Calvin Johnson has formally announced his retirement from the NFL, and he doesn’t sound like he’s having any second thoughts.
Johnson, the future Hall of Fame receiver, released a statement through the Lions that was typical for him: Thoughtful, but cautious about not drawing much attention to himself.
“Let me begin by apologizing for making this announcement via a statement and not in person,” Johnson wrote. “While I truly respect the significance of this, those who know me best will understand and not be surprised that I choose not to have a press conference for this announcement. After much prayer, thought and discussion with loved ones, I have made the difficult decision to retire from the Lions and pro football. I have played my last game of football.”
Perhaps seeking to stave off any discussion of whether his retirement is an indictment of the safety of the game of football, Johnson said he’s still glad he was a football player. He’s just ready to call it quits.
“Let me assure you that this was not an easy or hasty decision. As I stated, I, along with those closest to me, have put a lot of time, deliberation and prayer into this decision and I truly am at peace with it,” Johnson said. “I also want you to know that I have the utmost respect and admiration for the game of football. It has provided so much for me and my family and I will be forever grateful to the game.”
Johnson said his biggest regret is that he wasn’t able to bring a championship to Detroit. The Lions, who have never been to a Super Bowl, last won a championship in 1957. Their two best players since then, Barry Sanders and Megatron, have now both walked away at age 30.
