Calvin Johnson Explains Why He Retired After the 2015 Season | A Football Life

[@jordanbostic3170]

Not going to lie, I shed a tear watching this... Calvin put literally everything on the field, he deserves royalties and honors forever.

[@JumpmanJdot2428]

And Ever

[@zackhobbs828]

And Ever

[@rundofg]

And ever

[@Band_Aid_Man_]

cut

[@rolowatts6145]

He'll get em

[@andrewvillanueva3722]

One of the greatest wide receiver ever. To bad the lions never developed a championship for him and Barry sanders. These two are hall of fame players.

[@Yomomma45738]

Everyone says the same thing lmao. You know how many great players have played the game sense the 50s and never won a Superbowl? So sick of this, "oh he would of been better if he played else where." It's just completely false. Calvin had a QB that slung that ball anywhere on the field. Wasn't just Calvin. You need a QB that will throw that thing in any situation.

[@jarrettvoigt7840]

@@Yomomma45738 Stafford is elit

[@Yomomma45738]

@@jarrettvoigt7840 duh

[@Yomomma45738]

@Cody Hess thank you

[@Yomomma45738]

@Sean McBrearty oh I forgot one guy could change the game ... We are talking about Calvin in general. And ya against the saints he had 200 something yards and 2 touchdowns

[@333Alastair]

Highly intelligent, physically gifted, disciplined, non diva receiver. They don’t make them like him anymore.

[@ygteverything1886]

I feel like davante adams is pretty close other than being absolutely physically gifted

[@flboyqwanmusic]

@@ygteverything1886 he’s physically gifted maybe not as much as megatron is

[@rezaix4534]

Prime Julio was definitely the closest, but nobody could match what Megatron could do. He was the perfect receiver: big, fast, and great hands.

[@timbrown5576]

@@rezaix4534 DK Metcalf is coming up! 6'4" and 235 lbs.!

[@dead_redux]

@@timbrown5576 you mean the guy that has a binky mouthpiece and has been ejected against the packers? or did you miss the "non-diva" part? 😂😂

[@davidcentocomedy]

As a die hard lion fan my whole life, The Stafford story about Calvin saying to his security “give these cleats to my mom” and Stafford knew it was last Monday night game and Matt kept it to himself is extremely beautiful. They were one of the best duos to ever play.

[@kvngcobra3621]

so what you sayin is that you think it's beautiful that matt kept calvin's cleats after he said give it to his mother???

[@YouzTube99]

@@kvngcobra3621 Listen to what Matthew said: 04:39. What he did was realize that Calvin had decided to retire and supported his right to announce it as he saw fit.

[@krazykrush]

@@YouzTube99 whoosh

[@Andres-cd6lr]

@@kvngcobra3621 You really aren’t the smartest are you? Stafford said Johnson gave the cleats to the SECURITY GUARD, not to him. Dummy. Pay attention.

[@bisects]

Michigan sucks!!! Go bucks!!

[@kicka11]

He comes across exactly as I always expected. Humble and honest.

[@Theiliteritesbian]

Exactly

[@blacklabelholsters1635]

The guy is class, all the way through.

[@WSFM_Rex]

Wouldnt be nice is this happened with all famous people

[@producedbykhireyakeem4340]

Atlanta, Georgia for you.

[@Gcool243]

Hall of famer. Multi millionaire. Seems like a genuinely good dude. I’m happy he decided to hang up the cleats when he felt he should

[@worrell3831]

For real. Glad he could walk away on his own terms after having a HOF career

[@chodysseus420]

Not a lions fan but Megatron my favorite player man. True football player, played his whole career with the lions through everything. Gave his all to that team, sad he didn't get a super bowl.

[@taylormcgarry470]

​@@chodysseus420Yea. It's kinda crazy how there's as many players as there is that are going to be for sure certified hall of famer and are already in hall of fame but never won at least 1 super bowl

[@draco2xx]

he wasted his career away on a garbage team, he could've accomplished so much if he had played with peyton mannin, brees or brady

[@wideopenwounds]

@@draco2xxyeah but he was determined to remain loyal to his team. And that can’t be understated. Same with people like Ray Lewis. He could’ve been on the patriots if he wanted to and had 4-5 rings instead of 2, but he was loyal to the ravens and would’ve been even if he never won that 2012 Super Bowl. Darrel Green, always a redskin. Ochocinco never wanted to leave Cincinnati. Many players who get traded and even end up winning a ring still say they wish they had never left their original team, ring or no ring.

[@jimmyolson4620]

The chemistry between him and Stafford is amazing. Stafford knew without him having to tell him.

[@boogitybear2283]

He should go to the Rams!

[@pebble312]

@@boogitybear2283 wow! great idea!!!!

[@n8pk69]

When you have Stafford and a receiver like him that good and don't make it to the SB then it was def the coaching. I mean look at them now. Without Stafford they are somehow even worse than they were before.

[@DaDualityofMan]

@@n8pk69 The Lions actually weren't as bad as their record, they were just extremely unlucky lol

[@deeperinsider2544]

@@n8pk69 you just wait

[@leonflorence118]

I love how even though he never said it explicitly to Stafford that he was retiring, his QB knew.

[@DanielLopez-fj9yz]

Respect

[@johnboehmer6683]

Well yeah, like Johnson was saying, he would have to tell Stafford to lay off throwing to him if he moved a certain way, Stafford was well aware of the extremity of his injuries.

[@keatonward8556]

Crazy how it takes a few years for some to realize how special this man was to the position. Right up there with Moss, Rice, Owens... one of the greats

[@whateveritwasitis]

o for sure, no doubt. top 5 hands down, MEGATRON

[@E-MATHER]

Probably why the lions have sucked so bad the lio s got what they deserved

[@user-mr6xq8yn5v]

He went 2nd overall in the draft, people knew. He just got trapped in an awful franchise.

[@whateveritwasitis]

For whatever reason, christ carter's name gets left out alot but he was elite with hands

[@doughenry4172]

@@whateveritwasitis crazy how one team had both moss and carter at the same time

[@CrimsonKiwii]

The lions staff (GM, owner, etc.) did not deserve him. the fans and teammates did

[@taco2728]

Got tired of it lo om bro lo wow tbo lo

[@mikehall737]

They need to let him out if that contract

[@jmichael6201]

How the lions ruin Barry and Johnson and expect players to ever wana play for that Owner?

[@jmichael6201]

@@mikehall737 It’s the right thing to do. However the LIONS probably won’t.

[@THYGOATIII]

Finally, someone who understands.

[@Scrumtrulescent1]

It's such a disgrace the way the lions treated him. Not only was he an amazing athlete, he's also one of the most respectable, diva-less recievers of all time. They didn't even retire his number!

[@1986Willstokes]

Agreed!

[@8015908]

This is why the Lions loss to a record breaking field goal. Karma

[@Scrumtrulescent1]

@Idread I'm not as familiar with that one. I've heard it before but what exactly did they do?

[@mhblues1902]

Why did you think the Fords got boo'ed? Calvin and Barry had to deal with their ineptitude for so long, their honestly one of the worst if not THE worst sport franchise in history.

[@Motoplugg]

Now you understand where these athletes are coming from when they complain about how they’re treated. I don’t think people understand how demeaning it is to be pretty much be owned by another man.

[@feck2594]

Been a die hard Lions fan my entire life , the level of disrespect the franchise showed Calvin and Caldwell is unforgivable.

[@polskaman20001]

It’s fans too. Let down Lions. Fire the Fords is a win for humanity

[@NickErrrr]

@@polskaman20001 the owner has to sell the team they don’t really get fired lmfao

[@chumps7974]

@Feck. Facts. They did Calvin wrong and Caldwell even worse. The lions are not good enough to fire a winning coach! I applauded them for trading Stafford so he didn't have to follow in Barry and Calvin's footsteps. But now I've come to dislike this organization.

[@brentsta]

I pray you guys have a miracle like we did in Cincinnati. I don't know what caused Mike Brown to realize what he has but I hope it gets to your ownership too.

[@andrewfrank8272]

Sport team ownership is as corrupt as capitalism gets... The Lions have been in the league since it started and have won 1 playoff game in the Super Bowl era... One.... How does that translate to a profitable business??

[@breezyandalon]

Crazy how the Packers, Bears, and Vikings had more respect for Megatron than the Lions did.

[@Physics072]

Thats not true all the Lions players and fans loved him. The owners is a different story but they did the same thing with Barry Sanders.

[@dro9075]

@@Physics072 and Stafford until recently

[@Physics072]

@@dro9075 Well I'm glad for Stafford to be gone, at least now he has a real chance to have success. Lions a dead end ford owned team. But I'm still a fan for life.

[@jamesbarrick3403]

Lifetime Bears fan here... I wish he was playing at Soldier Field for the good guys. Class act and almost impossible to cover. The Fords are idiots (McCaskey's are not brilliant).

[@breezyandalon]

@@Physics072 I was absolutely talking about the front office and ownership. Fans and teammates i could agree had respect and even more love for him.

[@johnstjohn1987]

As a Packers fan I loved watching Megatron. One of the best ever.

[@ianjordan2658]

Me too

[@ianjordan2658]

Go Pack Go

[@MutomboFingerWag55]

One of the few things a Lions fan and a Packers fan can agree on

[@johnstjohn1987]

@@MutomboFingerWag55 W

[@dariustabor9887]

Just like gronk if his prime was maybe 2-3 years longer he would have been the greatest

[@HonoluluBlue81]

The most physically gifted receiver I’ve ever seen. Thank you Calvin for all you gave fans.

[@andrewfrank8272]

Detroit has two of those. Barry is the most gifted RB of all time... The Lions ownership is the absolute worst of all time.

[@Yeaggghurte]

@@andrewfrank8272somehow couldn’t win a Super Bowl or be a consistent contender with both plus Matthew stafford wow man

[@nardoharold7017]

Ravens fan here. Respect to Calvin I never knew how hard he had it. This was emotional.

[@a_soldierz_genetics]

Go Ravens! Are you from Baltimore? I’m born and raised down by the stadium, in pig town

[@nardoharold7017]

@@a_soldierz_genetics no I’m from Miami loved the ravens since 2000 I was 8 years old

[@nardoharold7017]

@Joseph Jaroch because it shows that appreciation comes from everywhere don’t be mad someone out there mentions you when giving credit stay postive bro

[@a_soldierz_genetics]

@@nardoharold7017 oh ok, Ive never been to Miami but wanna go next summer. When they first came to Baltimore, my father worked at the stadium. So I got to go to just about every home game they had, until 2004.

[@nardoharold7017]

@@a_soldierz_genetics you are lucky to be there have you ever met ray?

[@D23-88]

As a Saints fan, I'd regularly tune into the Lions games just to see what sort of magic Calvin would produce week after week. I still remember that 2011 Saints vs Lions playoff game, Calvin had around 200 yards in the first half alone and none of our defenders had an answer for him. Truly one of the best to ever play and wasn't a me me me guy.

[@17thN.O]

Yeah he destroyed us (Saints) and I was not shocked nor upset because I've seen his movies. He was physically the most imposing receiver of all time and that's saying something (Irvin, T.O. Marshall and Moss) were beast but he was the biggest beast.

[@bastard342]

@@17thN.O wish we won...

[@17thN.O]

@@bastard342 im trying not to laugh

[@bastard342]

@@17thN.O 😭

[@PaulGaither]

Well said. He was never a "Me me me" guy, but for defenses, he was always a "Him him him" guy, as they couldn't ever find a way to stop him.

[@MrTee12]

*The NFL still owes this man an Extra Touchdown!* 🏈

[@TP-ne6ez]

Spot on my friend. They also owe Jesse James one too

[@98slime86]

@@TP-ne6eznot even a cowboys fan but the nfl probably owes them a ring off that dez catch

[@TP-ne6ez]

@@98slime86 Agree

[@theclandestinewitness]

Thank you to Calvin and NFL films for sharing some insights into his life. This really helps put a human perspective instead of just a number on a field. Hope you're well and enjoying your retirement.

[@1inchpunisher715]

Completely agree, I love seeing these vids in general where they give alot more insight into the human being of whatever person that may be 👍

[@winfordmdrumstoo]

Well said.

[@DrBeauHightower]

What a legend. I'm a fan

[@lastfewtokes]

Well if you’re a fan I guess he made it, right? You’re on every video lol

[@Devlins10]

You bet man. Generational talent.

[@LOST_HOMIE]

Please contact my favorite reciever doc and put some work on him, he deserves it so bad

[@alpharenz1329]

Hello Doc Hightower!

[@bliztix2]

No you

[@SolamenteVees]

He is as articulate and passionate as he is physically gifted. First ballot HOF.

[@jamesharvey6833]

i know it was smart and all of him to retire sooner rather than later. but i just cant help but feel upset for him. imagine getting to the top at what you love to do the most in life, and then your body ends up as the liability. i bet he put a lot of his wealth into recovering his body before he understood there wasnt much that could be done. loved watching him play when i was in high school. but, hey. one of the best careers in football history in my opinion and at the end of the day, he made the right decision for himself.

[@AbbaZabbaOlyFrn]

This was so depressing to watch! At least he got out before his body really started to break down, the money he put into recovery and rehabbing himself must be insane but im sure he's got to have enough wealth to take care of his family for the rest of his life

[@Motoplugg]

Same thing that happened with Kobe

[@alexescutia4805]

At a certain point the game wins and you lose he was one of the most physical players in one of the most physical sports in the world suck but even though he didn’t win anything he had nothing to prove to anything anymore he was that damn good…his fkin nickname was megatron that shits sick

[@turboss08]

Imagine getting to the top and then being drafted by the Lions. I feel so bad for him.

[@dolanduck7511]

Average length of an NFL career is only 3.5 years. He made a great run of it in the time he was in. Probably the best receiver ever

[@shkrsimpson44]

Now that I think back on it, Calvin made the right decision to retire. Still got a life to love after football. Still a hall of famer.

[@chainbreakerministries8475]

I always wanted to know why he retired in his prime. Didn’t know he was feeling like that. Glad they made this video

[@jourdansarpy4935]

Yep. I was unsure but now I’m glad he got to walk away on his own terms. I used to wish he played more years but now I’m glad he didn’t have to go through that pain for another year.

[@therealdc6098]

Totally forgot about that game. Yeah they literally had 3 guys on him every play

[@lance8163]

As a Vikings fan, Calvin was one of my favorite players. It was a privilege to be able to watch you light my team up twice a year.

[@Dmagetbrain]

I know what your saying. I feel the same way about Earl Cambell and John Riggins play for their respective teams. Love seeing those guys run the football. Football greatness.

[@jaybrick8973]

Love seeing AP play for your Vikings one of my favorite rb ever

[@lawrencejackson3160]

As a Lions fan I loved watching Calvin play….. He gave Lions fan’s something to look forward to! The fact that he still lives in Michigan and does all he does for the Michigan communities let’s me know he loves the “D” just as much as we love him💪🏾🤜🏾🤛🏾

[@willmontgomery7617]

Pretty cool he still lives in Michigan. Well said comment brother

[@robertdudley3398]

Billy Sims, Barry Sanders, Calvin M Johnson, Mathew Stafford, D.Slay A. Suh. Eddie Murray the Kicker. Herman Moore Wr. Good players over years. John Kitna Qb. Honorable mention.

[@damarcuswilson1]

Pause @ loves the D

[@jholmes8245]

We love Calvin too. He was truly one of THE BEST! Right up there with Barry. Thanks Calvin. You made my team worth watching when I was fed up with losing.

[@bathcat3759]

I’m just happy he’s seemingly healthy and speaks clearly. I know he took a lot of shots, despite his size. One of the greatest players I’ve seen on the field with my two eyes, but he’s so much more than that, too.

[@SuperGreyWulf]

And it was all those shots not just him other tough dude received. This is why they protect these wr now a days. A lot of people don’t understand that.

[@Dmagetbrain]

God bless you Calvin. The NFL and the Detroit Lions may never see another player like you. You are the most physically gifted wide receiver I ever saw.

[@AB-ir8ry]

Detroit fans will always love MEGATRON!

[@davidhampton3333]

Not only Detroit, but NFL fans will always love Megatron

[@thugger-vandross]

**Everyone will always love Megatron

[@EzekielMitchell98]

@@thugger-vandross not the lions ownership

[@InvestBetter.]

"Why did I retire? Because I was still on the Lions, and there was no other way out!" - Megatron "Same." - Barry Sanders

[@B3achisme]

Yes, one of the greatest of all time. If he had played the same amount as Rice had play. He would be undeniably the GOAT at WR

[@ohmydog9171]

if he had played on as good of a team aswell

[@NickErrrr]

It’s hard to say that about a WR tho cause if he has more talent around him at every position that’s usually less targets for him but I get you

[@jameswilson461]

But he didn’t and Rice stayed healthy his whole career.

[@B3achisme]

It’s not even an argument that Megatron was the greatest WR talent wise, and physically ever in the NFL. If he had two HOF QB’s throwing to him his entire career. He would’ve been leaps and bounds ahead of anyone, forever.

[@jameswilson461]

@@B3achisme But he didn’t. Credit to Rice for staying healthy for so long in a more physical era than the modern.

[@marlonmartinez6154]

Detroit did him dirty, just like houston did andre johnson dirty, never gave them the chance to prove themselves on the biggest stage. Monstahs

[@AbbaZabbaOlyFrn]

The Lions wasted his, Barry Sanders, and Matt Stafford's careers

[@donmon808]

@@AbbaZabbaOlyFrn Stafford is gonna have a couple good years in LA at least, the other 2 were held hostage.

[@AbbaZabbaOlyFrn]

@@donmon808 exactly! I hope Stafford has a nice run with the Rams before he retires. They're looking good so far, im a Niners fan! But im pretty okay with the Rams dominating the NFC west

[@no1frommichigan88]

​@@AbbaZabbaOlyFrn Yes because no one knows any of these players you mention. If only they had one championship, we could recognize thier individual talent and superb careers for years to come. Oh wait two HoF careers and one potential. You might be exagerating a little bit. Go Lions! Jacket>ring anyday.

[@AbbaZabbaOlyFrn]

@Michael Jurek he's a delusional Lions fan. Poor guy 😞

[@johnnycrawford3880]

Calvin Johnson was the most outstanding college football player I photographed during my tenure at the Atlanta Journal-Constitution. His speed, height, hand size, route running, and knowledge of the game made him one of the greatest players of all-time at the wide receiver position. I knew he was going to be a great player because he looked like a man playing against boys at GaTech.

[@cameronriddle109]

Absolutely insane a school who ran the triple option/option offense full time landed a WR like him!

[@sauldula]

I still remember that jumping backwards catch he made, unbelievable

[@MrSteveG58]

Well said Johnny, and you took great shots as well.

[@ikGREENY]

solid man with a great mind and values. He gave us everything he could on the field and so we can’t knock him for the breakdown of his body, because he did what we all push each other to do, which was give 1000% 100% of the time. As a bears fan, much respect for this legend.

[@mattyice5290]

Mr. Johnson as someone from Detroit. I just would like to say thanks for all the memories and good times at Ford field. I cherish those with all my heart, there was truly nothing like watching you play on Sunday. At times you were the only reason I ever watched my lions. God bless my friend and I hope you’re recovering well. Much love

[@Laidback_616]

It's just something in the water in Detroit. I honestly can't say Detroit didn't try to put a good team around him and Matt. It's just whatever could go wrong always did. Love this guy either way, at least there was one bright spot every Sunday for ten years. #ThankyouMegatron

[@mach6893]

It's the Ford family. Whatever can go wrong under the Fords will go wrong.

[@ibn1989]

That franchise has never cared about winning.

[@ytsn_THE_OG]

I see what you did there

[@MrKegan321]

Something in the water? Ohhh too late. How dare you make that joke so late? (Flint Michigan reference)

[@pi3man252]

Yeah I feel the same way. I feel like the only better thing we needed was a backfield. The 2014 lions were a team to be frightened of that's for sure.

[@zeeda-mover]

Now watching this made me realize this dude took alot of brutal punishment he really put his body on the line salute to you Calvin Johnson 👏 you earned that retirement brother

[@rowanseager8646]

Literally grew up watching him play his heart out for a team taht didn’t do everything they could for him, love this man

[@ryebread7224]

Damn man. Dude is a legend on and off the field. So honored to have been able to watch him many times in my life. Calvin is what this game is all about. Thank you for the incredible memories you gave us all throughout your career, Calvin.

[@brake699gotdeletedlol]

One day, I went on Madden 08 for nostalgia. Scored with him. It said: key player- Calvin Johnson (rookie). I broke down in tears along with that message at the end.

[@nlabanok]

Proud to have this great player and person as a fellow alum of Georgia Tech.

[@thomaspick4123]

I was just reading the story of David and Goliath today as I read the Holy Bible. I would like to see 3 men side by side to appreciate the heights. A 6 foot tall man, Megatron, and Goliath. Goliath was 9 feet 9 inches tall.

[@rulerofthenfl2486]

Head coach*

[@notoriousyoutuber]

Bears fan here: Even when he played I didn’t hate Calvin. Rival WR but well respected by every fan

[@goingnuts1615]

Nobody cares

[@jackhayes6955]

@@goingnuts1615 you weird

[@ナイトウィング]

@@goingnuts1615 自己紹介

[@SVdreamin]

he was always one of my favorite players growing up. i didn’t even care he played for a rival. just such a great man and such a fun receiver to watch. bear down

[@billyjean8057]

I do say William clay Ford was a really nice guy I mean he was to much of a nice guy cuz he would let people have chances for too long

[@jph595]

I remember hearing that, when he was at Georgia Tech, he never intended on going to the NFL. It wasn't something he wanted. It's crazy to think about, given how great he was and would become.

[@postmeme44]

He did 41 in wonderlics, that's like +140 IQ right there. He's a superhuman

[@bububee2180]

It doesn’t matter what team you rooted for everyone wanted to watch Calvin Johnson make insane plays. He is the best wide receiver all time

[@anthonyswanson6710]

ugh are u too young to not know jerry rice

[@bububee2180]

@@anthonyswanson6710 he’s better than jerry rice in my opinion but it’s close and I know jerry rice leads all the records and he’s so great but that’s just because he played for a really long time. Calvin Johnson’s better. Calvin even played through ankle hurting

[@listenup394]

Absolutely the best comment possible because it's the flat out truth!!!

[@listenup394]

@@anthonyswanson6710 Jerry wishes he could be as good as calvin n yes I'm old enough and also a 49ers fan.. Jerry rice #s are great but skill wise come on Johnson owns him..

[@anthonyswanson6710]

@@bububee2180 u know what cant even beat u bro i love em both. jerry rice is the best in my eyes, Megatron mighta had the best hands ive ever seen but longevity says alot about the players mental toughness, physical toughness, n just the ability to be great for so long. jerry rice was jerry rice way longer than megatron was megatron. but again they both top 5 forsho

[@Ashbash-kf5xd]

He came into our dispensary a few months ago. He was incredibly nice and took a minute with every single one of us. He passed out some good joints. When he shook my hand goodbye, I grabbed his and told him “Sir, go to the Fords, and get your money back” he turned looked at me and gave me a hug. And that my friends is how you get high and a hug from Calvin Johnson.

[@freepalestina48]

and then everyone in the room clapped

[@royaltyblessed2454]

And then Meg the Stallion popped out from the back office and started twerking. Amazing

[@yahyemohamed6049]

@@royaltyblessed2454 What the Hell Lmao

[@anvg2902]

@@freepalestina48 lmao

[@proudafricanamerican7586]

Very humble and appreciative. In today’s game these players with this type of attitude are few to none. Much respect Calvin…

[@roadrunnakb]

Growing up watching this man play was almost mythical. A Tight-end body with the skills of a receiver, ready to take off. I remember when the Saints had to double down and a safety made it triple coverage on Johnson and he still caught that pass. Even though he wasn’t able to give Detroit a Chip, he did give them hope. That’s why he will be remembered along with Barry Sanders in the Hall of Fame. As a Saint, it was always a good game with him in it. Enjoy retirement CJ

[@kdotkev5941]

Ima bears fan but I’ve always loved Calvin and was always in awe watching him play. Crazy to think his last game was against the bears and No one knew. He will always be one of my fav recivers oat. Legend

[@slylancey]

Imagine if him and Stafford were on a different team. They probrably would've been in the playoffs consistently.

[@abe9642]

Imagine hes on the rams right now in his prime holyy

[@HeyImJ_EST.87]

Imagine if the Lions drafted Gronk instead of Jahvid Best.

[@L0P3Z_]

@@HeyImJ_EST.87 gronk wouldn’t be who we know him as today. Would’ve just been a second rounder that fizzled out of the league.

[@dajahbrailey9565]

@SlyLancey yea like the Rams. And I'm a packers fan

[@ttg8966]

@@L0P3Z_ hell no. Gronk was a cheat code he Was always opened due to his size Nd his after the catch was incredible. Talkin bout he would’ve fizzed out the league . Talent is talent no matter where you go. He prolly wouldn’t have the rings but his play style wouldn’t have been so bad that he would’ve been out the league. Best TE Ever!

[@ElectricianAl]

Guys like Calvin are Generational inspirations…they don’t make many like him.

[@J.HerbosHair]

One of the best to do it. An amazing athlete, an amazing person. Truly honored to have seen his greatness! HOF Megatron 🙏😭

[@rsp49]

It’s hard to believe that the Lions had arguably the greatest RB and WR and both retired in a similar fashion. Kudos to the Lions for finding such high character players.

[@357twilson]

Greatest receiver was Jerry Rice! Rice was better at 40 than Calvin was at 30.

[@bread1163]

@@357twilsoneasy when you have Montana

[@357twilson]

@@bread1163 excuses. And Rich Gannon was Jerry Rice’s QB not Montana.

[@thebadassniggatomtom]

​@@357twilsonRice wasn't better at 40 than Megatron at 30 please STFU 😂

[@357twilson]

@@Notforjordy question is what are you smoking thinking Calvin was better. There is nothing whatsoever that supports that argument

[@GrimmNastyy]

You'll always. Always. Always be remembered as one of the best to ever do it, maybe even the best. What a career, Calvin.

[@kareemal-saghir4721]

Detroit will never forget you Calvin. We love you.

[@tightend122000]

When I was in college I modeled my game after this man! From his days at Georgia Tech to the Lions this man is the personification of sportsmanship and greatness! Glad he got his roses while he is still here and able to smell them!

[@jamesglenn5259]

Great player, but a much greater man. The NFL can never have enough of guys like Calvin!

[@wiz7190]

Watching this and listening to Calvin pour his heart out in that letter and knowing how much of his heart and souls he poured out everyday for everyone has me in tears literally and made me cry. Calvin, thank you for everything and wishing you the best in the present and the future.

[@1010Huey]

Calvin Johnson is my favorite football player. Intelligent, skillful, and consummate professional. Truly miss watching him play football.

[@africasupreme3]

I was so shock when it happened but looking back he did the right thing, thank you Calvin

[@phillipwoodjr.5593]

One of the best to ever do it!!!! Megatron you the man, honored to be able to see you play. Your drive, toughness along with skill will always be greatly appreciated 💪🏽

[@kmik5682]

Calvin Johnson a True Class Act in all aspects!

[@steveTGO]

Calvin is one of my 3 all time favorite Detroit Lions players. I have huge respect for Calvin Johnson, Barry Sanders and the one and only.... Mathew Stafford, these guys really gave it their all and actually made the Detroit Lions a team that I felt good about supporting and joyful to watch. The only thing that "I" feel bad about is how you guys layed it ALL out on the field for us, week in and week out while the Detroit Lions Mgmt team put such a half ass effort into providing all 3 of you Superstars, as well as, the others with the same dedication that it takes to have a winning organization. Thank you Calvin, Barry and Mathew!!!!

[@AlmostReady504]

Alex Karras

[@S.walkerRanger]

One of the greatest that ever did it, he was the Lions offense for 8 seasons. 81 should be retired in the Lions hall of fame.

[@dopeascopebrother60]

The lions hall of fame lol so calvin barry and stafford

[@S.walkerRanger]

@@dopeascopebrother60 say you don’t know football without saying you don’t know football

[@12savage68]

@@S.walkerRanger just because someone doesn't remember leather helmet era players doesn't mean they don't know football.

[@S.walkerRanger]

@@12savage68 that’s why you do your due diligence before speaking on something right?

[@S.walkerRanger]

@@12savage68 Chris Spielman, Night Train Lane, Herman Moore, Charlie Sanders just to name a few, look them up. They didn’t wear leather helmets fyi

[@jaeger6498]

Class act. Humble. What a star player should be. He never let it go to his head, he was the definition of a once in a lifetime talent. Legend forever.

[@forestcochrane8992]

Maaan when his voice cracked a little at the end talking about having to tell Caldwell he was going to retire, and trying to think of how to tell him all year, that hit me. Calvin Johnson was a beast but i never saw this side of him. What a good guy.

[@kpetry19]

Solid all around brother. Smart enough to know when to walk away. I totally understand. He has a family that will always be priority over anything in life. Much love and respect to that brother fr 🤘🏾💯

[@Original-jews-2.0]

Exactly👍👍👍

[@Does_it_come_in_black]

Thank you for everything. I use to watch you back in The Pitt college days, was there when you broke the record…you were a must watch every game you would get double triple teamed! it was a sad day when you retired Edit : i miss Jim Caldwell he was our best coach imo

[@nybirdman]

He went o GT. Similar colors tho. Larry fitz went to Pitt around the same time.

[@jacksonislegend]

Easily one of the most gifted and talented wide receivers to ever play the game. As a Georgia Tech fan, I remember watching him in college thinking that he was just something different. I knew he'd make a mark in the NFL. Watching him play every Sunday was such a treat. It's a shame that his ankles couldn't hold up but he will go down in history as one of the best to ever play the game. Not only was he an incredible receiver, he's also a great human being. Very intelligent and kind. I love Megatron and appreciate everything he's done.

[@shenanigan3083]

Calvin bro you could be a head coach. no doubt, maybe you still could bring that championship home. Thanks for your unbelievable work ethic... For me it's Calvin then Barry

[@samanderson7745]

As a Vikings fan I always feared the Stafford to Johnson connection. I'm just glad that our secondary was respectable during those years, Calvin would have put up 250+ yards and 4 TD's on us yesterday! Still, it was always fun to watch him play. Dude took some big hits and kept on getting back up. Respect to a true player!

[@johngoodwin5420]

Thank you Mr. Johnson! Growing up as a Football Fan and as a Lions Fan, watching you through those year was truly watching greatness! Now, watching your highlight films, is again something pretty special, you know your watching one of the great receivers of all time!

[@cfishernb]

One of my most loved players. The man played hard. He was and is still a monster in my eyes. I didnt realize how hard he had it til this video. I knew he took a lot of hits as he had a lot of targets but it never occured to me that the defense would hit him harder due to his size and speed. And it makes total sense. I watched the man pull down the ball in what appeared to be triple or quadruple coverage. The Lions management really ruined what could have been an unstoppable force. Stafford was and is great and Calvin was legendary. They just didnt build the team enough. One is already in the hall while playing a shortened career while the other likely makes it first ballot. Detroit really missed out having a dynasty team.

[@dariusdafigga]

Stafford has had good overall stats sure, but I don’t think he should make the hall of fame. Not a hater or anything, but look at his stats compared to Philip Rivers. They are very similar and I doubt Rivers makes the hall either. Only thing that Stafford has to set him apart is that he did win a championship last season.

[@phillipthomas118]

Top 5 best receivers of all time! A class act great competitor hard worker & he loved the game. Left the game the way he wanted to & I’m happy & privileged to have witnessed greatness!

[@jedshilling4918]

Calvin Johnson. My favorite Lion. Gave his heart and soul to the team but the ownership never gave it back to him. Sad. He deserved so much more!

[@encognitusmaximus7598]

This dudes integrity, heart, passion and IQ for this game was more than his body could withstand but was and still is an example of greatness as a team mate, individual player, and as a man. Watched his whole career and thank you Megatron for being you and all you accomplishments (considering the team you played for). I just wish you got a ring at least once.

[@jackfrost6463]

sadly I didn’t start watching football 🏈 until after he retired, but just watching his highlights it’s easy to see he’s the greatest of his generation and one of the craziest athletes of all time. much respect megatron 🐐 top 3 all time wr for me personally.

[@kylerenneberg3069]

Miss you big guy! As a Lions Freak i want to thank you for everything you brought to Detroit!

[@1lifesplash]

ayeoooo

[@kevinadams7830]

I think it's really cool he still lives in the Detroit area. 💪 "Michigan will forever be my home"

[@Aarondemers]

I loved seeing this guy play and respect him so much as a Packers fan. Awesome dude!

[@NYG1991]

As a Giants fan on the outside looking in you have to give Calvin his due credit. He did what was best for him and his family. There just comes a point in your career where you have to say enough is enough. He did just that. Like Jim Caldwell said the injuries just pile up and take a toll on you not only physically but mentally. I'm happy for him. I hope he enjoys retirement. Respect, bro.

[@Annie_Kimono]

What a guy. So brave to know when you’re done. All respect.

[@adambrockie8532]

I have so much respect for him... such a great player! I always hated it when the Lions played the Cowboys because I know he was going to torch those corners and safeties. Such a great humble man. Respect to you Calvin Johnson.

[@TootieOrchid]

Growing up idolizing Calvin it really made me cry hearing him read his retirement speech. Glad he went out with good intentions and not because of Lions terrible management

[@LarryL3g3nd]

Oh believe me it was definitely the Lions being a trash team overall

[@PolishBehemoth]

@@LarryL3g3nd cut the crap. It was because of his Injuries and issues going on. Do you really think k someone as wise as calvin would quit their favorite thing in the world because of team drama? Hell no. He said it in this video.

[@alexescutia4805]

@@PolishBehemoth think it was a little of both but health was the biggest part I do think if the team looked like they could compete he might’ve stuck around another season maybe two but still the top thing on his mind was his body

[@mannydahitman313]

@@PolishBehemoth cut what crap. The lions was a trash team he never said anything about drama. Its risk vs reward, his body was breaking down and they(Lions) weren’t no closer than they were any other year to winning a championship so he called it quits for his own sake. They wouldnt trade him or release him so he did what Barry did

[@yo-yo-yo-yo-ya]

9ers fan here… loved watching megatron in his prime, and this video makes me respect the man even more. What an inspirational player, a role model, and a family man. The NFL was lucky to have such a gracious presence.

[@scottyoung7852]

SALUTE to the greatest WR of all time thank you for all the things you sacrificed to play here in the D. ONEPRIDE 4L!!

[@johnhawkins8205]

I wish he had a ring. One of the best in the last 25 years

[@bigd5315]

We Love you Calvin and appreciate what you did for the city on and off the field! You stay Blessed my Brother!🐐🐐🐐

[@Doomfist1132]

As a Packers fan I always had huge respect for him. I didn’t know he was struggling through that because of how he was physically. I’m glad I got to see him play!

[@IsmaelEYEINTHESKY]

Oh wow i have so much respect for this man what an omission a professional who gave it all he had and left it on the field every game .So humble knew when it was time to hang up the cleats with all his faculties in tact inspite of his body being put under so much punishment throughout his career a wonderful human being ,phenominal athlete i wish him nothing but the best on his retirement from the game there is always room for him in the broadcast booth knowing he is a great hall of famer.

[@DanielLopez-fj9yz]

Man as a bears fan you guys have some of the best people playing for you guys just a good dude! Thanks for the memories Calvin

[@metroboomin8418]

Damn... Calvin is so humble, it makes me sad knowing that he wasted his career on the lions.

[@letter244]

Same way I feel about Andre Johnson. 2 of the best receivers to ever play the game wasted on horrible teams

[@thomasc.5219]

@@letter244 ehh. Andre was good. But I would never but him in the same category as Calvin. Calvin is up there with Moss, Rice, and Larry Fitzgerald. I put Andre in category with like Hines Ward, Andre Reed, Tim brown, and Steve Smith. They are good, not great and not the legendary ones we already said. Greats would be like TO, Marvin Harrison, Issac Bruce, Steve Largent, James lofton, Chris Carter, John Stallworth Those last 4 simply cause of what they did in a Era that was still a run first league and they still put up great numbers. You have guys like Julio Jones and AB who we don't know where they will end up. But probably great.

[@smackette]

@@thomasc.5219 I love this post, but I would have to disagree about Smitty. Of all those Smith probably had the worst QB yet shined. Had he been with Warner, Big Ben, Kelly, Montana, etc the sky was the limit. TO probably leads this list in dropped passes guaranteed.

[@nybirdman]

@@thomasc.5219 in my opinion, I could poke a very small hole in every receivers career. One small weakness except for CALVIN. I’m a giants fan, there is no bias, but there was literally nothing he didn’t do well. Block, play through contract, speed, hands, intelligence on his routes, pure athletic ability. He had EVERYTHING. Even my 2nd best receiver, Jerry Rice, he didn’t play with physicality. Terrell Owens was probably the closest in terms of ability but an absolute team killer and distraction. And was never as good on jump balls as a Moss/ Calvin. There is just no knock on Calvin at all. He did it all and it was a shame that injuries caught up to him so young.

[@metalmadness285]

@@thomasc.5219 The thing with Steve Smith. He had a terrible quarterback till Baltimore but statistics don't lie. For being 5'9 and having the athleticism he had. He is easily top 5 for best vertical receivers of the 2000's

[@ba5647]

Randy moss, megaton, Jerry rice are the 3 best wrs in nfl history

[@gnielsen07]

Julio and T.O. right there with them

[@yossimelamed9555]

@@gnielsen07 more like behind them,but I see where your coming from

[@gnielsen07]

@@yossimelamed9555 Julio doesn’t have the touchdowns Calvin does, but he was way more yards in the same amount of games 🤷‍♂️

[@BondandBourne]

Larry Fitz is up there

[@30h5tillimdead]

@@gnielsen07 with an MVP QB throwing him the ball and a #2 WR to take the load off of him…

[@jamiecolter5156]

Calvin Johnson is the reason I started watching the Detroit Lions. Thank you for everything you did!

[@laynelowe4093]

Calvin Johnson was an absolute specimen 🤩 dude deserved more than the lions

[@tomdonald9232]

Greatest receiver of all time in my opinion, it’s sad to see injuries plagued his career

[@357twilson]

Rice is the best by a mile

[@bugasugapusha1]

The game is forever greatful to you Calvin 💯 thank you for all you did and will do

[@haimirej69]

Thank you for everything you sacrificed Calvin to create the memories that we Lions fans will never ever forget. You're a true legend.

[@m54evabeatz]

AS a Bears fan Im sorry Calvin For all the Games we wanted to Take you Out Your Just Too Damn Good!!! packer bears and lions beat up on each other so bad its Hard to make it in the playoffs

[@imcorrectyourwrong5132]

The Packers have no problem making it to the playoffs. It's the bears and the lions that do. Greenbay Is king.

[@spaceman3671]

@@imcorrectyourwrong5132 they have a problem making it past the championship 🤫🤣

[@amfbolton]

@@imcorrectyourwrong5132 that’s call y’all are the brother that would run to mommy before getting beat up, always crying to the refs or landing cheap shots.