ALLEN PARK, Mich. — Seattle Seahawks quarterback Russell Wilson will try to beat the Detroit Lions Sunday at Ford Field. In the meantime, he'll be cheering for the Tigers in the World Series.
Wilson described himself as "family friends" with Tigers ace Justin Verlander since they grew up near each other in Richmond, Va.
Wilson, 23, was an infielder and played two seasons in the minor leagues with the Colorado Rockies' organization before completing his college football career at Wisconsin last season. He's six years younger than Verlander.
"I grew up right near him," Wilson said Wednesday during a conference call with Detroit reporters. "I'm rooting for the Detroit Tigers.
"My brother (Harry) played with him all throughout middle school, high school, Little League ... all that stuff. He played with him and against him.
"I just remember Justin being so dedicated to baseball. I definitely admire that. He's got a great family. His family is so supportive of him. It's pretty impressive.
"We used to hang out all the time."
Wilson said he never got a chance to hit off of Verlander, but that his brother did. Wilson couldn't remember how his brother fared.
Probably just as well.
EXTRA POINTS
Lions receiver Calvin Johnson was listed on the team's official report Wednesday with a "knee" injury. The extent was not disclosed, but it's not believed to be serious.
… Receiver Brian Robiskie was signed to take the roster spot of injured Nate Burleson. Robiskie, a second-round pick by Cleveland in 2009, was released by Jacksonville last month.
