According to a report by ESPN's Adam Schefter, Detroit Lions star receiver Calvin Johnson told his inner circle before the 2015 season he would retire at the end of the year.
After the season, Johnson, 30, gave Lions coach Jim Caldwell the same message.
The Free Press e-mailed Johnson, but has not heard back from him at this time.
Schefter reports Caldwell told Johnson to take his time on the decision, and Johnson agreed, though "one person who knows Johnson well said Johnson is 'pretty content with his decision.' "
According to Schefter, after the season ended Jan. 3 with a 24-20 win over Chicago, Johnson shared his decision to retire with two teammates: quarterback Matthew Stafford and linebacker Stephen Tulloch, requesting they keep their lips sealed.
Johnson and the Lions released a joint statement Jan. 6, saying the wideout was contemplating his future.
"Like many players at this stage of their career, I am currently evaluating options for my future," Johnson said in the statement. "I would expect to have a decision regarding this matter in the not-too-distant future."
Johnson is the franchise leader in receptions (731), yards (11,619) and receiving touchdowns (83).
