Calvin Johnson was one of the best receivers to play in the game of football. Unfortunately, he played on a team that had no chance of ever winning a championship. Oakland Raiders Offensive Coordinator, Todd Downing invited Johnson to offseason practices this year. Could this be a sign of things to come?
Many experts say that Calvin Johnson was not done with football when he walked away. Though he had battled recent injuries during his later years, he still had plenty of juice left in his tank. There has been speculation, that for the right team, Johnson may once again play football. Ala Marshawn Lynch.
A recent report by Silver Black Pride puts a completely new light on the situation. Johnson has said he would relish the opportunity to win a championship. He also stated that he would love to play with other players in this league. One specific player is Oakland Raiders, QB Derek Carr.
Carr is one of the best young players at his position. He recently signed a 5-year $125 million contract extension. The extension makes him the first player to make $25 million a year.
Just imagine the possibilities of that lineup. Derek Carr throwing the ball to Calvin Johnson, Amari Cooper, Michael Crabtree, and currently Jared Cook. They would be the Golden State Warriors of the NFL. There are not enough footballs to go around.
This would be hell on opposing defenses as well. Whom do you cover? You cannot double-team, Johnson. Then you leave Cooper one-on-one. Forget about it. This would then also leave Crabtree on a safety or linebacker. That is a total mismatch.
Unfortunately, for the Oakland Raiders, bringing Johnson out of retirement is not that easy. “I don’t have the freedom just to go,” Johnson said. “I was stuck in my contract with Detroit and they told me they would not release my contract, so I would have to come back to them, so I didn’t see a chance for them to win a Super Bowl at the time and for the work that I was putting in, it wasn’t worth my time to keep beating my head against the wall and not going anywhere. It’s the definition of insanity.”
Calvin Johnson’s career spanned nine seasons. He went to six straight Pro Bowls. However, he only appeared in two playoff games in those nine years. Resulting in no playoff wins. That is all Calvin Johnson wants, the opportunity to win playoff games and championship. Is that too much for a player of his caliber to ask for?