Calvin Johnson, the former Detroit Lions wide receiver, has extended warm regards to his one-time teammate and current Lions head coach, Dan Campbell, for the team’s recent success. Johnson, who had a strained relationship with the Lions after his abrupt retirement in 2015, is now actively embracing the positive developments within the organization.
Recently in an interview, when asked about the prospect of Dan Campbell leading the Lions to the NFC Championship game, Johnson responded, stating, “He’s a dude.”
“When you were playing together, if I told you that Dan Campbell would be the Coach to lead Detroit to the NFC Championship game, you would’ve told me what?…” – @Stugotz790
“He’s a dude.” – @calvinjohnsonjr
Megatron joins the show to spread some Detroit love. #OnePride
— Dan Le Batard Show with Stugotz (@LeBatardShow) January 22, 2024
The strained ties between Johnson and the Lions, stemming from financial disputes following his retirement, have softened over the years. The change in ownership, with Sheila Hamp at the helm, and the appointment of Dan Campbell as head coach has played key roles in mending the relationship.
In another interview on the Jim Rome Show, Johnson expressed the importance of being part of the Lion’s success. He highlighted the significance of reconnecting with the organization, particularly, with Coach Dan Campbell.
“It was extremely important,” Johnson emphasized. “To bring my family back around the organization, to be here at such a time where my brother Dan (Campbell), he’s having success here … it’s important.”
“I’m glad that we’re walking in the right direction,” said Johnson. “And I’m extremely happy for this team right now.”
The evolving dynamics between Calvin Johnson and the Lions underscore the team’s efforts to foster a positive environment under the leadership of Dan Campbell. The shared success on and off the field reflects a new chapter in the relationship between the iconic wide receiver and the Detroit Lions organization.
