Calvin Johnson is stiff arming his way into retirement.

I feel bad for Detroit Lions fans. For the second time in twenty years, they are going to lose their best player to early retirement. First it was Barry Sanders retiring in the prime of his career in 1999 and now its Calvin Johnson. Both put up monster numbers in a Lions uniform, especially Sanders. Both also inexplicably walked away. No one quite knows why Sanders retired. With Johnson, its injuries. Injuries took their toll on him and he finally decided to move on.

So, where do the Lions go from here. Well, they’ll rely more on Golden Tate, tight end Eric Ebron and running back Theo Riddick. All three will see an increased role but its not enough. The Lions will need another receiver. They could go the free agency route and sign someone like a Marvin Jones or Jermaine Kearse or they could wait until the draft and take a receiver with the 16th pick in the first round. This year’s draft class isn’t as loaded as the last two years but there are still plenty of good receivers available.

The countdown to Canton has begun for Johnson but I don’t think he’s a sure fire first ballot Hall of Famer. While Johnson posted impressive numbers, the longevity and playoff success aren’t there. Voters will also frown on the fact that he walked away in his prime. We’ve seen it before. The other issue is that there are other receivers with better numbers than Johnson (Torry Holt for example) that aren’t in. I think Johnson will eventually get in but it’ll take time.

I’m a little surprised that Johnson walked away but football fans better get used to this. I think you are going to see more and more guys retire between the ages of 30-32. The NFL has become a two contract league now. More guys are reluctant to play into their thirties because of concussions and injuries. They’ve made enough money and they might as well walk away while they can.

Sadly, most football fans will miss Johnson from a fantasy football perspective. He was a monster and that type of production will be tough to replace. I know he’s won me a couple of leagues so I know I’ll miss him. In reality, he was a great player. I truly wish nothing but the best.