Calvin Johnson’s time with the Detroit Lions didn’t end amicably, retiring at the young age of just 30. He would’ve liked to have played for another team, but the Lions wouldn’t trade or release him.
Although that left a sour taste in his mouth, he’s happy to see the team do right by his former teammate, Matthew Stafford. During an appearance on “The Hook,” Johnson discussed Stafford’s departure from Detroit and said he talked to the quarterback recently, who told him that he’s doing well in Los Angeles.
“I was talking to Matthew yesterday. Matthew’s doing well, I’m happy for him because he’s happy that he’s out in California,” Johnson said. “Him and his beautiful family there, they’re loving their time out there. So when he’s comfortable, he’s good where he’s at, you can only expect good things from him, so I look forward to seeing him out there.”
Then Johnson gave Rams receiver Van Jefferson a shoutout, saying Van’s dad, Shawn Jefferson, was his wide receivers coach in Detroit.
“Plus on top of that, we’ve got a friend out there in Van Jefferson,” he said. “Shawn Jefferson, he was my receivers coach in Detroit for a long time. His son’s playing with Matthew now, so that’s pretty cool.”
Johnson said he’s not jealous of Stafford that the Lions granted the QB’s trade wish but wouldn’t move him when he asked. Johnson said he would’ve played for any team had the Lions moved him, and upon requesting his release or trade, the team said they weren’t going to make it happen.
Stafford has a chance to really cement his legacy with the Rams if he can find success in L.A., having a Super Bowl-caliber team around him now.
