Calvin Johnson was one of the most talented receivers of his generation. He played for the Detroit Lions for nine seasons in the National Football League (NFL). I remember when he was first drafted and all the hype that surrounded him, it was obvious to everyone that this man had the potential to be one of the greats.
Johnson quickly established himself as a premier receiver in the league, with an unrivaled combination of speed, agility, size and hands. In his rookie season, he hauled in 48 receptions for 756 yards and four touchdowns. From then on, Johnson was a consistent force in the NFL, recording over 1,000 yards receiving for six consecutive seasons. From 2011 – 2015, he had it all; three Pro Bowl selections, three All-Pro selections, and three consecutive First-Team All-Pros. His greatness was recognized at the highest level.
But Johnson’s decline was equally as rapid as his rise. After the 2015 season, he announced his retirement, citing the physical toll of the game. At the ripe age of 30, Johnson left the game and took his place in the pantheon of great receivers.
Johnson’s stats speak for themselves. He finished his career with 731 receptions for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns. His total receptions ranks him fifteenth amongst all time great receivers and his yardage is the sixth most ever. He also holds the NFL record for single season receiving yardage, with 1,964 yards in 2012, demonstrating the pure prowess that this man possessed on the field.
Johnson’s retirement at such a young age demonstrates how brutal and unforgiving this sport can be. I have nothing but admiration for his grit and determination during his nine-year career. It is a testament to his skill and strength of character that he was able to produce such superb results at such a high level for so many years.
Going further, Johnson’s retirement serves as an inspiration for all of us. He is a reminder that we should always strive to make the most of our time here on earth and never take even a single moment for granted. Life is too short to dwell on the past and never too late to chase even the wildest of dreams.
Johnson was the perfect ambassador for this sport and will go down in history as one of the greatest ever. He will undoubtedly one day find himself in the Pro Football Hall of Fame. But even if he is never inducted, his superb career will live forever in the memories of all who watched him play.