The NFL lost a couple of its best and brightest stars this year. Calvin Johnson and Charles “Peanut” Tillman both retired this year after many seasons battling one another in the NFC North.
Both players can be considered among the best of their generation, and they always brought out the best in one another during their twice-a-year clashes.
Tillman, who now works in media, penned and narrated a tremendous video tribute to Johnson recently. The video, entitled “Dear Calvin,” must be viewed on YouTube because of NFL licensing (watch here). It is both touching and powerful.
Tillman highlighted the character of Johnson as the biggest reason he enjoyed playing against his rival — the reason their battles on the perimeter were so special.
After watching it himself, Johnson responded with an open letter to Tillman on Tuesday.
The respect these two men have for one another runs deep.
They played each other twice a year for eight years while Johnson was with the Detroit Lions and Tillman was a member of the Chicago Bears.
Their competitive duels will be missed by all who enjoyed watching them.