NFL-Lions star receiver Calvin Johnson retires from NFL

March 8 (The Sports Xchange) - Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is walking away from the NFL and into retirement at age 30. Johnson informed the Lions on Tuesday, one day before his $24 million salary cap charge would have gone on the 2016 ledger for Detroit, he was ready to retire. "After much prayer, thought and discussion with loved ones, I have made the difficult decision to retire from the Lions and pro football. I have played my last game of football," Johnson said in a statement. "Let me assure you that this was not an easy or hasty decision. As I stated, I, along with those closest to me, have put a lot of time, deliberation and prayer into this decision and I truly am at peace with it. "I also want you to know that I have the utmost respect and admiration for the game of football. It has provided so much for me and my family and I will be forever grateful to the game." While the Lions gain $11.1 million in cap space with move, they subtract a vital cog to the offense. The Lions announced that the two sides settled contractual issues, but no details were immediately available on the settlement. Johnson made $107 million in football salary and bonuses with the Lions. "A harsh reality of our business is that great players like Calvin Johnson do retire and we all understand that no one player could ever replace Calvin," general manager Bob Quinn said Tuesday. "But rather than dwell on that reality, we should, instead, truly appreciate what a remarkable talent we have had the privilege of watching." Losing a star seemingly in his physical prime is not new to Detroit sports fans. Hall of Fame running back Barry Sanders walked away at age 31. Johnson spent nine years in the NFL after entering the league as a first-round pick out of Georgia Tech. Johnson told Lions coach Jim Caldwell the day after the 2015 season that it had been his final campaign. He also previously told quarterback Matthew Stafford and linebacker Stephen Tulloch of his plans and both players agreed to keep it confidential. The Lions were hopeful Johnson might change his mind. Johnson has caught 731 passes for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns in nine NFL seasons. He set career highs for receptions (122) and yardage (1,964) in 2012 and made a career-best 16 touchdown receptions in 2011. Foot and ankle injuries became a chronic issue for Johnson, who rarely practiced until late in the week because of those limitations. (Editing by Frank Pingue)