.com |publisher=NFL Players Association}} Johnson was part of a weekly Bible study group with other Lions players.{{Cite web |title=Calvin Johnson, Detroit Lions |url=http://www.fca.org/themagazine/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions/#.U1TCiRUo7IV |url-status=dead |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140423092730/http://www.fca.org/themagazine/calvin-johnson-detroit-lions/#.U1TCiRUo7IV |archive-date=April 23, 2014 |access-date=March 19, 2019 |website=Fellowship of Christian Athletes}}
See also
- List of Detroit Lions first-round draft picks
- List of National Football League annual receiving yards leaders
- List of National Football League annual receiving touchdowns leaders
- List of National Football League annual receptions leaders
- List of Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees
- National Football League 2010s All-Decade Team
References
{{Reflist}}
External links
{{Commons category|Calvin Johnson}}
- {{Footballstats |espn=10447 |yahoo=8256 |pfr=J/JohnCa00 }}
- [https://www.profootballhof.com/players/calvin-johnson/ Pro Football Hall of Fame bio]
- [https://web.archive.org/web/20071010033933/http://ramblinwreck.cstv.com/sports/m-footbl/mtt/johnson_calvin00.html Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets bio]
- {{Profootballhof|calvin-johnson}}
- {{College Football HoF|2424}}
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{{Fred Biletnikoff Award}}
{{2006 NCAA Division I FBS College Football Consensus All-Americans}}
{{2007 NFL draft}}
{{Second overall NFL draft picks}}
{{Detroit Lions first-round draft picks}}
{{Detroit Lions 2007 NFL draft picks}}
{{Detroit Lions All-Time Team}}
{{NFL annual receptions leaders}}
{{NFL annual receiving yards leaders}}
{{NFL annual receiving touchdowns leaders}}
{{Walter Camp Man of the Year}}
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{{Madden NFL games}}
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{{Pro Football Hall of Fame members}}
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Category:All-American college football players
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Category:Detroit Lions players
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Category:Unconferenced Pro Bowl players
Category:Pro Football Hall of Fame inductees