Even in retirement, Calvin Johnson is still stacking up wins.
The Detroit Lions legend—aka “Megatron”—has landed another major honor, being named to ESPN’s All Quarter Century Team, which highlights the best players of the past 25 years. Johnson joins a star-studded lineup of receivers that includes Randy Moss, Terrell Owens, Julio Jones, Marvin Harrison, and Justin Jefferson.
Jefferson is the only active player in that group, but Calvin’s spot is beyond well-earned. Despite never playing in a Super Bowl or hoisting a team trophy in Detroit, Johnson was an absolute force every time he stepped on the field. Remember that ridiculous 2012 season where he put up 1,964 receiving yards? That record still stands. And that came with defenses throwing everything at him.
What makes Johnson’s career even more impressive is that much of it came without a consistent quarterback. ESPN’s Seth Walder pointed out that Johnson had 1,331 yards in 2008 alone—with Dan Orlovsky, Daunte Culpepper, and Jon Kitna throwing him the ball. That was the year Detroit went 0-16. Let that sink in.
Just imagine what he could’ve done if he’d had Matthew Stafford (or even Jared Goff) for most of his career.
The Hall of Famer’s highlight reel with the Lions is as long as a CVS receipt. From his jump-ball catch over three defenders vs. Cincinnati to his monster 329-yard game against Dallas, Megatron created moments fans will never forget.
It’s exciting to think about which current Lions could follow in his footsteps. Maybe Aidan Hutchinson, Jahmyr Gibbs, or Amon-Ra St. Brown will end up on an All Half-Century Team down the road—especially if this current squad can bring a championship to Detroit.
One thing’s for sure: Calvin Johnson’s greatness continues to be recognized, and it’s well-deserved.
Megatron Still Dominates: Johnson Lands Spot Among NFL’s All-Time Greats
