Calvin Johnson is still reportedly mulling retirement but has yet to make a decision. Charles Robinson of Yahoo Sports reports Johnson’s camp is upset about reports indicating the receiver is trying to squeeze money out of the Detroit Lions right now.
“The camp around Detroit Lions receiver Calvin Johnson took exception to recent speculation that Johnson’s retirement thoughts center on squeezing money from the Detroit Lions or making a cash grab in free agency. A source close to Johnson said the player has no money concerns and is strictly evaluating whether he still wants to play football.”
This makes much more sense than the idea that Johnson is trying to somehow work the Lions into more money.
He’s made a boatload of cash throughout his career in the NFL and has also been able to supplement his considerable earnings with the Lions, which come out to an estimated $113.8 million, per Spotrac.
Johnson has dealt with nagging injuries the past two seasons in Detroit. His old teammate and current NFL Network analyst Nate Burleson said in an interview with USA Today that Johnson is “tired” and could be dealing with fatigue “on and off the field.”
It’s understandable, therefore, that Johnson and his camp would be frustrated with the idea that his decision this offseason somehow has something to do with getting a new contract out of the Lions. If he were to come back, there is little doubt the Lions would want to work out an extension, but only because the receiver is set to count for $24 million against the cap in 2016.