MICHIGAN, USA — Monday was declared "Megatron Day" in Michigan for a former Detroit Lions player.
Gov. Gretchen Whitmer announced Sept. 30 will be a holiday celebrating Calvin Johnson, a former Lions wide receiver. It coincides with the Lions' Monday Night Football game where Johnson will be inducted into the Pride of the Lions at halftime.
Johnson was drafted in 2007 and has become known as one of the greatest wide receivers in NFL history. He will be the 21st person to be inducted into the Pride of the Lions.
“Calvin Johnson is one of the greatest receivers of all time and embodies what it means to be a Detroit Lion,” said Gov. Whitmer. “He plays hard on the field and shows up for the community. Not only did he lead the Lions to two NFL playoffs and routinely jumped out of the stadium to make catches no one else would dream of, but he also runs a youth football camp and launched a non-profit that provides scholarships for students and support for small businesses. Today, Calvin Johnson will join the Pride of the Lions and I am excited to officially declare Megatron Day in the great state of Michigan in his honor. As we cheer for the Lions this season, let’s keep living by Calvin’s example and be team players both on and off the field. Go Lions!”
Hailing from Georgia Tech, Johnson was drafted to the Lions in the first round in 2007. He set the NFL single-season receiving yardage record with 1,964 yards in 2012, was selected to six Pro Bowl teams and chosen for three first-team All-Pro teams between 2010 and 2015.
These achievements earned him the nickname "Megatron."
“I’ve lived nearly half of my life in Michigan and consider this home and playing for the fans of the Detroit Lions was one of the best things about being in the National Football League,” said Johnson. “Entering the Pride of the Lions on Megatron Day alongside my family, friends, and former teammates is an incredible honor that I’ll always cherish.”
