Calvin Johnson trade rumors have been greeting NFL fans on Sunday morning (Oct. 29). Johnson retired from the NFL following the 2015 season, but two teams have reportedly approached the Detroit Lions about trading for the veteran receiver. Though Johnson has retired, the Lions still have the All-Pro receiver under contract, giving the team his player rights should he ever decide to try to make a comeback.
A report by ESPN states that the Lions have given teams permission to speak with Johnson, as the team would likely entertain the possibility of acquiring an asset or two for the retired receiver.
The bad news for the teams showing interest, though, is that Johnson doesn’t appear to be seeking a return to the field. He may just be happy to stay retired and continue enjoying his time with the family.
Johnson on his way to Hall of Fame
These Calvin Johnson trade rumors make sense from the standpoint that he may be more talented than many of the options available in free agency. There are a number of teams that could use an upgrade at receiver due to struggles or early-season injuries, bringing clarity to why teams have been contacting the Detroit Lions. While this is considered breaking news and the teams haven’t been revealed yet, it already has social media buzzing.
In nine seasons with the Lions, Johnson caught 731 passes for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns.
A number of NFL analysts have stated that they feel the countdown has already begun for Johnson’s induction ceremony at Canton. Johnson was regularly one of the best receivers in the league during his career, including a 2012 NFL season where he caught 122 passes for 1,964 yards for the Lions.
More NFL news
The NFL trade rumors about Calvin Johnson aren’t the only pieces of news as most teams prepare for their Week 8 games.
Another piece of interesting news is that Washington Redskins receiver Terrelle Pryor issued an apology to his teammates and fans of the Redskins. He has not been pleased with his performance since signing a one-year deal with the team and made that public early Saturday (Oct. 28).
The updated NFL playoff standings also give an interesting outlook to some important games on the Week 8 schedule.
Coming into the weekend, the Pittsburgh Steelers and Philadelphia Eagles hold the top spots in each conference. One division that could see a shift, is the NFC West, as if the Seattle Seahawks can beat the Houston Texans, the team will take first place in the division away from the Los Angeles Rams.
