Detroit Lions

Report: Calvin Johnson told Detroit Lions he will retire

Published Jan. 31, 2016 5:26 p.m. ET

foxsports

Is this it for a legend?

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, wide receiver Calvin Johnson told the Detroit Lions that he plans to retire. According to the report, Johnson first told his family and close friends of his intentions before the 2015 season started. He then reportedly told head coach Jim Caldwell and the rest of the organization the same thing the day after the regular season ended.

And while Caldwell told Johnson not to rush his decision and the latter agreed to do so, a person who knows the veteran well said that he's "pretty content with his decision," according to the report. The Lions are apparently still holding out hope that "Megatron" will change his mind.

"Like many players at this stage of their career, I am currently evaluating options for my future. I would expect to have a decision regarding this matter in the not-too-distant future," Johnson said after the season ended.

"We obviously have profound respect for Calvin and certainly understand and appreciate his decision to give proper thought and consideration to his football future," the Lions said in a statement at the time.

Injuries would undoubtedly play a big role in Johnson's decision. After playing in the NFL for nine seasons, he has dealt with ankle injuries and just general soreness throughout his body.

A potential future Hall of Famer, Johnson has enjoyed a stellar career. A three-time first team All-Pro, he has been selected to the Pro Bowl six times. Johnson also holds the NFL single-season record for receiving yards when he had 1,964 in 2012. He has 731 career receptions for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdown catches.

Johnson still has four years remaining on his contract and is set to earn almost $16 million for the 2016 season.

(H/T to ESPN)