Pro football HOFer Calvin Johnson acknowledges Roman Reigns from his time at Georgia Tech: “He was just always like a badass”

Wide receivers play a significant role in the offense and overall success of an NFL team. Their connection with the quarterbacks often changes the scenarios of games within seconds. The NFL world has boasted many elite receivers over time, and Detroit Lions former WR Calvin Johnson is one of them.

Johnson had a comparatively short career in the league. Despite having a sixth straight Pro Bowl selection, he retired in 2015, but still, he is regarded as one of the best players in his position. This WR has recently hit the headlines for heaping praise on Roman Reigns, one of the most vital and prolific figures in WWE.

Calvin Johnson discusses his time with Roman Reigns

Before Roman Reigns became a household name in the world of professional wrestling, he was a standout football player at Georgia Tech University. His gridiron journey, intertwined with Calvin Johnson, sheds light on the genesis of Reigns’ path to greatness.

Teammates during their college football days at Georgia Tech in the mid-2000s, Johnson reminisced about Reigns in his recent interview with TMZ. Reflecting on Reigns’ demeanor, Johnson recalls him as a “badass” whose actions spoke louder than words.

“He was just always like a badass..He didn’t say much, but when he did say something, you listened,” the veteran said about his buddy.

Reigns’ football journey was promising on the field, where he played as a defensive tackle. His exceptional performance earned him accolades, including a spot on the all-conference team during his final season. With potential shining bright for a promising NFL career, fate had something else for him, which steered him toward the world of professional wrestling.

Leukemia also struck Reigns not once but twice, although Johnson viewed this setback as a serendipitous turn of events for Reigns and raved about his former teammate, saying, “My man is killing it out here.”

While Calvin Johnson excelled in the NFL by becoming a pivotal figure in the sport and earning his place in both the NFL and college Halls of Fame, Reigns found a different arena to showcase his exceptional talent. His caliber in the squared circle has cemented his status as one of the most dominant and influential figures in WWE history, earning him the WWE World Championship multiple times and etching his name in history with the longest reign as the Universal Champion.

The pro football HOFer hilariously responds to Lions’ Tweet

Calvin Johnson’s induction into the Pro Football Hall of Fame signifies his impact on the Lions team during his tenure. Nevertheless, beneath the surface of accolades and statistical excellence lies a complex relationship between him and the franchise. Despite a stellar career defined by 731 receptions for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns, Johnson’s bond with the Lions was strained, and his recent tweet activity reignited the issue.

Responding to a congratulatory tweet from the Lions marking his nomination for the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2021, the veteran delivered a delayed reply in 2023, writing, “Much appreciated. Thanks for the continuous support! Love my city!”

Meirov’s observation highlighted how Johnson’s response seemingly coincided with the Lions’ divisional success. The team broke a nearly three-decade drought by winning their first divisional title since 1993.

Their discord stemmed from the WR’s unceremonious departure. Despite signing an eight-year, $132 million contract with hefty guarantees, he abruptly retired in 2015. The team later demanded a repayment of $1.6 million from his signing bonus.

The impasse led to Johnson’s refusal to attend team events and games. However, recent seasons witnessed a shift in his stance, surprising many when Calvin Johnson started to re-engage with the Lions. He made appearances at team practices and even attended a game in the 2023 season.