It seems like the Calvin Johnson Era is over for the Detroit Lions. The star wide receiver reportedly told head coach Jim Caldwell that he will retire this offseason. Earlier this offseason, Johnson said he was evaluating his options. However, it seems like his mind is made up.
The Lions will miss Johnson on the field, but his retirement does clear a ton of cap space for the team. Johnson was going to count $24 million against the cap, but his retirement will allow the Lions to spend that money on other positions of need. It will also help the team replace Johnson, although it's unlikely they'll get a player of Johnson's caliber.
With the reported retirement of Johnson, Golden Tate becomes the team's No. 1 WR. It's a role he's held at times with the Lions and he can handle being the top option. Lance Moore is the team's slot WR, but is also a free agent. T.J. Jones and Corey Fuller are also on the roster, but they have played sparingly. Fuller is the only player taller than 6-foot-2, and the Lions need to find another big WR to help serve as a red zone threat. With that in mind, here are 5 Players The Lions Could Target To Replace Calvin Johnson.
5. Josh Doctson, TCU Horned Frogs
Doctson likely won't end up being a first round pick, as he's slipped since the season ended. He has great size, something the Lions need now. But his speed is a question mark and he could have trouble separating. At the very least, Doctson should have success in the red zone and when operating along the sidelines. He'd make for a strong second round pick in the Draft. For more NFL Draft coverage, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
4. Michael Thomas, Ohio State Buckeyes
There are those that prefer Thomas to another WR later on this list. Thomas has a great size and speed combo. He'd be a strong addition to the Lions and he should be in play for the team's first round selection. He didn't put up big numbers because of Ohio State's scheme, but he could be a No. 1 in the NFL.
3. Marvin Jones, Cincinnati Bengals
Jones will be a free agent this offseason and the Bengals might not be able to bring him back. They don't want to lose him, but a terrible WR crop boosts Jones' value. He has the size the Lions are looking for, although he's not a No. 1 target. He's best as a No. 2 or No. 3 option. Download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app for all the free agency news and rumors you need.
2. Laquon Treadwell, Ole Miss Rebels
Treadwell is the top WR in this year's class and he might not be on the board when the Lions pick. If he is, Detroit might be tempted to pull the trigger. He doesn't have great speed, but he has the potential to be a smaller version of Marques Coltson.
1. Alshon Jeffery, Chicago Bears
Jeffery is miles ahead of the rest of the free agents. The 6-foot-3 WR is a bona fide No. 1 WR and will command a ton of interest if he hits the open market. However, he might not become a free agent. He's the top priority for the Bears and they don't want to let him get away. It's unlikely the Lions would be able to land Jeffery, but he's certainly at the top of their ideal list. For more on Jeffery's impending free agency, download the Chat Sports Android and iPhone app.
Back to the Detroit Lions Newsfeed