Calvin Johnson
Calvin Johnson Jr., (born September 29, 1985) is an American former football wide receiver who played in the National Football League (NFL) for nine seasons with the Detroit Lions. Nicknamed "Megatron" after the Transformers character of the same name, he is regarded as one of the greatest wide receivers of all time.[1] He played college football for the Georgia Tech Yellow Jackets, winning the Fred Biletnikoff Award as a junior. He was selected by the Lions second overall in the 2007 NFL draft.
For other people with the same name, see Calvin Johnson (disambiguation).No. 81
September 29, 1985
Newnan, Georgia, U.S.
6 ft 5 in (1.96 m)
237 lb (108 kg)
Georgia Tech (2004–2006)
731
731
11,619
15.9
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Johnson was noted for having a rare combination of size (6 ft 5 in and 239 lbs), catching ability, speed (40-yard dash in 4.35 seconds), strength, leaping ability,[2][3] and body control. In 2012, he set the NFL season record for receiving yards.[4][5] Johnson is also tied with Michael Irvin for 100-yard games in a season,[6] tied with Adam Thielen for consecutive 100-yard games, and holds the record for consecutive games with 10 or more receptions. He appeared in six consecutive Pro Bowls from 2010 to 2015 and received three consecutive first-team All-Pro selections from 2011 to 2013.
While still regarded as being in his prime, Johnson retired after the 2015 season, citing a loss of passion for the game due to health concerns and the Lions' lack of overall success during his tenure. He was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2018 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021.
Personal life[edit]
Johnson founded The Calvin Johnson Jr. Foundation, Inc. in 2008.[238] The foundation's goals include dedication to education, training, and social development of at-risk youth and providing financial aide to various community organizations.[239] The Foundation hosts an annual camp called Catching Dreams, which aims to help high school wide receivers.[240]
Johnson became engaged to long-time girlfriend Brittney McNorton in March 2015.[241] They were married in June 2016.[242] The couple currently resides in Detroit. He has a son, C.J., from a previous relationship.[243]
Johnson is a Christian. Johnson has a tattoo of the crucifixion of Jesus on his left arm and a Christian cross on his right arm.[244] Johnson was part of a weekly Bible study group with other Lions players.[245]