NFL players react to news of Calvin Johnson’s retirement

Here are some of the notable reactions to the news of Calvin Johnson’s retirement.

Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson announced his intention to retire on Tuesday, becoming the most recent in a string of future Hall of Famers to step away from the game this off-season.

While Johnson’s future in the league had been the matter of speculation since the end of the season, it still came as a shock for many around the NFL that one of the top receivers in the game would call it quits at the age of 30.

Below are some of the notable reactions on social media from Johnson’s teammates and players across the NFL. 

• Lions WR Calvin Johnson retires

Dang @calvinjohnsonjr man you had more years left man the game will miss you but cornerbacks won't lol goodluck in life

— DeAngelo Williams (@DeAngeloRB) March 8, 2016

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A post shared by Jonathan Stewart (@jonathanstewar1)

Wow 2 of arguably the best players 2 ever play our @nfl game Peyton Manning&Calvin Johnson retire a day apart. You 2 are Pure Class! #TRUTH

— COACH PRIME (@DeionSanders) March 8, 2016

One of the greats of my era! An athletic freak, intense competitor, and true pro! ✊🏾 https://t.co/uzjiHXsAhe

— Greg Jennings (@GregJennings) March 8, 2016

Now @calvinjohnsonjr?! Like a mass exodus this offseason. Changing of the guard in the #NFL. Nothing lasts forever. #MegaTron

— Benjamin Watson (@BenjaminSWatson) March 8, 2016

I'm so happy for Calvin, to go out on his terms is exactly what he is; rare. Somehow I got to play 5 years with him and what he accomplished

— Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) March 8, 2016

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A post shared by Nathaniel Eugene Burleson (@nateburleson)

#MegaThanks

Calvin Johnson tribute video: https://t.co/SRvfxmyfNMhttps://t.co/n0p2Lt8CB3

— Detroit Lions (@Lions) March 8, 2016