“Are we really calling for Calvin Johnson? Maybe the Patriots and their fans should consider another retired Lions star first—specifically, Barry Sanders. He’s 47 now, hasn’t played seriously since 1998, and might not be much more agile than Steven Jackson these days. Yet, I’m confident he could have topped Tom Brady’s meager 13 rushing yards against the Broncos last Sunday.
But here we are, a year after the Patriots celebrated Super Bowl XLIX in unforgettable fashion, and just over a week after their revenge-fueled quest for a repeat ended with a 20-18 loss to the Broncos. Already, one of our favorite offseason obsessions is underway: finding a deep threat for Tom Brady.”
We’ve been playing this game since at least July 1990 when Stanley Morgan joined the Colts. Let’s Get A Field-Stretcher! has been a recurring topic here, especially since Randy Moss left the team early in the 2010 season. Moss demonstrated the impact a deep threat could have on the Patriots’ offense during his stellar 2007 season (23 touchdowns). It’s remarkable that for a brief period, the Patriots had Moss, Rob Gronkowski, Wes Welker, Julian Edelman, and Aaron Hernandez on the roster simultaneously, each bringing unique skills to the passing game at different career stages.
Since then, Gronkowski and Edelman have formed a potent duo, both earning Super Bowl rings. Moss was traded at the right time, but his tenure provided memorable moments and highlighted his unmatched ability as a downfield receiver. Patriots fans have consistently desired a similar deep threat ever since.
Names like Larry Fitzgerald and Terrell Owens have surfaced over the years in discussions, though often more for speculation than real possibilities. Currently, Calvin Johnson, aka Megatron, is the focus. Despite his stellar career with the Lions, highlighted by records and Pro Bowl nods, Johnson may retire at age 30, contemplating his future despite the Lions’ request for more time.
His potential departure has sparked speculation about whether the Patriots could lure him, given their track record and the allure of playing for Belichick and with Brady. It’s a scenario that, while ambitious, underscores the advantage New England holds in such situations.
Sure, Belichick needs to focus on more pressing priorities this offseason beyond just adding another wide receiver, especially one who may not be fully committed to playing anymore. What the Patriots really require is an upgraded version of Brandon LaFell. The idea of Calvin Johnson joining the Patriots is appealing, even though it’s likely just wishful thinking given that the Broncos are still playing while the Patriots, who struggled in their last month of games, are not.
However, turning this daydream into reality is complicated by Johnson’s $24-million cap hit next year. He’s not just a worn-out player from the Lions; according to former teammate Nate Burleson, now with NFL Network, Johnson is physically worn down and possibly considering retirement due to concerns about his body holding up at a high level.
Burleson emphasized that Johnson’s potential retirement isn’t about money or a power play, but about preserving his health and quality of life. If Johnson were to join the Patriots, alongside Gronk, Edelman, and Brady, the pressure on him might be lighter, and he could potentially sustain fewer injuries.
Even if it doesn’t happen now, perhaps Johnson could take a year off and reconsider. Similar to Randy Moss, who took time off before his impactful stint with the Patriots, Johnson might need a break after nine years with the Lions. But even if he does retire, it’s hard to imagine it being permanent, especially since great receivers like him usually find a way back into the game until the narrative that Brady needs them is settled.
