News: Tampa Bay receiver Vincent Jackson has been added to the NFC Pro Bowl, replacing Detroit's Calvin Johnson, who broke the NFL's single- season record for reception yards in 2012. The NFL made the announcement Tuesday. Jackson led the Bucs with career bests of 72 receptions and 1,384 yards after signing with them as a free agent last winter. Johnson had 122 receptions and broke Jerry Rice's record for receiving yards in a season with 1,964 while playing through nagging injuries most of the year. The Lions listed Johnson on the team's final injury report with knee and ankle ailments. The receiver also said earlier in the season he had nerve damage after being hit in the head and neck area early in the season by Minnesota linebacker Chad Greenway.
Analysis: We're glad Johnson is not going to take any more punishment to his body by playing in the Pro Bowl, and he should be ready to go for another dominant season in 2013. We consider Johnson the No. 1 receiver in all leagues, and he should be drafted with a Top 10 overall pick in all formats. We hope he challenges for more records in 2013, especially if he can stay 100 percent healthy all season.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson, who broke the single-season NFL record for receiving yards in week 16, set the final number at 1,964 yards after a 72-yard performance in Week 17 against the Bears. Johnson caught five passes on 14 targets and finishes the season as the top wide receiver in Fantasy.
Analysis: If there were any quibbles to be had with Johnson's season, they would be that he had a slow start (four single-digit Fantasy point games and one touchdown in the first eight weeks) and his five touchdowns were a huge drop-off from the 16 he had last year and the 12 he had in 2010. However, Johnson played out of his mind from Weeks 9 to 16 and won plenty of teams championships with four touchdowns and eight straight 100-yard games, including two 200-yard games, in that span. If he isn't the best Fantasy wide receiver, he's at least in the top three, and -- in an offense that has led the NFL in pass attempts the past two years -- will be a slam-dunk first-round pick in 2013 drafts.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson missed practice for the second time this week on Friday due to knee and ankle issues. He was a limited participant on Thursday, however, and is being considered as probable for Week 17 against the Bears. Johnson broke Jerry Rice's single-season receiving yards record in Week 16 and needs just 108 yards to become the seventh player in NFL history to reach 2,000 rushing or receiving.
Analysis: Despite Detroit's record, Johnson continues to have one of the finest campaign a receiver has ever put together and will look to finish strong Sunday. He was limited to just three catches for 34 yards when he faced the Bears earlier in the year but the Lions will look to get him over the 2,000-yard mark so he should be more productive this time around. Chicago has allowed over 200 yards to receivers in three of the last four games so keep Johnson active in all Fantasy formats for Week 17.
News: After establishing the NFL record for most receiving yards in a single season last Saturday, there might not be much more for Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson to accomplish this year. Think again. Currently standing at 1,892 yards, Johnson can become the first receiver in league history to top 2,000 yards during Detroit's matchup against Chicago in Week 17. He needs just 108 yards to become the seventh player overall to reach the mark rushing or receiving. "It’s going to be a very tough task," a modest Johnson told reporters Sunday about the milestone. "We have a tough Bears defense that we have coming into our place."
Analysis: At first glance, it appears Johnson is a lock for the mark after also setting the NFL record for most consecutive 100-yard games (eight) and most outings overall eclipsing the century mark in a season (11). But his previous matchup against against the Bears, who rank sixth in the league against the pass, was his weakest of the season as he finished with only 34 yards on three receptions. But injuries have crippled the Chicago secondary as the unit has permitted an average of 19.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts on the season. Johnson has been able to defy matchups in other games and should continue to be viewed as a must-start for Week 17.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson caught an in-route pattern for a 26-yard gain with just under three minutes remaining in the fourth quarter to break Jerry Rice's single season receiving yards record in Week 16 against the Falcons. Johnson turned in his second 200-yard performance of the season as he caught 11 of the 15 passes thrown his way for a season-high 225 yards in a 31-18 defeat. He now has 1,892 receiving yards this season, comfortably surpassing Rice's 1995 campaign (1,848 yards). Johnson also lost a fumble in the first quarter. Six of his 11 catches resulted in 20 yards or more in a losing effort.
Analysis: Johnson set or tied five different records during this game alone. He is now the leader in receiving yards in a season with 1,892 yards, he has eight consecutive games with 100-plus receiving yards, 11 100-yard performances this season (tied), four straight games with 10-plus catches and 44 receptions in December. Megatron's goal has been to reach 2,000 yards in a season and is 108 away with one game remaining. He'll have a tougher time reaching that mark at home against Chicago next week. Fantasy owners should obviously consider Johnson a must-start in all formats heading into Week 17.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was officially ruled active for Saturday's contest against the Falcons in Week 16. Johnson practiced on a limited basis throughout the week and was ruled probable leading up to the game with a knee injury. He picked up his seventh straight 100-yard receiving game, as he posted 10 catches for 121 yards in Week 15 at Arizona, often seeing two defensive backs on him at the line of scrimmage, treating him as a gunner on punt coverage. The Falcons have allowed a receiver to reach 100-plus yards in four of the last six games.
Analysis: Johnson is healthy and ready to go, as expected. He has 1,667 receiving yards with two games to play and only needs 182 yards to break Jerry Rice's single-season NFL record set in 1995 with the 49ers. Even if his streak of seven games with 100 yards or more is snapped, he needs to average 91 yards in each of his final two games of the season. Johnson proved last week that he can still produce at a high level, even if he receives vice coverage between the 20-yard lines. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 17.4 Fantasy points per game this season, which is the eight-most allowed in the league. Johnson is a must-start option in all formats regardless of what opponent he faces.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson practiced on a limited basis throughout the week Saturday despite dealing with a nagging knee injury. Johnson will try to take one step closer to history heading into Saturday's contest at home against the Falcons in Week 16. He picked up his seventh straight 100-yard receiving game, as he posted 10 catches for 121 yards in Week 15 at Arizona, often seeing two defensive backs on him at the line of scrimmage, treating him as a gunner on punt coverage. "Last week we saw the vice on third down. We may see it every snap this week," quarterback Matthew Stafford said. "We'll see what the deal is. Every week's a new invention in coverage, so we'll see." Johnson will face an Atlanta defense that has allowed two 100-yard receivers in the last three weeks.
Analysis: Johnson is the type of player that will produce through any sort of pain and is not expected to miss any time moving forward. He has 1,667 receiving yards with two games to play and only needs 182 yards to break Jerry Rice's single-season NFL record set in 1995 with the 49ers. Even if his streak of seven games with 100 yards or more is snapped, he needs to average 91 yards in each of his final two games of the season. Johnson proved last week that he can still produce at a high level, even if he receives vice coverage between the 20-yard lines. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 17.4 Fantasy points per game this season, which is the eight-most allowed in the league. Johnson is a must-start option in all formats regardless of what opponent he faces.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson will try to take one step closer to history heading into Saturday's contest at home against the Falcons in Week 16. Johnson picked up his seventh straight 100-yard receiving game, as he posted 10 catches for 121 yards in Week 15 at Arizona, often seeing two defensive backs on him at the line of scrimmage, treating him as a gunner on punt coverage. "Last week we saw the vice on third down. We may see it every snap this week," quarterback Matthew Stafford said. "We'll see what the deal is. Every week's a new invention in coverage, so we'll see." Johnson will face an Atlanta defense that has allowed two 100-yard receivers in the last three weeks.
Analysis: Johnson has 1,667 receiving yards with two games to play and only needs 182 yards to break Jerry Rice's single-season NFL record set in 1995 with the 49ers. Even if his streak of seven games with 100 yards or more is snapped, he needs to average 91 yards in each of his final two games of the season. Johnson proved last week that he can still produce at a high level, even if he receives vice coverage between the 20-yard lines. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 17.4 Fantasy points per game this season, which is the eight-most allowed in the league. Johnson is a must-start option in all formats regardless of what opponent he faces.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson posted 10 catches for 121 yards during Detroit's 38-10 loss at Arizona in Week 15. Johnson became the first player in league history with consecutive 1,600-yard receiving seasons and tied an NFL record with his seventh straight 100-yard receiving game. With two games to play, he needs 182 yards to break Jerry Rice's NFL single-season record of 1,848. Johnson's 3,348 yards receiving in the past two seasons are NFL record for consecutive years, one more than Rice's total from 1994-95.
Analysis: Johnson has been on a historic march throughout the season and seems primed to shatter Rice's record at his current pace. The only problem has been his lack of scoring as he has reached the end zone just five times after recording at least 12 touchdowns in each of his past two seasons. But he continues to carry the team's offense as he was targeted 17 times -- his 11th outing with double-digits in looks -- and is averaging more than 16 yards per reception. Fantasy owners should keep him locked as a must-start in all formats for Week 16 against Atlanta on Saturday.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson is active for Week 15 at Arizona as he continues to dismiss a minor knee issue. Johnson was not expected to miss any playing time after he was listed as probable on the team's injury report. He has exceeded the century mark in each of his past six games and can tie the NFL record with another 100-yard outing against the Cardinals. In that six-game span, he has piled up 55 receptions for 908 yards (151.3 yards per game) and four touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson is only 303 yards away from surpassing Jerry Rice's single-season record and could easily shatter that mark if he continues his current pace. The Cardinals could offer some resistance as they are permitting just 197.1 passing yards this season as well as an average of 18.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Still, there should be no debate to keeping Johnson active in all formats for Week 15 during his astounding run.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson is unlikely to let a minor injury prevent him from continuing his recent sterling play during a Week 15 matchup at Arizona. Johnson was a limited participant in practice throughout the past week with a lingering knee issue, but was listed as probable on the team's injury report. Already considered the top receiver in the NFL, he has exceeded the century mark in each of his six games and can tie the NFL record with another 100-yard outing against Arizona. In that six-game span, he has piled up 55 receptions for 908 yards (151.3 yards per game) and four touchdowns.
Analysis: With his latest 100-yard performance in Week 14 at Green Bay, Johnson became the third player in NFL history with at least 1,500 receiving yards in consecutive seasons. He is still only 303 yards away from surpassing Jerry Rice's single-season record and could easily shatter that mark if he continues his current pace. The Cardinals could offer some resistance as they are permitting just 197.1 passing yards this season as well as an average of 18.6 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Still, there should be no debate to keeping Johnson active in all formats for Week 15 during his astounding run.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson hit the century mark for the ninth time this season but saw his four-game touchdown streak snapped during Sunday's contest against the Packers in Week 14. Johnson led the way for the Lions and caught 10 passes for 118 yards on 13 targets in a 27-20 defeat. He caught five passes for 71 of his 118 yards in the second half. He has now topped 100 yards receiving in his last six games.
Analysis: Though he failed to reach the end zone and had his scoring streak snapped, Johnson has been on fire as of late and has averaged 151.3 receiving yards in his last six games. Johnson has 96 catches for 1,546 yards and five touchdowns through 13 games this season. He is chasing history and is only 303 yards away from surpassing Jerry Rice's single-season receiving record with three games to go. Rice had 1,848 yards in his 1995 campaign. Johnson will have to average 101 yards in each of his last three games to reach the mark. He'll try to keep his recent success going at Arizona in Week 15. The Cardinals allowed 58 points and 209 passing yards against Seattle in Week 14. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Megatron as a must-start option in all formats.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson will look to stay dominant heading into Week 14 on the road against the Packers. Johnson had a career-high 13 catches for 171 yards and a touchdown against the Colts in Week 13. He'll face a Green bay secondary that has allowed five touchdowns in the last five games to opposing wide receivers. Last time Johnson faced the Packers in Lambeau Field, he caught 11 passes for a career-high 244 yards and a touchdown in the final week of the 2011 regular season.
Analysis: Of course Megatron also racked up 143 yards and a touchdown on five receptions in his last meeting against the Packers in Week 11. He has averaged 94.4 yards per game with a total of 11 touchdowns in 10 career meetings against the Packers, which is the most touchdowns he has scored against any opponent in his career. He continues to play like the dominant receiver that he is despite a slow start to the season. Johnson is 254 yards away with four games remaining to top his career-high mark set last season. Opposing wide receivers have scored an average of 22.8 Fantasy points per game against the Lions this season. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with the 27-year-old as a must-start option in all formats heading into Week 14.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson had another dominant game in Week 13 against the Colts. Johnson had a career-high 13 catches for 171 yards and a touchdown on 20 targets. His touchdown catch was 46 yards. Johnson now has four games in a row with at least 140 receiving yards and a touchdown, and he has five games in a row with at least 125 yards, which tied an NFL record by a former Lion, Pat Studstill, set in 1966. He also set a new team record for most receiving yards over a five-game stretch with 790. The previous record was held by Studstill at 700 yards, also set in 1966.
Analysis: Johnson is a beast and playing like the best receiver in the NFL. He should continue to post outstanding stats in Week 14 at Green Bay. Johnson faced the Packers in Week 11 and had five catches for 143 yards and a touchdown.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was able to play through a minor thumb injury in Week 13 against the Colts Sunday, despite being limited in practice. He was never expected to be forced to miss time with the issue.
Analysis: Johnson has been a monster yet again this season, with three touchdowns and at least 140 yards per game in the last three outings. Fantasy owners were never worried much about this injury, and should keep him active in all formats.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson (thumb) is not expected to miss any playing time after being listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 13 against Indianapolis. Johnson, who shook off a lingering knee issue, was a limited participant in practice throughout the past week as the Lions attempt to keep him fresh for gameday. In his past two home games against Green Bay and Houston he has combined for 13 catches for 283 yards and two touchdowns on 28 targets.
Analysis: Johnson is on an impressive tear heading into Week 13. He has 62 Fantasy points in a standard league in his past three games with three touchdowns and at least 140 receiving yards in each outing over that span. This week he faces a Colts defense that has allowed 14 touchdowns to opposing receivers this season with 13 of those players reaching double digits in Fantasy points. Johnson is a must-start Fantasy receiver in all leagues, and we expect him to keep rolling against the Colts. He should post another monster stat line, and we hope he can remain hot through the end of the regular season.
News: Detroit receiver Calvin Johnson is on an impressive tear heading into Week 13 against the Colts. He has 62 Fantasy points in a standard league in his past three games with three touchdowns and at least 140 receiving yards in each outing over that span. In his past two home games against Green Bay and Houston he has combined for 13 catches for 283 yards and two touchdowns on 28 targets. This week he faces a Colts defense that has allowed 14 touchdowns to opposing receivers with 13 reaching double digits in Fantasy points.
Analysis: Johnson is a must-start Fantasy receiver in all leagues, and we expect him to keep rolling against the Colts. He should post another monster stat line, and we hope he can remain hot through the end of the regular season.
News:Calvin Johnson scalded the Texans for 140 yards and a touchdown on eight catches Thursday, marking his fourth-straight game with over 120 yards. He also has scored in three straight games. Johnson's touchdown came on a 22-yard bomb from Matthew Stafford where the receiver was in single coverage against backup cornerback Alan Ball.
Analysis: Remember when Fantasy owners were worried about Johnson's numbers when he lagged through a cold spell earlier this season? Nah, us either. Johnson remains the best Fantasy receiver in the game. He should be amazing vs. the Colts in Week 13.
News: As you might have expected, the Lions activated receiver Calvin Johnson for the team's Week 12 game vs. Houston. He was listed as probable on the injury report with knee and thumb injuries. Johnson will face a stingy Houston defense that has allowed 335 yards, including two touchdowns to wide receivers in Week 11 against the Jaguars and will be without top cornerback Johnathan Joseph.
Analysis: The Texans have slipped up a bit defensively as of late and have allowed seven out of a total of 10 touchdowns to wide receivers in the last five games. Opposing wide receivers have averaged 20.8 Fantasy points per game against the Texans. Johnson was never in danger of missing Thursday's game at home, so continue to view him as a must-start Fantasy option.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was a limited participant in practice on Tuesday and Wednesday with injuries to his knee and thumb and is on track to play against the Texans on Thursday. Johnson, who is listed as probable for his Week 12 matchup, will face a stingy Houston defense that has allowed 335 yards, including two touchdowns to wide receivers in Week 11 against the Jaguars. Johnson hauled in five catches for 143 yards and a touchdown against the Packers in Week 11.
Analysis: Johnson will be looking to have another monster game against a quality defense. That said, the Texans have slipped up a bit defensively as of late and have allowed seven out of a total of 10 touchdowns to wide receivers in the last five games. Opposing wide receivers have averaged 20.8 Fantasy points per game against the Texans. Johnson was never in danger of missing Thursday's game at home, so continue to view him as a must-start Fantasy option, even with a tough opponent in Week 12.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson posted his second tremendous game in a row Sunday against the Packers in Week 11. Johnson brought in just five catches, his lowest total in three weeks, but he brought in big catch after big catch to finish with 143 yards on the day. He also scored a touchdown for the second week in a row, his third of the season, on a 25-yard pass from quarterback Matthew Stafford in the third quarter. Johnson was targeted 11 times in the game, with a long reception of 53 yards.
Analysis: Johnson has been making plays all season long, he just hasn’t been able to find the end zone consistently enough. After scoring just once in his first eight games, Johnson now has two touchdowns in the last two. He flew past the 1,000-yard mark on the season, and is already at 1,117 with six games left. Johnson has an excellent chance to establish a new career high in receiving yards, and he is on pace for the second-most receiving yards in NFL history. Hopefully Johnson can keep his mini touchdown streak going in Week 12 against the Texans, a team that was torched through the air in Week 11. Houston has allowed 10 receiving touchdowns to opposing wide receivers, two of which came in this Sunday against the Jaguars. Johnson remains a must-start Fantasy option in all formats for the Thursday matchup.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was listed as questionable for Week 11 against the Packers due to a lingering knee injury, however he was able to get through pre-game drills and is active. He will likely play with a wrap on the leg, but the injury does not seem to be a major concern.
Analysis: A week ago, Johnson’s status was a source of much consternation across the Fantasy world pre-game, and then he went out and caught 12 passes for 207 yards and a touchdown. It is safe to say we are not worried about Johnson’s status at this point; even poor quarterback play has only slowed him down in a small way this season, as he leads the league with 974 receiving yards. Fantasy owners should feel comfortable leaving Johnson in the lineup in all Fantasy formats.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson has not seen many teams more often than the Packers in his six-year career, and he has consistently take care of business against them. Johnson enters Week 11 against Green Bay with 89.0 yards per game and 10 touchdowns in nine career contests. Johnson scored in both of the team’s contests a year ago while totaling 15 catches for 293 yards. Johnson is coming off his most productive game of the season in Week 10, as he totaled 207 receiving yards against the Vikings. He has been limited in the last two days of practice leading up to Sunday with a knee issue, but it is not expected to limit him come game time.
Analysis: Johnson has absolutely torched the Packers in his career, so hopefully he can continue to play well against them. Johnson leads the league in receiving yards at 974, but he has still been a minor disappointment this season, scoring just two touchdowns. If he is going to finish the season strong, the Packers are as good a team as any to do so against. The Packers have allowed 23.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, the 10th-worst mark in the league. This game has all of the makings of a shootout, and Fantasy owners should obvious consider Johnson a must-start option in all formats.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson has not seen many teams more often than the Packers in his six-year career, and he has consistently take care of business against them. Johnson enters Week 11 against Green Bay with 89.0 yards per game and 10 touchdowns in nine career contests. Johnson scored in both of the team’s contests a year ago while totaling 15 catches for 293 yards. Johnson is coming off his most productive game of the season in Week 10, as he totaled 207 receiving yards against the Vikings. He has been limited in practice throughout the week with a knee issue, but it is not expected to limit him come game time.
Analysis: Johnson has absolutely torched the Packers in his career, so hopefully he can continue to play well against them. Johnson leads the league in receiving yards at 974, but he has still been a minor disappointment this season, scoring just two touchdowns. If he is going to finish the season strong, the Packers are as good a team as any to do so against. The Packers have allowed 23.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, the 10th-worst mark in the league. This game has all of the makings of a shootout, and Fantasy owners should obvious consider Johnson a must-start option in all formats.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz stated the obvious Monday by pointing out wide receiver Calvin Johnson's health has improved the last few weeks. Johnson has totaled 19 catches for 336 yards and one touchdown the last two games. "I think he's gotten better over the last couple weeks," Schwartz said, per MLive.com. "He was better this week than he was last week. There's no player that's 100 percent right now. He's able to go out and effectively do is job. Not only do his job, but impact the game the way that he does."
Analysis: Johnson has been dealing with a lingering knee injury, which has forced him to miss plenty of practice time the last few weeks. But since he began his new regimen of resting during the week, Megatron has returned to being his dominant self. At least the Lions have found a plan that works for Megatron and it has also put a stop to the complaints that were coming from frustrated Fantasy owners. Johnson will likely miss practice time again leading up to Week 11 vs. Green Bay, but make sure to start him in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson finished with a career-high 12 receptions for 207 yards and a touchdown during Detroit's 34-24 loss to Minnesota in Week 10. Johnson, who hauled in all but one of the 13 passes thrown in his direction from quarterback Matthew Stafford posted a stellar average of 17.3 yards per catch. Four of his receptions went for at least 20 yards, including a 50-yard gain in the third quarter that represented his longest catch since the season opener against the Rams (51). Johnson's touchdown came on an impressive 11-yard grab from Stafford in the fourth quarter when he stretched the ball into the end zone while being tackled. Amazingly, it was the first touchdown he connected on with Stafford this season as his lone other score came in Week 3 with Shaun Hill under center.
Analysis: So, this is apparently Calvin Johnson limited by a knee injury? Johnson, who was listed as questionable on the injury report, hardly seemed bothered by the issue and surpassed 200 receiving yards for the third time in his career. He also continues to dominate targets in the passing game as his 171 receiving yards in the second half represented more than the combined total the rest of the Lions offense produced after halftime (82). It's also refreshing to see Johnson reach the end zone again after a prolonged scoring drought and hopefully he can carry over that production into Week 11 against Green Bay. Regardless of his status, as long as Johnson is active, he should remain a must-start in all Fantasy formats.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson is active for Week 10 at Minnesota after dealing with a lingering knee issue in practice. Johnson was considered questionable for Sunday's game, but was able to practice last Friday for the first time in more than two weeks.
Analysis: Johnson rebounded admirably from a string of lackluster performances during Week 9 against Jacksonville and tallied seven receptions for 129 yards. He is still scoreless over his past five games, but is worthy of starting in all Fantasy formats as long as he's active. He had five catches for 54 yards while being targeted 12 times in the first meeting with Minnesota this season.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson returned to practice Friday for the first time in more than two weeks as he continues his recovery from a nagging knee injury. The return also comes one day after Johnson revealed he suffered some nerve damage during the team's first meeting with Minnesota this season, which affected his ability to grip a football. Although, the team issued a statement Friday stating Johnson misused the terms and actually suffered only a stinger. While Johnson was listed as questionable on the team's injury report, he is expected to play during Week 10 at the Vikings, according to the Detroit Free Press. "He’s obviously been effective regardless," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Thursday. "He’s had a bunch of different things come up this year, particularly his knees, but he goes out and affects the game the way that he does."
Analysis: Johnson said he was rocked by a pair of hits during the Week 4 matchup against the Vikings and his return to full strength has been an arduous process. "They definitely have a lot of lingering impact on whether it be your neck or your head in (Jahvid Best’s) case," he said. "It can do a lot of stuff." Following the Vikings' bye in Week 5, Johnson dropped at least three passes over his next three games while being held under 50 receiving yards in two of those outings. But he rebounded admirably in Week 9 against Jacksonville and tallied seven receptions for 129 yards. He is still scoreless over his past five games, but is still worthy of starting in all Fantasy formats as long as he's active. He had five catches for 54 yards while being targeted 12 times in the first meeting with Minnesota.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson did not return to practice Thursday because of a lingering knee injury. It has now been a few weeks since Johnson has practiced. The Lions are preparing to play at Minnesota Week 10. Johnson told reporters Thursday he sustained some nerve damage the first time he played against Minnesota in Week 4. He said the symptoms have subsided, but he is still dealing with some aftereffects. "Actually had some nerve damage, so that was kind of messing up my grip a little bit,” he said. “Not to blame it on that, but I think that the concussion maybe could have had something to do with some of that damage I had going on. It’s definitely coming back, feeling a lot better, but it’s the middle of the season.”
Analysis: It appears as though the new norm for Johnson will be to rest during the practice week in order to be ready for game days. It seemed to work last week as Johnson finished with six catches for 111 yards Week 9 against the Jaguars after missing the entire practice week. It's interesting to hear Johnson talk about nerve damage. It just seems all of his health concerns in 2012 could be contributing to his down season. If active Week 10 against the Vikings, then start Megatron in all Fantasy formats. Megatron had five catches for 54 yards Week 4 against the Vikings.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) was held out of practice Wednesday. He missed the entire practice week leading up to Sunday's game against the Jagaurs, but despite being questionable Johnson finished with six catches for 111 yards Week 9.
Analysis: On Monday, coach Jim Schwartz said Johnson was "no worse for wear" after Sunday's game. Last week, Megatron said he has a new practice regimen where he is scheduled to get rest during the week in order for him to be ready come game day. It seems as though this could be a regular routine the rest of the season. But with the results we saw Sunday, it might not be such a bad plan. If active Week 10 against the Vikings, then start Megatron in all Fantasy formats. Megatron had five catches for 54 yards Week 4 against the Vikings.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Monday wide receiver Calvin Johnson, who totaled six catches for 111 yards Week 9 at Jacksonville, made it out of Sunday's game unscathed. Johnson was questionable because of a lingering knee injury, which forced him to miss the practice week. "He's no worse for wear. He toughed it out in the game and made a big contribution, obviously," Schwartz said. “The things that he’s had eventually will be put to bed. Only thing is you cant anticipate what else is coming up."
Analysis: Schwartz added the team tried to take Johnson out for a rest Sunday after he ran long routes and kept him out late after the team was running the ball a lot. It seems the Lions are formulating a game plan for Megatron moving forward to make sure he doesn't have any setbacks with his balky knee. He could very well be on the injury report for a while, but as Megatron proved Sunday he is still a viable Fantasy start in all formats when active. The Lions hit the road to play Minnesota Week 10. Megatron had five catches for 54 yards Week 4 ahainst the Vikings.
News: Despite reports suggesting that he might only factor on third-down situations, wide receiver Calvin Johnson was a key part of the Lions offense for the entire first half Week 9 at Jacksonville, catching six passes for 111 yards. Playing without a brace, he didn't seem to favor his sore knee, though he did sit out the occasional play. With the Lions taking a commanding 21-0 lead into the second half, Johnson wasn't needed as much over the final two quarters, catching only one of quarterback Matthew Stafford's nine pass attempts during that time. On the day, he finished with a team-high seven catches for 129 yards. He also led the team with eight targets. "It's tough to cut off a certain leg," Johnson told mLive.com. "[Offensive coordinator Scott Linehan] called the game plan around that, for the most part. It's successful the way he did."
Analysis: That should pretty much put to rest the concerns over Johnson's knee, shouldn't it? Well, maybe not. "It's probably something I'm going to have to deal with," Johnson said. "It's something that I expect to linger. You just got to stay on top of it with treatments." Still, after the way Johnson came through in Week 9, you can trust that the injury isn't too much of a hindrance. Though heavy coverage will sometimes limit his productivity -- as was the case last week, when he had three catches for 46 yards, or in Week 7, when he had three for 34 -- his upside from week to week remains too high for you to sit him in Fantasy.
News: Not only is wide receiver Calvin Johnson active for Week 9 at Jacksonville, but he's also listed as a starter for the contest. Johnson, who missed all of practice with a knee injury this week, was listed as questionable on the injury report Friday.
Analysis: Reports earlier in the week suggested that if Johnson plays, his time on the field could be limited, and his starting status doesn't necessarily change that. Still, given his upside from week to week, you'd need an awfully good alternative to consider sitting him. This matchup is a favorable one, after all.
News:Pro Football Weekly reports sources said Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, who missed a full week of practice because of a lingering knee injury, is considered a game-time decision Week 9 at Jacksonville. The sources also said if Johnson, who is listed as questionable, plays, then he could be limited to third-down situations. However, ESPN reported Sunday morning Johnson is expected to start against Jacksonville.
Analysis: This is certainly an interesting report. If Johnson plays, then we won't truly know how the Lions intend to use him until the game kicks off. But the fact Johnson could be limited could force some Fantasy owners to bench him for a healthier alternative. There is always risk involved with starting a less-than-100-percent player, but this is obviously Megatron, who is one of the best receivers in the NFL. He also has a favorable matchup. Jacksonville, the league's 23rd-ranked passing defense, has surrendered an average of 22.0 Fantasy points per game to wide receivers.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson (knee) missed his third consecutive practice Friday, creating a bit of intrigue regarding his status for Week 9 at Jacksonville. Johnson, who missed two practice sessions last week before struggling against Seattle, has been bothered by a lingering knee issue. He was officially listed as questionable, though he has not missed any playing time this season. The Lions have been dedicated to restricting the 27-year-old during the practice week in order to keep him fresh for gameday. "Anytime your players aren’t out there, it’s definitely a concern," coach Jim Schwartz said. "He’s done it before. He obviously knows our offense and his heath is the more important thing."
Analysis: Friday's practice was considered a light session so it seemed the Lions would have preferred Johnson participated in the workout. Still, there has been no discussion -- at least publicly -- of Johnson sitting against the Jaguars, but he could be limited again because of the injury. After amassing ample yards earlier this season, he has totaled less than 50 yards in each of his past two outings (80 total), while his scoreless streak reached four games. Jacksonville, the league's 23rd-ranked passing defense, has surrendered an average of 22.0 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Despite his noted absences from practice, Johnson should remain active in all formats for Week 9, barring any surprises.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson did not return to practice Thursday, getting an extra day to rest a lingering knee ailment. Johnson has been on the injury report several weeks this season, but he has yet to miss a game. He said Thursday the reason for missing consecutive practices was simply to get ready to be as healthy as possible for Sunday. The Lions travel to Jacksonville Week 9, where they'll face the league's 23rd-ranked pass defense. The Jaguars have allowed just nine touchdowns through the air, though. Only six teams have allowed fewer.
Analysis: Touchdowns have been the problem for Johnson. He has just one all season. He had been putting up big yardage, though, until the last two weeks, when he had 34 and 46. Lions coach Jim Schwartz made it clear at his Monday press conference that Johnson's recent struggles aren't related to the knee injury that has forced him to miss practice time. He missed a few practices last week as well and was able to play, which we imagine will be the case Week 9. Obviously, him missing practice time is concerning, but there's no need for panic yet. As of now, keep Megatron active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz made it clear at his Monday press conference wide receiver Calvin Johnson's struggles aren't related to the knee injury that forced him to miss a few practices last week. "He’s plowing through. It’s midseason in the NFL," Schwartz said. "He has a tremendous impact on the game and it’s always positive, whether or not he’s making catches."
Analysis: Johnson has one touchdown in seven games and has been held to six catches for 80 yards in his last two contests. This isn't the type of production Fantasy owners signed up for at the beginning of the season, but teams have found a way to minimize Megatron's impact. However, if players like Brandon Pettigrew and Titus Young continue to develop as threats in the passing game, then that hopefully will help take some of the defensive pressure off Megatron. It's unfortunate Johnson isn't meeting expectations, but chances are you don't have many better options at wide receiver and do you really want to risk benching Megatron and not have him in your lineup when he breaks out. Keep Megatron in active lineups heading into Week 9 at Jacksonville.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson caught three passes for 46 yards in Sunday's 28-24 win over the Seahawks. He was coming off a game in which he caught three passes for 34 yards. He hasn't scored a touchdown since Week 3, and let one go right through his fingers in the end zone on Sunday.
Analysis: After the game, Johnson refused to make excuses, but did say his sore right knee made it hard for him to plant his foot in the ground when going for catches. He played on, however, because the team is short on receivers, with Nate Burleson out for the season. Johnson's knee will likely continue to bother him, and he will probably sit out more practices this week, but as it gets better (assuming it gets better), he will see his play return to the high level that his owners expect. Matthew Stafford is still looking at him -- Johnson was targeted eight times on Sunday -- he's just physically stifled at the moment. Despite his recent struggles, Johnson is a must-start in all leagues, and might be a nice buy-low target for owners looking to take advantage of a rough run.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson was absent from practice Friday during the portion open to the media, prompting slight concern about his sore knee. Johnson practiced on a limited basis Thursday after missing Wednesday's session as the team prepares for its Week 8 matchup against Seattle. But he was listed as probable on the team's injury report and is expected to suit up for Sunday's game, according to CBSSports.com. Johnson has posted 100-plus receiving yards in two of his past three games at home.
Analysis: While Johnson is expected to play Sunday, it's not a comforting sign that he missed two of team's three practices this past week. But Johnson is one of the few players in the NFL who doesn't necessarily need to hit the practice field as he ranks in the top 10 in receptions (38) and yards (592). His problem this season, however, has been touchdown production. At this point last year, through six games, Johnson already had nine touchdowns. And Detroit, while still first in the NFL in passing attempts, has been unable to turn it loose in the red zone and Johnson has just one score. The Seahawks are permitting an average of only 16.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers, but Johnson should remain active in all formats as long as he's healthy.
News: After not practicing the day before due to a knee injury, Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was able to practice on a limited basis Thursday. Detroit plays Seattle in Week 8. The Seahawks have locked down opposing wide receivers this season, holding them to the third-fewest Fantasy points per game in the league. In his lone game against the Seahawks in 2009, Johnson was held to two catches for 27 yards.
Analysis: It looks as though Johnson will be able to suit up Sunday but owners should keep an eye on his status just to be safe. He is averaging 98.7 yards per game this year, and has been targeted an average of 12 times per game in his last five. His problem this season, however, has been touchdown production. At this point last year, through six games, Johnson already had nine touchdowns. And Detroit, while still first in the NFL in passing attempts, has been unable to turn it loose in the red zone. It's a trend that will likely break soon -- they'll eventually run out of field and just happen to accidentally fall into the end zone, if nothing else -- and will mean more Fantasy points for Johnson, who has gone over 100 yards in three separate games this season. Even though Seattle ranks eighth in the league in pass defense, keep Johnson active in all Fantasy formats for Week 8.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, who had the worst game of his season in Week 7 against the Bears (three receptions for 34 yards), looks to get back on track this Sunday as the team hosts Seattle. There is, however, a little bad news: Seattle has locked down opposing wide receivers this season, holding them to the third-fewest Fantasy points per game in the league. And Johnson, in his one game against the Seahawks, in 2009, was held to two catches for 27 yards. Johnson was unable to practice Wednesday due to a knee injury.
Analysis: All that being said, nobody's benching Johnson, unless he is unable to play Sunday due to this knee issue. Keep an eye on his status leading up to Week 8. He's still averaging 98.7 yards per game this year, and has been targeted an average of 12 times per game in his last five. But his problem this season has been touchdown production. At this point last year, through six games, Johnson already had nine touchdowns. And Detroit, while still first in the NFL in passing attempts, has been unable to turn it loose in the red zone. It's a trend that will likely break soon -- they'll eventually run out of field and just happen to accidentally fall into the end zone, if nothing else -- and will mean more Fantasy points for Johnson, who has gone over 100 yards in three separate games this season. An elite option at wide receiver, Johnson is a must-start every week, regardless of the opponent.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson had a hard time getting open in Week 7 against the Bears. Johnson finished with a season-low three receptions for 34 yards in the 13-7 defeat and was unable to find the end zone for the third straight week. He was blanketed for much of the contest by Charles Tillman and did not record his first catch of the game until the middle of the third quarter. However, Johnson also had a pair of drops in the loss, including one on Detroit's opening series, which looked like it would have went for a big play. Johnson was targeted a team-high 11 times and had a long of 16 yards.
Analysis: Johnson probably turned in his worst performance of the season Monday night as he was not much of a factor at all. He was shutout in the first half and did not record the bulk of his receptions until late in the fourth quarter with the Bears playing mostly a prevent-type defense at that point. However, give Tillman some credit as he did a nice job shadowing Megatron for most of the night. While Johnson has been a bit of a disappointment over his first six games, it isn't time to panic just yet. The 27-year-old remains one of the toughest covers in the league and is far and away Detroit's top option in the passing game. Fantasy owners should continue to roll with Johnson as a must-start option in all formats heading into Week 8 against the Seahawks.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson will be facing a familiar foe in Week 7. Johnson has gone up against the Bears nine times in his career and has averaged 77.2 receiving yards and scored four touchdowns in those contests. However, he has found the end zone in two of his three past games against the division rival and has hauled in 15 receptions for 277 receiving yards over that stretch. Chicago enters the contest allowing an average of 225 receiving yards on the year. The Bears have surrendered just five touchdowns through the air while surrendering an average of 18.6 Fantasy points to opposing WRs on the year.
Analysis: Johnson has been considered a bit of a disappointment thus far as he has only found the end zone once over his first five games. Still, has has posted at least 90 receiving yards in four of those five contests and is averaging 111.6 receiving yards per game, which ranks second in the league. However, his lack of TDs are the biggest reason he isn't ranked in the top 10, in terms of Fantasy points, among all WRs in CBSSports.com standard formats, albeit he is still averaging 12.2 Fantasy points per contest. Despite his absence from the end zone, Johnson remains one of the toughest covers in the league and his 46 scores since 2008 ranks tops in the league. Fantasy owners should continue to view Megatron as a must-start option in all formats heading into Week 7.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was held in check for three quarters Week 6 at Philadelphia, but he came alive in the fourth quarter and overtime, and Detroit was able to escape with a 26-23 win. Johnson had just one catch for 26 yards heading in the fourth quarter, but he finished with a team-high six catches for 135 yards. It was his third 100-yard game of the season. His longest catch went 37 yards and he was targeted 13 times. Johnson had a 12-yard touchdown catch in the fourth quarter erased because he was flagged for offensive pass interference. A few plays later he almost scored again, but he was pushed out at the 1-yard line after a 21-yard gain.
Analysis: A touchdown would have made Megatron's day that much better. He had one, but sadly it came off the board because of a penalty. That's our biggest gripe with Megatron this season. He has just one touchdown in five games. He has gone over 90 yards in four of five games this season and not many teams can slow him down. He is a must-start Fantasy option at all times. The Lions return to action Week 7 at Chicago.
News: According to MLive.com, Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson said on the radio Thursday and later told local media members he passed an in-game concussion test Week 4 against the Vikings in order to resume playing. "Yeah, you could tell. It was obvious," Johnson said. "I said exactly what I meant, but I guess you could take it out of context. What I meant when I said you have to keep going is you can't be afraid to go over the middle. Not that you get concussed you have to keep playing. We know you can't do that if you don't pass the test, but you can't be afraid to keep on going over the middle and doing what we've been doing." However, coach Jim Schwartz vehemently denies Johnson suffered a concussion. "Our evaluation was he was not concussed," Schwartz said. "He was thoroughly checked. We were very strong in our evaluation. He was cleared to go back in the game, and he was on a protocol after that, and he was cleared then. We're very strong in our evaluation, and as an organization, we have some credibility when it comes to concussions. So just leave it there."
Analysis: Johnson hasn't been on the injury report Week 6, so it seems he hasn't had any issues with a head injury since getting hurt Week 4. It's worth noting Johnson mentioned a concussion, but it should be no worry to Fantasy owners at this time. The Lions head into Week 6 at Philadelphia winless in two road games this season, but Johnson has had personal success away from home. He is averaging 129 yards per game on the road this season, totaling 18 catches for 258 yards and one touchdown. Wide receivers are averaging 147.6 receiving yards and 18.8 Fantasy points per week against the Eagles. Wide receivers also have four touchdowns in five games against Philadelphia. The biggest gripe Fantasy owners have with Megatron is his one touchdown in four games. Despite the lack of scores, Johnson is still averaging 12 Fantasy points per week (standard formats). He is one of the best receivers in the NFL and a must-start Fantasy option at all times.
News: The Lions head into Week 6 at Philadelphia winless in two road games this season, but wide receiver Calvin Johnson has had personal success away from home. He is averaging 129 yards per game on the road this season, totaling 18 catches for 258 yards and one touchdown. Wide receivers are averaging 147.6 receiving yards and 18.8 Fantasy points per week against the Eagles. Wide receivers also have four touchdowns in five games against Philadelphia.
Analysis: The biggest gripe Fantasy owners have with Megatron is his one touchdown in four games. Despite the lack of scores, Johnson is still averaging 12 Fantasy points per week (standard formats). He is one of the best receivers in the NFL and a must-start Fantasy option at all times.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson's spotty history against the Vikings continued in Week 4 when he was contained to 54 yards on just five catches in the loss. Johnson had a 19-yard grab on the team's final drive to push his numbers a little higher, but he obviously disappointed. Quarterback Matthew Stafford looked his way 12 times officially, so it's not for a lack of trying. They almost connected for a touchdown late in the first half but Vikings safety Harrison Smith knocked the ball out of Megatron's paws. Johnson also drew two pass interference penalties including one on the first play of the game. Finally, Johnson missed a handful of plays in the fourth quarter after taking a big hit to the helmet by Chad Greenway, who was penalized on the play. Johnson was checked for a concussion on the sideline before checking back in.
Analysis: Johnson delivered a disappointing stat line, one we didn't think would come to pass even though he has averaged 57.5 yards per game in 10 tries against the Vikings. It would take a bold, brave Fantasy owner to sit Johnson when he comes off his bye in Week 6 at Philadelphia. We wouldn't recommend it given his obvious potential.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is active and starting Week 4 against Minnesota. Johnson was probable entering Sunday despite his ankle issue. Johnson has continued to appear on the injury report without missing any time and will not be limited against the Vikings. He is on pace for just under 2,000 yards and, if he keeps this up, will break Jerry Rice's single-season record of 1,848 yards by over 100 yards. Johnson is coming off an impressive Week 3 outing when he recorded 10 catches for 164 yards and a touchdown against the Titans.
Analysis: Johnson might have some trouble against the Vikings' eighth-ranked passing defense. Plus, in 10 career games against the Vikings Megatron is averaging just 57.5 yards per game. For teams that have faced him multiple times, it's an impressive number -- only Arizona, Kansas City, Washington, and Philadelphia have held him to a lower average. And for a more recent picture of Minnesota's success defending Johnson, consider this: over the past two years, across four meetings, they've held him to just 58.3 ypg -- the lowest, by far, of any team Johnson has faced more than once. Still, Fantasy owners should keep him active in most formats.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) is listed as probable on the team's injury report but is expected to play during Week 4 against Minnesota. Johnson has appeared on the injury report the past three games, but has not missed any playing time while racking up 369 receiving yards on the season. He is on pace for just under 2,000 yards and, if he keeps this up, will break Jerry Rice's single-season record of 1,848 yards by over 100 yards. Johnson is coming off an impressive Week 3 outing when he recorded 10 catches for 164 yards and a touchdown against the Titans.
Analysis: One thing going for the Vikings, who have the eighth-best passing defense in the NFL this season, is history. In 10 career games against Minnesota, Johnson has a 57.5 yards-per-game average. For teams that have faced him multiple times, it's an impressive number -- only Arizona, Kansas City, Washington, and Philadelphia have held him to a lower average. And for a more recent picture of Minnesota's success defending Johnson, consider this: over the past two years, across four meetings, they've held him to just 58.3 ypg -- the lowest, by far, of any team Johnson has faced more than once. Still, you probably aren't going to bench the game's best wide receiver for these subpar averages. Start Johnson as an elite option in all formats, and hope that he has a plan to defy the numbers.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, arguably a top-five Fantasy player, enters Week 4 against the Vikings coming off one of his most impressive receiving performances -- 10 catches for 164 yards and a touchdown against the Titans. With 369 receiving yards already on the season, Johnson is on pace for just under 2,000 yards and, if he keeps this up, will break Jerry Rice's single-season record of 1,848 yards by over 100 yards. And then, to ruin all the fun, come the Vikings.
Analysis: One thing going for the Vikings, who have the eighth-best passing defense in the NFL this season, is history: in 10 career games against Minnesota, Johnson has a 57.5 yards-per-game average. For teams that have faced him multiple times, it's an impressive number -- only Arizona, Kansas City, Washington, and Philadelphia have held him to a lower average. And for a more recent picture of Minnesota's success defending Johnson, consider this: over the past two years, across four meetings, they've held him to just 58.3 ypg -- the lowest, by far, of any team Johnson has faced more than once. Still, you probably aren't going to bench the game's best wide receiver for these sub-par averages. Start Johnson as your WR1 in all leagues, and hope that he has a plan to defy the numbers.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson put together his biggest game of the season Week 3 at Tennessee, catching 10 passes for 164 yards -- both season highs. He also scored his first touchdown, catching a 3-yard pass from backup quarterback Shaun Hill after starter Matthew Stafford left with a leg injury late in the fourth quarter. Johnson's 12 targets were tied for the most on the team. That said, the game didn't start out so well for him. With the Lions leaning on the running game and resorting mostly to wide receiver screens through the first two quarters, Johnson had just one catch for 6 yards at halftime.
Analysis: Johnson was a monster in the second half and a big reason why the Lions were able to get back in the game. Though his touchdown didn't come with Stafford under center, the two were clearly in sync as the Lions fought to stay in the game, with Stafford finding Johnson over the middle time and time again. And clearly, he was a big target in the end zone as well. Hill did well enough in relief of Stafford that you can trust Johnson to continue to put up big numbers regardless of who's under center Week 4 against the Vikings.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, who missed some practice time leading up to the game because of an ankle injury, is active for Week 3 at Tennessee. He was listed as probable on Friday's injury report.
Analysis: Johnson was never in real jeopardy of missing this contest, so he should still be active across the board in Fantasy. Even though he has yet to score a touchdown this year, you know it's just a matter of time before he and Matthew Stafford hook up in the end zone. His upside remains the highest of any wide receiver in Fantasy.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson is expected to play in Week 3 at Tennessee after being listed on the injury report with a minor ankle issue. Johnson sat out Wednesday's practice before returning to full status on Friday. He has missed just four games in his six-year NFL career, but was not in danger of being absent during Sunday's game. Few would have expected that two games into the season, Johnson would still be looking for his first touchdown. But that's exactly the case for the star wideout. It's not that the Lions have had trouble getting Johnson the ball -- he has 14 catches for 205 yards -- but they've had trouble getting the ball in the end zone, at least through the air. That should change against the Titans, who rank 20th against the pass and have allowed five touchdowns through the air this season, tied for second-most in the league.
Analysis: The Lions were in San Francisco last week, so it was pretty much expected their offense would struggle against the 49ers' rugged defense. As for their Week 1 performance against the Rams, yeah, that was a bit fluky, but this matchup should be their best one yet. Because Johnson is still getting plenty of yardage, you know it's only a matter of time before the Lions find him in the end zone. This week seems like the perfect time -- perhaps even for multiple scores. Continue to roll with him as a must-start option in all Fantasy formats for Week 3.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (ankle) returned to practice Thursday after resting Wednesday. Few would have expected that two games into the season, Johnson would still be looking for his first touchdown. But that's exactly the case for the Lions wide receiver heading into Week 3 at Tennessee. It's not that the Lions have had trouble getting Johnson the ball -- he has 14 catches for 205 yards -- but they've had trouble getting the ball in the end zone, at least through the air. That should change against the Titans, who rank 20th against the pass and have allowed five touchdowns through the air this season, tied for second-most in the league.
Analysis: The Lions were in San Francisco last week, so you had to expect their offense to struggle. As for their Week 1 performance against the Rams, yeah, that was a bit fluky, but this matchup should be their best one yet. Because Johnson is still getting plenty of yardage, you know it's only a matter of time before the Lions find him in the end zone. This week seems like the perfect time -- perhaps even for multiple scores.
News: Few would have expected that two games into the season, Calvin Johnson would still be looking for his first touchdown. But that's exactly the case for the Lions wide receiver heading into Week 3 at Tennessee. It's not that the Lions have had trouble getting Johnson the ball -- he has 14 catches for 205 yards -- but they've had trouble getting the ball in the end zone, at least through the air. That should change against the Titans, who rank 20th against the pass and have allowed five touchdowns through the air this season, tied for second-most in the league. Johnson did sit out practice Wednesday because of a lingering foot issue, but he's expected to play in the game.
Analysis: The Lions were in San Francisco last week, so you had to expect their offense to struggle. As for their Week 1 performance against the Rams, yeah, that was a bit fluky, but this matchup should be their best one yet. Because Johnson is still getting plenty of yardage, you know it's only a matter of time before the Lions find him in the end zone. This week seems like the perfect time -- perhaps even for multiple scores.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (foot) did not practice Wednesday. He did not practice last Wednesday either, but he returned Thursday and was active Week 2 against the 49ers. Johnson is expected to play Week 3 at Tennessee and Wednesday was likely another rest day.
Analysis: It would be much better if Megatron was never on the injury report, whether he is getting just a rest day or not, but alas we have to deal with the news again he is not practicing. Well, Megatron missed a practice last week and still finished with 94 yards against one of the best defenses in the NFL. The Titans can't make that claim, so we are expecting another big performance from Megatron in Week 3. Keep him active in all formats.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson did not seem to be bothered by the foot injury that limited him in practice during Sunday’s game against the 49ers, but for the second game in a row he was held out of the end zone in a 27-19 loss. Johnson caught eight passes and was targeted 12 times, finishing with 96 yards through the air, and he caught no passes in the red zone, while being targeted only two times in the red zone. Johnson led the Lions in every receiving category, as he was the only player targeted more than four times in the passing game.
Analysis: A year ago, Johnson already had four touchdown receptions after two games, and he did not go more than one game without a touchdown catch until Weeks 10 and 11, so this is clearly a disappointing beginning for him. Of course, Johnson is probably the only player in the NFL that you can rightly say is disappointing his Fantasy owners when he puts up 205 yards on 14 catches in consecutive weeks. The Lions’ Week 2 opponent, Tennessee, has allowed five touchdown passes through two game so far, but none of them have gone to an opposing wide receiver. That being said, Johnson has the ability to work in the middle of the field as well as any tight end in the league, so the Titans’ vulnerabilities there still work out to his advantage. It is only a matter of time before Johnson comes up with a vintage two-score game, so Fantasy owners have to keep him active in all formats moving forward.
News: As expected, Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is active and ready to go for Sunday night’s game against the Lions, after missing some time in practice this week with a minor foot injury.
Analysis: The injury was never much of a concern for Fantasy owners this week, though their hearts might have stopped when he was first listed on the injury report. Johnson remains arguably the top receiver in football, and should be consider a must-start Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson is listed as probable for Week 2 against San Francisco after dealing with a minor foot injury earlier this week. Johnson was a full participant in practice the past two days after missing Wednesday's session with the issue. Johnson will be seeking to exact some revenge on the 49ers as they were the only team to keep Johnson out of the end zone during the first half of last season. Johnson brought in seven passes for 113 yards in Week 6 last season, but did not score, a rare sight as he had 11 touchdowns in the first eight games.
Analysis: Only for Johnson can a 113-yard performance be referred to as a disappointment, but given how dominant he was last season, it was not one of his most productive games. It's a tough challenge for Johnson as the 49ers held the Packers’ dominant passing game mostly in check in Week 1 with their leading receiver gaining just 81 yards. Johnson, who has made it his goal this season to top 100 yards every week, should be viewed a must-start Fantasy option as the foot issue is unlikely to affect him.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson, who missed practice Wednesday with a foot injury, returned Thursday. He practiced in full as the team prepares for Week 2 at San Francisco. "My foot feels good," Johnson said, per MLive.com. "Just wanted to give it a day to rest yesterday, so get out here and stress it today. You want to stress it on a day like today because it is our big run day for us so you can see how it will respond in the game." In 2011, the 49ers were the only team to keep Johnson out of the end zone during the first half of last season. Johnson brought in seven passes for 113 yards in Week 6 last season, but was kept out of the end zone, a rare sight as he scored 11 times in the first eight games.
Analysis: When the news of Johnson's injury first broke, the feeling was that it wasn't serious. The fact he is back at practice Thursday is a good sign. For now, Fantasy owners need to keep Megatron active in all formats. If his situation is downgraded, then we will let you know. The 49ers held the Packers’ dominant passing game mostly in check in Week 1, as their leading receiver had just 81 yards, but Johnson has made it his goal this season to top 100 yards every week. It might not be possible for him to reach that goal, but he is going to get every opportunity.
News: The Lions' official website reports wide receiver Calvin Johnson was held out of practice Wednesday because of a foot injury. The Lions are preparing to play the 49ers in Week 2. In 2011, the 49ers were the only team to keep Johnson out of the end zone during the first half of last season. Johnson brought in seven passes for 113 yards in Week 6 last season, but was kept out of the end zone, a rare sight as he scored 11 times in the first eight games.
Analysis: The good news is that it's early in the practice week, so there's no need to panic at this time. But now that Johnson is on the injury report, Fantasy owners need to track his progress. Obviously, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy option when active. The 49ers held the Packers’ dominant passing game mostly in check in Week 1, as their leading receiver had just 81 yards, but Johnson has made it his goal this season to top 100 yards every week. It might not be possible for him to reach that goal, but he is going to get every opportunity.
News: In 2011 the 49ers were the only team that was able to keep Calvin Johnson out of the end zone during the first half, and they loom on the schedule in Week 2 as Johnson is looking to avenge what was their first loss of the season, 25-19. "Oh, no doubt. We want to go back and pay them back in their own house,” he told reporters Tuesday. “We're definitely hungry for that one and I'm sure we're going to have a good week of practice this week in preparation to get ready for that one." Johnson brought in seven passes for 113 yards in Week 6 last season, but was kept out of the end zone, a rare sight as he scored 11 times in the first eight games.
Analysis: Only for Johnson can a seven-catch, 113-yard performance be talked about as a disappointment, but given how dominant he was last season, it was not one of his most productive games. The 49ers held the Packers’ dominant passing game mostly in check in Week 1, as their leading receiver had just 81 yards, but Johnson has made it his goal this season to top 100 yards every week. It might not be possible for him to reach that goal, but he is going to get every opportunity, and is a must-start Fantasy option, no matter who the opponent is.
News: Detroit wide receiver Calvin Johnson posted six catches for 111 yards -- both game highs -- during the Lions' 27-23 victory over St. Louis in Week 1. Johnson generated a solid average of 18.5 yards per reception, highlighted by an impressive 51-yard catch during the second quarter. He continues to shine at home as he also produced an average of 18.2 yards per catch at Ford Field last season. Johnson collected seven targets from quarterback Matthew Stafford, which ranked only fourth on the team as Brandon Pettigrew led the way with 10 looks.
Analysis: At this rate, 100-yard performances are becoming the norm for Johnson. It's hardly surprising as the top receiver in the NFL surpassed the century mark eight times last season and exceeded 200 yards on two separate occasions. Despite being held out of the end zone, Johnson remains a strong scoring threat and was brought down inside the Rams' 5-yard line on two plays during the season opener. Fantasy owners should continue to trust Johnson for huge stats on a weekly basis and view him as a must-start for Week 2 at San Francisco.
News: After pacing the NFL with a career-high 1,681 yards last season, Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson has an ambitious goal for an encore. He said Thursday he would like to become the first player in league history with 2,000 receiving yards in a season and shatter Jerry Rice's record of 1,848 yards set in 1995. "It'd be great if I could do that," Johnson told the Detroit Free Press. "Yeah, it'd be fantastic. It'd be a hell of a feat. Of course, I want to be a factor, but we've got plenty of guys that can have an impact on the game, on offense especially."
Analysis: In addition to the glowing yardage total, Johnson also averaged 17.5 yards on 96 receptions last season while collecting a whopping 158 targets. Only Roddy White (181) and Wes Welker (172) recorded more, but Johnson nearly doubled their combined touchdown total (17 to 16) on his own. "I'm not going to put anything past what Calvin can do," offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said. "He's certainly a great player." Johnson opens the season with a favorable opponent in St. Louis during Week 1. The Rams permitted an average of 23.4 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers last season and 19 touchdowns. Johnson is clearly a must-start option in all formats.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson hooked up with quarterback Matthew Stafford for one last touchdown connection before the preseason ended on Thursday against the Bills. Johnson caught a 24-yard touchdown pass, his only reception of the game, from Stafford in the first quarter. Johnson was only targeted the one time in the game. He finished the preseason catching nine passes for 178 yards with two touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson had a stellar preseason and that should be nothing compared to what he does when the lights come on. There are few better wide receivers out there in Fantasy. In fact, there may not be any wide receivers better in Fantasy as Johnson has easily been the first WR off the board in Fantasy drafts. The Lions meet the Rams in Week 1 and should be able to torch them in Detroit. Johnson is a must-start Fantasy option just about each and every week.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson offered Fantasy owners a small sneak peek of what to expect from him this upcoming season during Friday's preseason game against the Ravens. Johnson hauled in five receptions for 111 yards and a touchdown during his limited reps, including a 18-yard score from quarterback Matthew Stafford. He also hauled in a 57-yard reception earlier in the drive and was targeted seven times before being removed in the second quarter. "When a team wants to blitz every play, Calvin can make them pay for it," Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said after the game. "That’s what Calvin can do."
Analysis: Johnson looked in mid-season form Friday night as he once again proved to be no match for whoever winded up covering him. The 26-year-old will face some ridiculously high expectations heading into the upcoming season after hauling in 96 passes for 1,681 yards and 16 scores last year. However, if there is anyone who can meet and exceed those it would be the former Georgia Tech standout. Despite being "cursed" by being put on the cover of the Madden NFL '13 game this year, Johnson enters the 2012 campaign ranked No.1 at his position a sure-fire top-10 pick in all formats on Draft Day.
News: Lions receiver Calvin Johnson showed off some of his customary big-play ability during Friday's preseason opener against the Browns. Johnson hauled in a 27-yard reception on Detroit's third offensive series of the night, which was the longest play registered by the Lions' starting unit. He also hauled in a 9-yard reception on the same drive and finished with two receptions for 36 yards.
Analysis: After posting a 16-touchdown, 1,681-yard season in 2011, Johnson will face some ridiculously high expectations heading into the upcoming season. However, if there is anyone who can meet and exceed those it would be the former Georgia Tech standout. Despite being "cursed" by being put on the cover of the Madden NFL '13 game this year, Johnson enters the 2012 campaign ranked No.1 at his position and likely a Top 5 overall selection in the majority of leagues. Expect him to go anywhere from fifth to 10th overall in drafts.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions receiver Calvin Johnson has been better than ever this spring -- not an easy thing to say coming off a 1,681-yard, 16-touchdown season. The consensus outside the locker room is that Johnson won't match those numbers again this fall. Inside the locker room it's a different story. "You wouldn't think a guy like that can come back and get better but he does," teammate Nate Burleson said. "He's stronger and faster."
Analysis: What's not to love about Johnson this season? Sure, he might be "cursed" by being put on the cover of the Madden NFL '13 game this year, but we'll take our chances. We have Johnson ranked No. 1 at his position, and you can argue he's a Top 5 overall selection in the majority of leagues. We would draft Johnson in the Top 10 of all formats, and he should post tremendous stats again this year.
News: Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson was selected Wednesday to appear on the cover of Madden NFL '13, the popular video game, in a vote by fans. Johnson beat out Panthers quarterback Cam Newton by garnering 52 percent of the more than 651,000 votes in the competition between the playmakers. But with the honor comes what some believe is a curse: The majority of players who have appeared on the cover have seen a decline in stat production, usually due to injury. In the 14 years that the game has had players on the cover, only Larry Fitzgerald and Drew Brees have maintained quality stats, albeit not career-highs. Johnson, who just signed the richest deal for a wide receiver in NFL history, had a career-best 16-touchdown, 1,681-yard season in 2011. He also doesn't buy into the Madden curse. "No, not a big guy for curses," Johnson told the Detroit Free-Press earlier this offseason. "I don't even think about it."
Analysis: Some Fantasy owners are laughing in the face of this curse and plan to draft Johnson with a first-round pick, others are swearing up and down that they'll never take him because he's on the cover (with the non-believers gleefully cheering in hopes of getting him later than expected on Draft Day). The reality is that even if you believe in the curse, you have to expect Johnson to remain a dominant receiver playing in the Lions' pass-happy offense. Though there's some concern that Johnson could conceivably lose motivation to play well with $60 million sitting in his bank account, the culture in Detroit along with Johnson's own hard-working nature suggests he'll still put his best foot forward. Expect him to go anywhere from sixth to 10th overall in drafts.
News:Calvin Johnson would have been a free agent after the 2012 season, and that was something the Lions just couldn't live with. The team and Johnson agreed to an eight-year contract extension worth $132 million including $60 million guaranteed. It's the richest contract for a receiver in NFL history. The deal keeps him in Detroit through 2019.
Analysis: Johnson has the highest expectations of any receiver in the NFL after a 16-touchdown, 1,681-yard season in 2011. Johnson has put up very good to great numbers throughout his career and is clearly a dangerous threat in the Lions offense. We saw him double-teamed plenty last year and even saw him in triple coverage. He's been very good when he's been healthy and his potential to put up big stats is pretty obvious. Though there's some concern that Johnson could conceivably lose motivation to play well with $60 million sitting in his bank account, the culture in Detroit along with Johnson's own hard-working nature suggests he'll still put his best foot forward. Expect him to go anywhere from fifth to 10th overall in drafts.
News: Lions president Tom Lewand, who controls Detroit’s salary cap compliance, says the team has had positive negotiations with WR Calvin Johnson over a contract extension. “(Johnson’s) got a good relationship with Matthew (Stafford),” Lewand told a local radio station in Detroit. “There’s a desire to keep that (relationship) together. When that desire exists, you can get deals done.” Johnson is entering a contract year in 2012 and is coming off a sensational season, finishing the regular season with 96 catches for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns with another 211 yards and two touchdowns in one playoff game against the Saints.
Analysis: Johnson is not going to leave the Lions if Detroit has anything to do with it, and we expect him to get a big deal soon. Regardless of if he's in a contract year or not in 2012, it's clear Johnson is the No. 1 WR in Fantasy, and he should be drafted in Round 1 in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson told Jim Rome on Monday that he's ready to begin contract extension talks with the team this offseason instead of waiting until next offseason. Johnson is entering a contract year in 2012 and is coming off a sensational season, finishing the regular season with 96 catches for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns with another 211 yards and two touchdowns in one playoff game. "We're going to have some talks soon, and hopefully get things rolling," Johnson told Rome on ESPN.
Analysis: It's becoming increasingly clear that Johnson will be a popular first-round pick in drafts this summer. He's been very good when he's been healthy and his potential to put up big stats is pretty obvious. Expect him to go anywhere from fifth to 12th overall in drafts. It'll only help if he plays without that extension in 2012 so that he works hard to earn a rich extension.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson -- who entered the Wild Card game on Saturday dealing with an Achilles' injury -- was simply dominant against New Orleans. Johnson was targeted a team-high 15 times by Matthew Stafford in the 45-28 loss. Johnson caught 12 passes for 211 yards and two touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson did everything in his power to keep his team alive on Saturday. Unfortunately his defense couldn't stop the Saints. Johnson remains Stafford's favorite target and best option in the passing game. He finished the regular season with 96 catches for 1,681 yards and 16 touchdowns. Plan on drafting Johnson toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 on Draft Day next year.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson was active on Saturday night as the Lions faced the Saints. He's dealing with an Achilles injury, but managed to practice during the week.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should consider Johnson a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all formats when healthy. Look for him to play well against New Orleans, and he should be the first WR taken in all leagues in 2012. Plan on drafting Johnson toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 on Draft Day next year.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson is listed as probable for Saturday's Wild Card matchup at New Orleans after dealing with an Achilles injury. Johnson rested the injury on Wednesday before returning to practice in a limited capacity the past two days, including Friday.
Analysis: Johnson should be fine for the game with the Saints, and we consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all formats when healthy. Look for him to play well against New Orleans, and he should be the first WR taken in all leagues in 2012. Plan on drafting Johnson toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 on Draft Day next year.
News: According to mlive.com, Lions WR Calvin Johnson stretched and participated in the first 30 minutes of practice Thursday. Johnson is nursing an Achilles injury, but previously said he expects to play on Saturday in the Wild Card game at New Orleans.
Analysis: Johnson should be fine for the game with the Saints, and we consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all formats when healthy. Look for him to play well against New Orleans, and he should be the first WR taken in all leagues in 2012. Plan on drafting Johnson toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 on Draft Day next year.
News: The Oakland Press reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson is not practicing Wednesday to rest his sore ankle/Achilles. Johnson has been given days off during the season to rest, and he is fully expected to play in the wildcard round at New Orleans.
Analysis: Johnson should be fine for the game with the Saints, and we consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all formats when healthy. Look for him to play well against New Orleans, and he should be the first WR taken in all leagues in 2012. Plan on drafting Johnson toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 on Draft Day next year.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson posted 11 catches for a career-high 244 yards and a touchdown during the Lions' 45-41 loss to Green Bay in Week 17. It was the second time over his past three games Johnson has eclipsed the 200-yard plateau as he has amassed a staggering 560 yards receiving during that three-game stretch. However, he still finished six yards short of setting the franchise record for most receiving yards in a single season (Herman Moore, 1,686). Johnson registered a game-high 17 targets from QB Matthew Stafford.
Analysis: With his 13-yard touchdown reception in the second quarter, Johnson was able to surpass another Lions single-season record. His 16th touchdown of the season broke E. Cloyce Box’s mark of 15 scores during the 1952 season. Johnson gained at least 100 yards in half of his games during the regular season and should remain a must-start in all Fantasy playoff leagues. His 11 receptions marked the first time he hit double-digits this year.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson is active for Week 17 against Green Bay despite dealing with a Achilles' injury in practice. Johnson was listed as probable on the team's injury report after missing two days of practice last week. Johnson leads the NFC with 1,437 receiving yards and 15 touchdown catches this season.
Analysis: Johnson's impressive scoring total joins Lance Alworth and Jerry Rice as the only players in NFL history history with 12 touchdown receptions in three of his first five seasons in the league. He was held to just four four catches for 49 yards in his first game against the Packers, but also reached the end zone. Fantasy owners should monitor his status as the Lions could hold him back, but he remains a must-start in all formats.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson (Achilles) is listed as probable on the team's injury report for Week 17 at Green Bay after returning to practice on Friday. Johnson did not practice on Wednesday or Thursday and he could be limited in Sunday's game against the Packers with the Lions already securing a spot in the playoffs. Johnson leads the NFC with 1,437 receiving yards and 15 touchdown catches this season.
Analysis: Johnson's impressive scoring total joins Lance Alworth and Jerry Rice as the only players in NFL history history with 12 touchdown receptions in three of his first five seasons in the league. He was held to just four four catches for 49 yards in his first game against the Packers, but also reached the end zone. Fantasy owners should monitor his status as the Lions could hold him back in Week 17, but he remains a must-start in all formats.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson did not practice for the second straight day Thursday as he continues to deal with an Achilles' injury. His availability for the Lions' matchup against Green Bay in Week 17 is undetermined. "I had some things bothering me at the end of the game there, so just trying to be as fresh as possible going into the game," Johnson told the Detroit Free Press on Wednesday.
Analysis: Johnson leads the NFC with 1,437 receiving yards and 15 touchdown catches this season. His impressive scoring total joins Lance Alworth and Jerry Rice as the only players in NFL history history with 12 touchdown receptions in three of his first five seasons in the league. He was held to just four four catches for 49 yards in his first game against the Packers, but also reached the end zone. Fantasy owners should monitor his status as the Lions could limit him on Sunday after already securing a playoff berth.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson did not participate in Wednesday's practice in preparation of the Week 17 regular-season finale at Green Bay. Johnson has an Achilles' injury. He stretched with the team, but was kept out of practice for precautionary reasons. Johnson is not expected to miss the regular-season finale. He'll be facing the team allowing the fifth-most Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers and should be in for a huge game.
Analysis: Johnson was limited in the first game against the Packers this season. That said, he still caught four passes for 49 yards with a touchdown in that game. Johnson has 13 catches for 316 yards and three scores in his last two games combined. He continues to be one of the best Fantasy wide receivers in the NFL. Johnson is a must-start Fantasy option for Week 17. He's not at risk to miss the game.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson continued to build on his career-best season, bringing in his 15th touchdown pass of the season during the second quarter of the Lions Week 16 matchup with San Diego. Johnson would finish the game with four receptions for 102 yards, his second consecutive 100-yard receiving day. The Lions would win the game 38-10 and secure their first playoff bid since 1999.
Analysis: Four catches, 102 yards and a touchdown? After last week’s monster 214-yard, two touchdown performance, that stat line looks positively pedestrian. Such is life for one of the NFL’s top receivers. He has established new career-highs across the board this season and is just padding those stats now. Coincidentally, Johnson also had 102 yards and a touchdown in his last meeting against the Chargers in 2007. The Lions take on Green Bay in Week 17, and with both teams having clinched playoff spots, there might not be much for them to play for. We still expect Johnson to be a No. 1 Fantasy WR for the contest, but check in mid-week to see if coach Jim Schwartz says anything about limiting his starters in the game.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson heads into Week 16 against San Diego leading the NFC with 1,335 receiving yards and 14 receiving touchdowns. Johnson has joined Hall of Fame receivers Lance Alworth and Jerry Rice as the only players with 12-plus receiving touchdowns in three of his first five seasons. Since the beginning of 2008, Johnson has 43 touchdown catches and that is most in the NFL.
Analysis: After failing to catch a touchdown pass or top 100 yards receiving in Weeks 13 and 14, Johnson returned Week 15 at Oakland with nine catches for 214 yards and two touchdowns. That was the third-highest receiving game in team history. San Diego has been decent on the season against wide receivers, but Baltimore's Torrey Smith caught six passes for 77 yards and a score against them last week. Johnson should do much more and is easily considered a No. 1 Fantasy option for Week 16. In fact, Johnson might be the No. 1 overall Fantasy receiver for the upcoming week.
News: When the Lions took the ball from their own 2-yard line with 2:14 left in the fourth quarter and down by six against Oakland in Week 15, they knew where to put the ball to get down the field. QB Matthew Stafford looked for Calvin Johnson four times on the drive, connecting three times for 75 of the 98 yards they needed. The only time they didn’t hook up, Johnson was interfered with, and gained 17 yards for the offense anyways. And when Stafford needed a touchdown with 39 seconds left, he found Johnson in the back of the end zone for a game-winning 6-yard score. Johnson would finish the game with a career-high 214 yards on nine catches, with two touchdowns, as the Lions would win 28-27.
Analysis: In the process of setting a single-game high in receiving, Johnson also surpassed several season marks during the game. He now has 1335 yards on 81 catches with 14 touchdowns, all career highs established during the course of the contest. Prior to the game, we said he had been slipping in recent weeks, so it was nice to see him validate our belief that he “is simply too talented to consider benching at this point of the season,” despite the recent slide. It was always just a matter of time before he would break out again, and he did so in a huge way in Week 15 and likely carried countless teams to their Fantasy championship game. In Week 16, Johnson faces a tough matchup, as the Chargers allow the 11th fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers, but Johnson did go for 102 yards in his lone meeting against them in 2007, his first career 100-yard game. What we said last week holds true for Week 16; Johnson is simply far too talented to ever consider benching. He’s a must-start option for Week 16.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has seen his production fall off in recent weeks after a scorching start to the season that had many wondering just how many different receiving records he could challenge by the end of year. Over the last four games, however, the fifth-year receiver out of Georgia Tech has caught just one touchdown pass, while seeing his yards-per game average fall to 59 per game. That number that would rank 38th in the NFL if carried over a full season; hardly the stuff of the record books. Making that even worse is that three of his last four games have come against teams that rank in the bottom-10 in the NFL in yards allowed to receivers. He will try to turn things around in Week 15 against Oakland, who rank just about middle-of-the-pack when it comes to defending wide receivers.
Analysis: The Raiders are coming off of a game in which they were torched for a season worst 250 yards against the Packers’ wide receivers, and they allow the 10th most touchdowns in the league to opposing wide receivers, so it’s another pretty solid matchup for Johnson. He has faced them once in his career, going for four catches, 70 yards, and a touchdown in what was Johnson’s NFL debut. Given his recent play, Johnson’s Fantasy owners would love that kind of line from him in their playoff game, and it still remains more likely than not that he puts up a good game, even with the recent swoon. Johnson is simply too talented to consider benching at this point of the season, and he remains a No. 1 Fantasy receiver in Week 15.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had his worst game of the season, as he was a non-factor in a 34-28 win over the Vikings in Week 14. Johnson tied a season-low with three catches, gaining just 29 receiving yards. He also ran the ball once for an additional 11 yards. This was only the third time all season that Johnson amassed fewer than 60 yards, and it was the first time that he did so and also failed to score a touchdown. It was also the third straight game in which Johnson failed to gain as many as 70 receiving yards.
Analysis: After a scorching-hot start to the season, Johnson's production of late has been merely ordinary. The fact that Johnson's poorest performance of the year came against a mediocre Vikings defense raises some concerns, but in his defense, he was targeted just four times. While he may not get back to his early-season numbers, Johnson is a good bet to rebound against the Raiders in Week 15, so he remains a must-start option.
News: Going into Week 14, Lions WR Calvin Johnson leads the NFC with 12 receiving touchdowns. His upcoming matchup against the Vikings will not only give Johnson a chance to add to that conference-leading total, but help him bust out of a minor slump. After catching at least one touchdown pass in all but one of his first eight games, Johnson has hauled in only one touchdown catch over his last four games. The Vikings have allowed 24 passing touchdowns this season, which is the highest total in the league.
Analysis: Not only has Johnson's touchdown pace slowed in recent weeks, but his yardage totals have sagged as well. The Vikings' 26th-ranked passing defense could be just what Johnson needs to boost his Fantasy numbers back up. More than ever, Johnson is a must-start, heading into Week 14's action.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was able to come up with most of the passes thrown his way in Week 13 against the Saints. He was targeted eight times by QB Matthew Stafford, making six catches for 69 yards in the 31-17 loss. He had a long reception of 22 and averaged 11.5 yards per grab. Johnson finished second on Detroit in receiving behind Nate Burleson (93 yards).
Analysis: The Saints did a good job of limiting Johnson on Sunday night, especially in the red zone, but he was still able to put up some yards. He has at least four catches in all but one game thus far and has posted six grabs seven times. While he has scored just one touchdown over the last four games, he has 12 on the year and should be able to add to that total next week against the Vikings. He gained 108 yards on seven catches with two scores when he faced Minnesota earlier in the year so continue to view Johnson as a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 14.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has a favorable matchup in Week 13 when he travels to New Orleans to face the Saints. New Orleans ranks 27th in the league against the pass, giving up nearly 254 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 23 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts. Johnson has caught 16 passes over his last three contests for 219 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Johnson continues to be a solid option in Fantasy for owners and snapped his two-game scoreless streak his last time out. He already has 12 touchdowns on the year and could be able to add to that total on Sunday. The Saints have allowed 11 touchdowns to wideouts thus far, including two to Giants WR Victor Cruz in Week 12. Not many teams have been able to slow down the 26-year-old so far this season so continue to roll with Johnson as a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 13.
News:Calvin Johnson was on his way to another touchdownless game when he snared a pass from Matthew Stafford from 3 yards out with 0:11 left against the Packers on Thanksgiving. That score made Johnson's day as he finished with four catches for 49 yards with the score. Johnson went over the 1,000 receiving yard mark for the season, becoming the first player in Lions’ history to gain 1,000 receiving yards in three of his first five seasons.
Analysis: Johnson was on the verge of going without a score for his third straight game when he got the touchdown, his 12th of the season. Calvin Johnson has had at least eight Fantasy points (13 in a PPR) in every single game this season. You'd have to be nuts to sit him when he plays at New Orleans in Week 13.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson returned to practice on a limited basis on Wednesday after sitting out the day before due to an ankle injury. He is being considered as probable for Week 12 against the Packers. Green Bay ranks 31st in the league in pass defense, giving up over 289 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 25.4 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Johnson finished with 89 yards on five receptions during a win over Carolina in Week 11 -- the ninth time in 10 games this season he has topped at least 80 receiving yards. He also has 11 touchdown grabs on the year and should be good to go for Thanksgiving. The Packers have not done very well against the pass this season, which bodes well for the 26-year-old. As long as he is active, consider Johnson a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson left Tuesday's practice as the Lions prepared for their Week 12 matchup against Green Bay. Johnson was a full participant in practice Monday, but was listed on the injury report with an ankle issue. "I'll be alright," he told reporters. The star 26-year-old finished with 89 yards on five receptions during a win over Carolina in Week 11 -- the ninth time in 10 games this season he has topped at least 80 receiving yards.
Analysis: Johnson's departure was reportedly not injury-related but with the Lions facing a quick turnaround before Thursday's game, the team is likely to go easy on him in practice. Johnson, who had two touchdowns in two games against the Packers last season, should play during the key NFC North showdown. Fantasy owners should continue to monitor Johnson's status, but he remains a must-start in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was a full participant in practice on Monday but was listed on the practice report as having an ankle injury. He caught five passes for 89 yards in Sunday's win over the Panthers. Detroit takes on Green Bay in Week 12.
Analysis: The Lions have a short turnaround as they will be playing on Thursday night so don't be surprised if they take it easy on Johnson with the short week. He has been held out of the end zone each of the past two games but has 12 catches for 170 yards over that span as he continues to have a breakout campaign for Detroit. He caught seven passes for 130 yards and two touchdowns in two games against the Packers a year ago so continue to roll with Johnson as a must-start Fantasy WR for Week 12.
News: In Week 11, Matthew Stafford connected for five touchdown passes and threw for 335 yards. Normally you'd figure Calvin Johnson would be among the big contributors, but he wasn't here. Nate Burleson, Kevin Smith, Tony Scheffler, Brandon Pettigrew and Titus Young all scored, but Johnson did not. He did end up with 89 yards on five catches to lead the team, including a nice 30-yard catch in double coverage.
Analysis: Sound the alarms: Johnson hasn't scored or total over 100 receiving yards in two straight games. That's definitely a result of defenses keying in on him and Stafford finding other targets. We'd still stick with Johnson as a No. 1 Fantasy WR despite the "cold streak" he's on; his matchup vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving is plenty juicy -- he scored on them twice in his first meeting against them in 2010 and has eight career touchdowns against them (seven games).
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson said he passed a concussion test after receiving a jarring hit from Chicago LB Lance Briggs during the Lions' loss in Week 10, according to the Detroit Free Press. Johnson, who left the game after the fourth-quarter hit, described the play as getting his "bell rung." He said he is not expected to miss any playing time and should be on the field against Carolina in Week 11.
Analysis: Johnson seems to have dodged a serious injury scare, especially with the growing number of concussions spreading throughout the NFL this season. Johnson, who insisted Briggs' play was a clean hit, finished with 81 yards on seven receptions as his stretch of consecutive outings with 100-plus yards ended at four games. Fantasy owners should still keep an eye on his practice status, but he appears set to play in Week 11.
News: Detroit QB Matthew Stafford hit WR Calvin Johnson on the first play of the day for the Lions. It went downhill for Stafford and Johnson after that. He would fumble for the first time since 2009 later on the opening drive. Johnson was targeted a team-high 19 times, but caught just seven passes for 81 yards. He also took a hard hit from Lance Briggs late in the game, but no injury on him was released. He did not return to the field after that hit however, but the game was well out of reach. The Lions would lose to the Bears, 37-13.
Analysis: Johnson failed to score a touchdown in Week 11, but is still just one score away from matching his career high. He now has six catches of 40-plus yards on the year. The Lions face the Panthers in Week 11, a team that has allowed 11 passing touchdowns so far this season and is giving up 223.9 passing yards per contest. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on him during the week, but as long as he's healthy Johnson is a No. 1 WR option.
News: After matching an NFL record with 11 touchdowns in his first eight games, Lions WR Calvin Johnson comes off the bye week looking to add to that total in Week 10 against the Bears. When he faced the division rival earlier in the year, he caught five passes for 130 yards with a score. Chicago enters Sunday ranked 26th in the league in pass defense, giving up over 264 yards per game, and have allowed an average of 19.7 Fantasy points to opposing wideouts.
Analysis: Johnson has gotten off to a torrid start this season and is just one touchdown away from matching his previous career high. He has five catches of 40-plus yards and has put up at least 100 yards receiving in each of his last four games. Few teams have been able to slow him down thus far and he should be in for another productive performance on Sunday against the Bears, who he carved up earlier in the year. Continue to view Johnson as a must-start fantasy WR for Week 10.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson had six receptions for 125 yards and a touchdown during the Lions' 45-10 victory at Denver in Week 8. Johnson hauled in a 56-yard pass from QB Matthew Stafford during the third quarter for his 11th touchdown reception of the season. He joins Randy Moss as the only players since the 1970 AFL-NFL merger to record 11 touchdowns in his team's first eight games of the season.
Analysis: Johnson continued his sterling campaign and reached 100 receiving yards for the fourth consecutive game and fifth overall of the season. He leads the NFL with his impressive touchdown total and now has 44 scores in his five-year career. Johnson is also on pace to shatter his career high of 1,331 receiving yards as he is averaging 16.6 yards per catch. Consider him a must-start in Week 10 against Chicago's following Detroit's bye.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson leads the NFL with 10 touchdown catches and is the first player in franchise history with three 10-score seasons (12 in 2008 and 2010). He is also averaging an astounding 97 yards per game this season. But the fifth-year receiver didn't express overconfidence when discussing the lowly Denver defense, the Lions' opponent in Week 8. “They’ve got some savvy veterans,” he said. “We need to come out with our mind right, and get the win."
Analysis: Johnson is the second player since 1970 with 10 receiving touchdowns in his team’s first seven games to start a season (Randy Moss). The star wideout will see plenty of Broncos’ perennial Pro Bowler Champ Bailey, one of top cornerbacks in league at age 33, during the Sunday's game. Denver is yielding an average of 26.3 Fantasy points per game to opposing receivers this year and permitted five receiving touchdowns over its past three games. Continue to consider Johnson a must-start in all Fantasy formats for Week 8.
News: For nearly three quarters, the visiting Falcons were able to shut down Lions WR Calvin Johnson in Week 7. In fact, he had just one catch for 25 yards in the first half. But with less than two minutes remaining in the third quarter, he delivered the kind of big play that he seems to deliver every week, catching a short pass over the middle from QB Matthew Stafford and breaking a couple of tackles to take it 57 yards for a touchdown. In the end, he had his usual monster numbers, catching five passes for 115 yards on 11 targets.
Analysis: As larger-than-life as Johnson has been all season, he wasn't quite the dominating force he usually is in Week 7. Yet in the end, he still delivered exactly the kind of numbers Fantasy owners have come to expect from him. With 10 touchdowns in seven games -- a number most wide receivers would hope to achieve over an entire season -- Johnson is seemingly incapable of disappointing in Fantasy, in part because his monstrous size gives him a knack for making something out of nothing, as was the case Sunday. Keep the Fantasy stud active as always for Week 8 at Denver.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who went without a touchdown for the first time all season Week 6 against the 49ers, has a favorable matchup for a bounce-back performance in Week 7. The visiting Falcons rank 27th against the pass, allowing 283.3 yards per game, and have allowed the eighth-most Fantasy points per game to wide receivers. Johnson should also benefit from the recent emergence of TE Brandon Pettigrew, who has scored in back-to-back games. "The issue with the Lions is they have a very good tight end who has two less catches than Johnson," Falcons coach Mike Smith said. "It creates a quandary in terms of how we’re going to defend the passing game."
Analysis: Johnson's performance last week was his worst in Fantasy terms this season, and yet he still had seven catches for 113 yards. With the emergence of QB Matthew Stafford, Johnson has become the most reliable wide receiver in Fantasy, and you have no reason to believe he's going to have less than a stellar performance against the Falcons. Keep him active in all Fantasy leagues.
News: After scoring at least one touchdown in each of the season's first five games, Lions WR Calvin Johnson was kept out of the end zone in a Week 6 loss to the 49ers. He did manage to exceed 100 receiving yards in the 25-19 defeat, making seven catches for a team-leading 113 yards. It was the third time this season that Johnson amassed more than 100 receiving yards in a game. The first of Johnson's seven receptions was the 300th of his career. Johnson's biggest catch came early in the fourth quarter, when he made a 41-yard play to get the ball to the Lions' own 49-yard line, but the offense couldn't capitalize on the big gain.
Analysis: For most wide receivers, Johnson's Week 6 effort would have represented a good output for an afternoon, but it was his worst Fantasy performance of the season. Though owners may be disappointed that he didn't find the end zone, there was nothing about this week's effort that should discourage anyone from starting him in any format. Johnson will also get the benefit of a favorable matchup against the Falcons in Week 7.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has started off his season on a record pace, becoming the first player to make nine touchdown catches over the first five games of the season. He is on pace to shatter Randy Moss' all-time record of 23 touchdown receptions in a season, set four years ago. Johnson has a good chance to keep up his pace in Week 6, as he will face go up against a 49ers defense that has allowed seven touchdown receptions this season. Five of those seven catches have been made by wide receivers. Johnson could also have a big day yardage-wise, as the Niners rank ninth in most passing yards allowed.
Analysis: Matchups don't matter much for Johnson, who has established himself as an elite receiver. It helps that his Week 6 matchup against San Francisco is a favorable one, but in any event, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR option in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson notched his ninth touchdown reception of the season in Week 5 against the Bears. Johnson was on the receiving end of a 73-yard touchdown strike from Matthew Stafford in the second quarter, which put the Lions up 7-0. He finished with a team-high five receptions for 130 yards in the contest and became the first player in NFL history with nine touchdown receptions through the first five games of the season. Johnson was targeted six times in the 24-13 victory, while averaging 26 yards per reception.
Analysis: Johnson was unable to become the first player in league history to record two scores in five consecutive games on Monday night, but still turned another outstanding performance. The 26-year-old has now scored at least one touchdown in every game this season and his 130 receiving yards were a season high. Johnson has clearly taken his game to another level this season and looks to have established himself as the best wideout in the league. His nine receiving touchdowns are tops in the NFL with plenty of room to spare and he has actually notched 38 receiving touchdowns since the start of the 2008 season (first in the NFL). Consider Megatron a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 6 against the 49ers.
News: As expected, Lions WR Calvin Johnson has been ruled active for Week 5 against the Bears. He was listed on the team's injury reports as probable due to an ankle injury, but was able to practice in full on Thursday and Friday. Johnson, who has 37 receiving touchdowns since the start of the 2008 season (first in the NFL), can become the first player in league history to record two scores in five consecutive games. In Week 4, he became the only player in history with two receiving touchdowns in each of the first four games of the year.
Analysis: Johnson's status was never really in doubt heading into Monday night, especially after he was able to practice in full last week. The 26-year-old has gotten off to red-hot start this season, racking up a league-leading eight touchdowns thus far. He will now face a Bears' defense that is yielding an average of 21.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Get Johnson active in all formats, now that he has officially been ruled active.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson is listed as probable on the team's injury report with an ankle issue, but is expected to play without hesitation in Week 5 against Chicago. Johnson, who has 37 receiving touchdowns since the start of the 2008 season (first in the NFL), can become the first player in league history to record two scores in five consecutive games. In Week 4, he became the only player in history with two receiving touchdowns in each of the first four games of the year.
Analysis: Johnson's impressive touchdown total (eight) clearly leads the NFL and is more than the total receiving touchdowns managed by 23 teams this season. Johnson was listed on the team's practice report throughout the week, but was a full participant in every session. The Bears are yielding an average of 21.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Consider Johnson a must-start in all Fantasy formats for Week 5.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson will look to make another historical impact in Week 5 when the Lions face divisional rival Chicago. Johnson, who has 37 receiving touchdowns since the start of the 2008 season (first in the NFL), can become the first player in league history to record two scores in five consecutive games. In Week 4, he became the only player in history with two receiving touchdowns in each of the first four games of the year.
Analysis: Johnson's impressive touchdown total (eight) clearly leads the NFL and is more than the total receiving touchdowns managed by 23 teams this season. “We have a lot of chemistry here,” Johnson said of his connection with QB Matthew Stafford. Johnson was listed on the team's practice report Thursday as a full participant despite a minor ankle issue, but is expected to play Sunday. The Bears are yielding an average of 21.2 Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts this year. Consider Johnson a must-start in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson became the first wide receiver in the history of the NFL to score two touchdowns in each of his first four games of a season with a pair of scores against the Cowboys in Week 4. He caught eight passes for 96 yards, including the game-winning touchdown in Detroit's come-from-behind 34-30 win.
Analysis: Johnson was targeted a team-high 13 times in the game. The passing game got off to a slow start with Matthew Stafford failing to get into a groove but once the Lions began forcing the ball Johnson's way in the second half, things began to click. Johnson continues to physically over-match any defender who attempts to cover him and -- even in situations where everybody knows the ball is going his way -- seems to be impossible to cover. He'll match up against a division rival in Week 5 against the Bears and should remain a must-start in Fantasy no matter who he is up against.
News: As expected, Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) was activated for Week 4 at the Cowboys. He had been listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Fantasy owners should know the deal by now. Johnson is rested in practice each week and is listed on the injury report. He isn't actually expected to miss any games. He was limited in practice all week after sitting out Wednesday. Johnson will be looking to maintain his monstrous momentum in Week 4 at Dallas, coming off three consecutive games with two touchdowns to begin the season. Johnson ranks second among all receivers in standard-scoring leagues in terms of Fantasy points after three weeks. The Cowboys rank 12th in the NFL against the pass through the first three weeks of the season, allowing 226.7 passing yards per game. They have allowed five touchdown passes.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 4 at Dallas. He was limited in practice all week after sitting out Wednesday. Johnson will be looking to maintain his monstrous momentum in Week 4 at Dallas, coming off three consecutive games with two touchdowns to begin the season. Johnson ranks second among all receivers in standard-scoring leagues in terms of Fantasy points after three weeks. The Cowboys rank 12th in the NFL against the pass through the first three weeks of the season, allowing 226.7 passing yards per game. They have allowed five touchdown passes.
Analysis: Johnson has been on the injury report a few weeks with this ankle injury, but he has yet to miss a game. It seems the Lions are going to rest him during the week so he is ready to play on Sunday. The Cowboys still have some secondary issues, so this is another good matchup for Megatron. Keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will be looking to maintain his monstrous momentum in Week 4 at Dallas, coming off three consecutive games with two touchdowns to begin the season. Johnson ranks second among all receivers in standard-scoring leagues in terms of Fantasy points after three weeks. The Cowboys rank 12th in the NFL against the pass through the first three weeks og the season, allowing 226.7 passing yards per game. They have allowed five touchdown passes.
Analysis: Johnson did not practice on Wednesday, something that has become the norm for him as the team looks to keep their star receiver as fresh as possible. He should be above matchup-based starting in all Fantasy formats and remains one of the elite options in Fantasy as long as he can remain healthy.
News: Lions Rapid Reporter John Kreger reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson did not practice on Wednesday, resting shoulder and ankle injuries. Johnson recorded his third-straight two touchdown game for the Lions.
Analysis: This has been typical for Johnson. He has not been practicing on Wednesday's but has been able to play. Fantasy owners should not be alarmed. Off to another monstrous start this season, Megatron will remain an elite option for Fantasy owners barring setbacks.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had just one catch for 7 yards in the first half of the Week 3 overtime win at Minnesota. In the second half, Johnson erupted. Quarterback Matthew Stafford hit Johnson twice for touchdowns in the second half -- including on a 32-yarder to open the scoring after halftime -- and the receiver finished with seven receptions for 108 yards and the two TDs. Johnson recorded his third-straight two touchdown game for the Lions. He was targeted 11 times by Stafford in the contest.
Analysis: Megatron had trouble getting things going in Week 3 as he had just one catch at halftime for 7 yards. Stafford couldn't find him open behind the Minnesota defense as the Vikings were playing inspired football on that side of the ball. That said, Johnson still got into the end zone twice in the game, as if the Vikings would be able to keep him down all game long. He erupted in the second half and continues to be one of the best -- if not the best -- Fantasy wide receivers in the NFL. Johnson could end up having another huge week in Week 4 at Dallas. The Cowboys have been decent against opposing wide receivers this season thus far, but we still expect Johnson to do his thing. Consider Johnson a No. 1 Fantasy WR for Week 4 in Big D.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) is active and starting in Minnesota for the Week 3 contest. He'd been listed as probable for the game with an ankle issue but was not listed among the inactives and was the starter for the Lions and QB Matthew Stafford.
Analysis: Only one touchdown has been scored by a receiver against the Vikings this year. That could change in Week 3 with Johnson coming to town. Johnson is tied for the NFL lead with four touchdowns and is leading all NFL players with 33 receiving touchdowns since the beginning of 2008. He is a must-start Fantasy option for Week 3.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) is listed as probable for Week 3 against the Vikings. Only one touchdown has been scored by a receiver against the Vikings this year. That could change in Week 3 with Johnson coming to town. Johnson is tied for the NFL lead with four touchdowns and is leading all NFL players with 33 receiving touchdowns since the beginning of 2008.
Analysis: Megatron tweaked his ankle in Week 1 while scoring two touchdowns. He missed some practice time last week, but he played against the Chiefs and added two more scores. Johnson doesn't need to practice all week to be on the field Sunday. He is just getting scheduled rest as a precaution. Megatron has never gone over 100 yards receiving against Minnesota in his career, but he does have three touchdowns in his last five games agaisnt them. We feel he's in line for another big week and might even be the top overall Fantasy WR option heading into the Week 3 game. Make sure to keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) took to the practice field Thursday after sitting out Wednesday. He is expected to play Sunday against the Vikings. Only one touchdown has been scored by a receiver against the Vikings this year. That could change in Week 3 with Johnson coming to town. Johnson is tied for the NFL lead with four touchdowns and is leading all NFL players with 33 receiving touchdowns since the beginning of 2008.
Analysis: Megatron tweaked his ankle in Week 1 while scoring two touchdowns. He missed some practice time last week, but he played against the Chiefs and added two more scores. Johnson doesn't need to practice all week to be on the field Sunday, so don't worry about him sitting out one day this week. Megatron has never gone over 100 yards receiving against Minnesota in his career, but he does have three touchdowns in his last five games agaisnt them. We feel he's in line for another big week and might even be the top overall Fantasy WR option heading into the Week 3 game. Make sure to keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) did not practice Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 3 at Minnesota. The Vikings have been decent against receivers thus far this season, though that is mostly because they have not been able to stop the run. Only one touchdown has been scored by a receiver against the Vikings thus far this year. That could change in Week 3 with Johnson coming to town. Johnson ties for the NFL lead with four touchdowns and is leading all NFL players with 33 receiving touchdowns since the beginning of 2008.
Analysis: Megatron tweaked his ankle in Week 1 while scoring two touchdowns. He missed some practice time last week, but he played against the Chiefs and added two more scores. Johnson doesn't need to practice all week to be on the field Sunday, so don't worry about him sitting out. Megatron has never gone over 100 yards receiving against Minnesota in his career, but he does have three touchdowns in his last five games agaisnt them. We feel he's in line for another big week and might even be the top overall Fantasy WR option heading into the Week 3 game. Make sure to keep him active in all Fantasy formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who missed two days of practice with an ankle injury, showed no signs of the ailment Week 2 against the Chiefs. He wasn't a factor all over the field, but he was a prime target for QB Matthew Stafford once again in the red zone. Johnson hauled in a pair of scores on the afternoon, including one to cap the team's first drive from 15-yards out. He ended up with three catches for 29 yards, and Stafford looked his way seven times.
Analysis: Johnson now has four touchdown catches in two games early in the season, and there's no doubting the chemistry he and Stafford share. On the goal line before the final connection between the two, they made an in-play adjustment to delay his slant route before the pass was fired in there for six points. Fantasy owners should not have doubted Johnson's ability by any means, but he is playing above all expectation near the goal line early on. Consider Megatron to be a top-notch option in all formats heading into the Week 3 matchup with the Vikings.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who missed two days of practice with an ankle injury, was not among the team's inactives for the Week 2 game against the Chiefs. He was able to practice on Friday, and reportedly looked fluid during warmups on Sunday morning. Johnson was originally listed as questionable heading into game day.
Analysis: Johnson has been saying all along that he expects to play Sunday. We understand why the team wanted to take things slow during the week with its superstar. QB Matt Stafford knows how to get the football to his best receiver, so make sure to start Megatron in all Fantasy formats. Johnson will face a defense that gave up 135 yards and two scores to Bills WRs last week, and a defense that is now missing star safety Eric Berry (knee).
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who missed two days of practice with an ankle injury, returned to practice Friday in preparation for Week 2 against the Chiefs. However, Johnson is listed as questionable.
Analysis: It's interesting that Megatron is listed as questionable because he has been saying all along that he expects to play Sunday. Perhaps this is just a precautionary move in case Johnson suffers a setback. If he misses a few days of practice it's not a big deal. QB Matt Stafford knows how to get the football to his best receiver, so make sure to start Megatron in all Fantasy formats. If anything changes, then we will let you know. Johnson will face a defense that gave up 135 yards and two scores to Bills WRs last week, and a defense that is now missing star safety Eric Berry (knee).
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was absent from practice again Thursday as he deals with an ankle injury. Detroit hosts Kansas City in Week 2. Though he missed the session, he sure sounds like he is playing. When asked about the impact of Chiefs DB Eric Berry's injury, Johnson admitted that it bodes well for the Lions' passing attack. “I feel for (Berry),” he said. “Speedy recovery to him, but at the same time, (his injury will) create some opportunities for us.”
Analysis: Megatron said Wednesday that he expects to play Sunday after rolling his ankle in Week 1. Johnson did make it through a win against the Bucs despite the injury, so we have to feel somewhat confident that he will take the field in Week 2. The physical specimen is coming off of a monster Week 1 in which he racked up 88 yards and a pair of touchdowns, and he faces a defense that gave up 135 yards and two scores to Bills WRs last week. If anything changes with Johnson's status, then we will let you know. But for now continue to keep Megatron active in all Fantasy formats as a must-start option.
News:Calvin Johnson missed Wednesday’s practice to rest an ankle injury sustained in Sunday’s win vs. Tampa. Johnson says Lions trainers are treating the ankle daily, and that he expects to play Sunday vs. Kansas City. "I got a little roll in my ankle, but I'll be alright," Johnson said in the locker room Wednesday. "I'm treating it every morning and every afternoon trying to get it to heal."
Analysis: You couldn't tell Megatron was hurt in Week 1 against the Bucs as he scored twice and made some pretty acrobatic catches. It doesn't appear this injury will sideline Johnson in Week 2, but if anything changes we will let you know. Otherwise, get ready to keep Megatron active for Week 2.
News: The Bucs had trouble slowing down Lions WR Calvin Johnson again. After Johnson torched Tampa Bay for 152 yards on 10 catches last season, he came back Week 1 to produce six catches for 88 yards and two touchdowns in a 27-20 win. Johnson's first score was a nice 36-yard hookup with Matthew Stafford, who perfectly dropped a pass over Bucs DB Aqib Talib and Johnson did the rest. Johnson then scored on a 1-yard pass in the third quarter -- also from Stafford.
Analysis: What is left to say about Megatron? He is good without Stafford and might be better when Stafford is healthy. Stafford has so much confidence in Johnson that he just throws the ball up sometimes in double coverage and trusts Megatron to come down with it. Johnson could have had an even bigger day in Week 1, but he dropped a deep pass from Stafford that would have certainly pushed him over 100 yards. But Megatron did enough to justify his early-round Fantasy draft status. Continue to roll with Johnson heading into Week 2 against the Chiefs.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will make his fourth career appearance against the Bucs in Week 1, and Tampa Bay remembers all too well what Johnson did to them last time in 2010. Johnson went off for 10 catches and 152 yards against Tampa Bay last season. He has 15 catches for 255 yards and one touchdown in his career against the Bucs, who yielded 18.6 Fantasy points per week to receivers in 2010, which was eighth lowest in the NFL.
Analysis: Megatron dealt with a shoulder injury in the preseason, but he still went off four 106 yards and a touchdown. Johnson could be in for a very good year if Matt Stafford remains healthy. There probably aren't going to be many weeks you bench Megatron, so keep him active in all formats Week 1.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who had been dealing with a shoulder injury, was able to play in Saturday's preseason game against New England. Johnson had one catch for 30 yards. He did not play in the second preseason game against Cleveland.
Analysis: We expect Johnson to be fine for the start of the season, and it's a good sign that he was able to play against the Patriots. Consider Johnson the No. 2 Fantasy WR coming into the year, and he's worth drafting toward the end of Round 1 or beginning of Round 2 in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson practiced Thursday and took first-team reps, a good sign considering his sore shoulder. The fact that Johnson's on the practice field doesn't necessarily mean he'll play Saturday vs. New England, but it sure looks like he'll be ready for when the games count.
Analysis: Johnson suffered the injury in the first preseason game against the Bengals, but he stayed in the game and practiced early in the week before missing last Friday's game as a precautionary measure. Unless the injury lingers for another two weeks, which seems highly unlikely, Johnson should remain as one of the premiere offensive players in the league. He's worth a pick no later than Round 2 on Draft Day, probably more like 15th overall.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz admitted that WR Calvin Johnson’s shoulder injury has lingered longer than expected. Schwartz maintains the injury is minor, and that Johnson remains day-to-day. Johnson hasn’t practiced for two days, however, making it less and less likely he’ll feature Saturday vs. the Patriots.
Analysis: Johnson suffered the injury in the first preseason game against the Bengals, but he stayed in the game and practiced early in the week before missing Friday's game as a precautionary measure. Unless the injury lingers for another two weeks, which seems highly unlikely, Johnson is one of the premiere offensive players in the league and he's worth a pick no later than Round 2 on Draft Day. Fantasy owners should stay atop the issue, though the issue is far from panic-worthy for now.
News: The Lions decided to rest WR Calvin Johnson on Friday, making him a late scratch for their preseason game at Cleveland. Johnson hurt his shoulder in last week's preseason matchup but still found the practice field during the week leading up to this game. Johnson told WXYZ-TV the decision not to play him was a precautionary move to avoid re-injuring his bruised shoulder. "I was just being smart," Johnson said. "We've got a long season ahead of us. We want to go into (the regular season opener) fully healthy."
Analysis: Chances are the Lions' staff figured it was a good idea to rest Johnson and not risk further aggravation to the injury. Johnson is a no-brainer as a No. 1 Fantasy WR and is worth taking between 10th and 15th overall in all drafts.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (shoulder) returned to practice Tuesday after sitting out on Monday. Johnson's return means he'll likely play in Friday's second preseason game against Cleveland.
Analysis: After scoring in the Lions' first preseason game -- and doing so with ease against Bengals CB Leon Hall -- expectations went sky-high for Johnson. If he's practicing, that means all systems are go for him to be ready for the regular season. There was never any real reason to worry here. Johnson remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a pick between 11th and 15th overall in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson says he won’t risk further injury to his shoulder by returning to preseason practice before he’s healthy. “It’s not about going out there and getting hurt again (Friday at Cleveland), because it’s preseason," Johnson said. “I want to be able to play all 16 (regular season games), and then some.”
Analysis: Even if Johnson is limited the rest of the preseason schedule, Fantasy owners shouldn't be too concerned. Every time he steps on the field with QB Matthew Stafford, the former UGA signal caller seems to find the former Georgia Tech receiver for big plays. As long as Johnson is healthy come Week 1, then that's all you need to be concerned with. Johnson remains an early-round Fantasy pick in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who suffered a minor shoulder injury in Friday's preseason opener against the Bengals, was held out of practice on Sunday for precuationry reasons. Coach Juim Schwartz told reporters after practice that he is day to day with the issue. Johnson went into the game with a minor ankle injury on the way to hauling in two passes for 37 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Johnson looked fine after taking a hit on a slant during his first catch of the game, to the point that he stayed in and caught a touchdown later in the drive. Fantasy owners should not be overly concerned about the injury, even if he is held out of Friday's game against the Browns. Johnson is working on his rapport with QB Matthew Stafford once again, and the two looked in-sync in their first game together this season. Keep an eye on his status, but the talented wideout remains a top-notch player at any position worthy of selecting in the first couple of rounds on Draft Day.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson not only played through a minor ankle injury in Friday' preseason game against the Bengals, but he made an instant impact. He was on the receiving end of a back-shoulder touchdown pass from QB Matthew Stafford on the team's first possession. Johnson finished with two catches for 37 yards in the win.
Analysis: Johnson saw limited work not because of the ankle, but because of a very minor bruised shoulder he received while running a slant in the first quarter. He stayed in the game and scored late on the drive, so Fantasy owners should not be overly concerned. The Georgia Tech product is a top-notch WR in any format, so he should be selected among the elite at the position on Draft Day. Don't let Johnson fall to the third round.
News: Though he missed Thursday's practice with an ankle injury, Lions WR Calvin Johnson will play Friday against the Bengals in the preseason opener. The injury was never believed to be serious.
Analysis: Johnson is a gamer and he is not sitting out as a precautionary measure, which is something we like to see considering he and starting QB Matthew Stafford have a limited rapport despite being on the same team for two seasons. Fantasy owners should keep an eye on how he does in the opener, though the starters won't play much. The dynamic Johnson should be considered a Top 3 player at his position, so target him before Round 3 in most Fantasy drafts.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson is questionable for the team's preseason opener on Friday after missing Thursday's practice due to an ankle injury.
Analysis: The report notes that coach Jim Schwartz said at the time that Johnson was not hurt and that the tape on his ankle was too tight. Unless he sits out on Friday, this appears to be a non-issue. Johnson finished the 2010 season with 77 catches for 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues and should be considered a Top 3 player at his position. Look for Johnson to be drafted in all formats before the end of Round 2.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson will have his salary altered in 2011. Johnson actually saw his 2011 base salary decrease from just over $10.45 million to $8.875 million. His base salary in 2012, however, jumps from just under $12.425 million to $14 million, the same $1.575 million or so it goes down next year.
Analysis: Johnson finished the 2010 season with 77 catches for 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns. He remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR in all leagues and should be considered a Top 3 player at his position. Look for Johnson to be drafted in all formats before the end of Round 2.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson suited up Week 17 against the Vikings despite an ankle injury. Unfortunately, Johnson didn't leave the sidelines in a 20-13 win. He finished the season with 77 catches for 1,120 yards and 12 touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson was as good as inactive Week 17 although he was officially in uniform. Now, he gets the offseason to recover from the minor injury. The return of QB Matthew Stafford from injury next season should be a benefit to Johnson, who is usually Stafford's favorite target. Megatron will be one of the top receivers Fantasy owners should consider drafting in 2011. Another 1,000-yard season is a strong possibility.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was activated for Week 17 against Minnesota. He was considered a game-time decision and had been listed as questionable on the injury report with an ankle injury.
Analysis: Johnson was able to test the ankle prior to the game and the team cleared him to play. He may not be 100 percent, but owners in championship scenarios will likely want to have him active across the board given his upside. He is a safe play in that he will be active for the game, but exactly how much he will be able to play and how healthy he is remains to be determined. Johnson has a touchdown catch in all three career home games against Minnesota and has 31 catches for 438 yards and four touchdowns in seven career games against the Vikings.
News:Calvin Johnson remained out of practice Friday with an ankle injury and is questionable for the Lions' Week 17 game vs. the Vikings. Johnson aggravated an injury last week at Miami and missed the fourth quarter of that game. Head coach Jim Schwartz said this week he is comfortable starting Johnson without seeing him practice, but there's still a realistic chance the team holds him out against a pass defense that held Jeremy Maclin and DeSean Jackson to eight catches for 106 yards combined last week.
Analysis: Johnson's Fantasy owners should get a backup plan in place in the event that the receiver is made inactive. After all, why should the Lions risk their star receiver's health in a meaningless game? We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com. If Johnson does play, then his history against the Vikings is a favorable one. He has a touchdown catch in all three career home games against Minnesota and has 31 catches for 438 yards and four touchdowns in seven career games against the Vikings.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) missed practice for a second straight day Thursday. Coach Jim Schwartz said earlier this week that Johnson could play on Sunday without practicing.
Analysis: We're hopeful that Johnson is able to play in Week 17 for Fantasy owners still fighting for a championship. Continue to monitor his status and hope he is out there Sunday against a tired Vikings defense. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all formats. He had six catches for 56 yards at Minnesota in Week 3.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) was not at practice Wednesday as Detroit began on-field preparations for its Week 17 game vs. Minnesota. Coach Jim Schwartz said that Johnson could play on Sunday without practicing. “If he’s ready on Sunday, he’ll play," Schwartz said. "We’ve got a long way to go between (Wednesday) and (Sunday)."
Analysis: We're hopeful that Johnson is able to play in Week 17 for Fantasy owners still fighting for a championship. Continue to monitor his status and hope he is out there Sunday against a tired Vikings defense. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all formats. He had six catches for 56 yards at Minnesota in Week 3.
News: The Detroit News reports Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who injured his right ankle in the fourth quarter against Miami in Week 16 and wasn't on the field during the team's late comeback victory in the fourth quarter, could return in Week 17 against Minnesota even without practicing. Coach Jim Schwartz wouldn't comment on the severity of the injury, but he hasn't ruled Johnson out against the Vikings even with Detroit not playing for anything in the season-finale. "If that would help him get through (to Sunday) with his ankle that would be something we'd do," he said.
Analysis: We're hopeful that Johnson is able to play in Week 17 for Fantasy owners still fighting for a championship. Continue to monitor his status and hope he is out there Sunday against a tired Vikings defense. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all formats. He had six catches for 56 yards at Minnesota in Week 3.
News: The Detroit News reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson might not be able to play in Week 17 against Minnesota after leaving Sunday's game at Miami with an ankle injury. The Lions played without Johnson for the entire fourth quarter after he aggravated an ankle injury trying to reach back for a pass that was underthrown on the first play of the final quarter. It's the same ankle that bothered him all week, limiting him in practice. "It's been real tender," he said. "It got landed on and that kind of put it over right there. It had been bothering me pretty much all game."
Analysis: Johnson finished the game with four catches for 52 yards on seven targets. Keep an eye on his status during the week, and hopefully he can play against the Vikings. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all leagues even if he's at less than 100 percent with his ankle.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson caught four passes for 52 yards in a Week 16 win at Miami, but left in the fourth quarter with a re-occurrence of his ankle injury. Johnson was targeted seven times by QB Shaun Hill. Coach Jim Schwartz said Johnson's status is day-to-day.
Analysis: Johnson only had one catch for 6 yards at the half on Sunday, but he went for 46 of his 52 yards on the first drive of the third quarter and then left early in the fourth. This was a bad time for Megatron's ankle to flare up again, as many of his Fantasy owners were counting on him in their championship games in Week 16. Starting even a slightly injured guy is sometimes a big risk in Fantasy play, and this is one of those times it came back to haunt some people, although it could have been worse. In Week 17, Detroit hosts Minnesota, and if Johnson is healthy enough to start that game, he would still be worth using in the majority of Fantasy formats that go to Week 17. Just be aware that this ankle is clearly still a big issue.
News: As anticipated, Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle) was activated for Week 16 at Miami. He had been listed as probable on the injury report. Johnson comes into the game following a 10-catch, 152-yard performance against the Buccaneers and will be facing a Miami secondary that allowed scores to WRs Steve Johnson and David Nelson last Sunday.
Analysis: Johnson hasn't caught a touchdown in two straight games for the first time this season, but he should be able to get into the end zone on Sunday against a Miami secondary that gave up two touchdowns to Terrell Owens earlier this year (one on a lucky tip), and one to another big receiver, Braylon Edwards. The Dolphins DBs have showed poor hands lately, and while only three receivers have gone over 100 yards against Miami this season, Johnson's height will be an issue for both young cornerbacks Sean Smith and Vontae Davis. Megatron remains a must-start Fantasy WR for this matchup and beyond.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (ankle), who didn't practice Wednesday, participated on a limited basis Thursday as Detroit continued preparations for its Week 16 game at Miami. Johnson comes into the game following a 10-catch, 152-yard performance against the Buccaneers and will be facing a Miami secondary that allowed scores to WRs Steve Johnson and David Nelson last Sunday.
Analysis: Johnson hasn't caught a touchdown in two straight games for the first time this season, but he should be able to get into the end zone on Sunday against a Miami secondary that gave up two touchdowns to Terrell Owens earlier this year (one on a lucky tip), and one to another big receiver, Braylon Edwards. The Dolphins DBs have showed poor hands lately, and while only three receivers have gone over 100 yards against Miami this season, Johnson's height will be an issue for both young cornerbacks Sean Smith and Vontae Davis. Megatron remains a must-start Fantasy WR for this matchup and beyond. He should be fine for Sunday's tilt.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson rested his injured ankle on Wednesday as Detroit began practicing in preparation for its Week 16 game at Miami. Johnson will be facing the Miami Dolphins for the first time in his four-year NFL career when Detroit heads south on Sunday. Johnson comes into the game following a 10-catch, 152-yard performance against the Buccaneers and will be facing a Miami secondary that allowed scores to WRs Steve Johnson and David Nelson last Sunday.
Analysis: Johnson hasn't caught a touchdown in two straight games for the first time this season, but he should be able to get into the end zone on Sunday against a Miami secondary that gave up two touchdowns to Terrell Owens earlier this year (one on a lucky tip), and one to another big receiver, Braylon Edwards. The Dolphins DBs have showed poor hands lately, and while only three receivers have gone over 100 yards against Miami this season, Johnson's height will be an issue for both young cornerbacks Sean Smith and Vontae Davis. Megatron remains a must-start Fantasy WR for this matchup and beyond. He should be fine for Sunday's tilt.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will be facing the Miami Dolphins for the first time in his four-year NFL career when Detroit heads south in Week 16. Johnson comes into the game following a 10-catch, 152-yard performance against the Buccaneers and will be facing a Miami secondary that allowed scores to WRs Steve Johnson and David Nelson last Sunday.
Analysis: Johnson hasn't caught a touchdown in two straight games for the first time this season, but he should be able to get into the end zone on Sunday against a Miami secondary that gave up two touchdowns to Terrell Owens earlier this year (one on a lucky tip), and one to another big receiver, Braylon Edwards. The Dolphins DBs have showed poor hands lately, and while only three receivers have gone over 100 yards against Miami this season, Johnson's height will be an issue for both young cornerbacks Sean Smith and Vontae Davis. Megatron remains a must-start Fantasy WR for this matchup and beyond.
News: After a quiet Week 14 against Green Bay in which he made only one catch, Lions WR Calvin Johnson responded with a loud showing at Tampa Bay in Week 15. He caught a team-high 10 passes for 152 yards, including a 12-yard reception in overtime that helped to set up Dave Rayner's game-winning 34-yard field goal in overtime. The Lions prevailed, 23-20, ending their string of 26 consecutive road losses. Johnson had a positive achievement of his own, exceeding 1,000 receiving yards for the season. He is now the only receiver in Detroit history to twice have more than 1,000 yards and 12 touchdowns in a season.
Analysis: Even with the inexperienced Drew Stanton under center, Johnson found a way to excel and have a big day for his Fantasy owners. He may not fare quite as well against the Dolphins in Week 16, but he has done absolutely nothing to endanger his must-start status.
News: After having one of his quietest games of the year in Week 14, WR Calvin Johnson looks to pick up his pace in Week 15 at Tampa Bay. Last week, the Packers held him to a single reception, but this Sunday, Johnson will face a Buccaneers pass defense that is not quite as formidable as the Packers'. Tampa Bay ranks 13th in fewest Fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers, and 18th in fewest touchdowns allowed to wide receivers.
Analysis: In Week 14, Johnson was battling both a groin injury and the struggles of backup QB Drew Stanton. Not only do Johnson and his Fantasy owners get good news in the form of a better defensive matchup, but they may also see the benefits of a return of QB Shaun Hill from his finger injury. Johnson is a must-start regardless of the circumstances, but owners should receive a windfall if Hill is back under center.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson made one of the Lions' biggest plays in Week 14, but ultimately, he did not contribute much to their 7-3 upset of Green Bay. Johnson made only one reception in the entire game, a 44-yard play late in the third quarter that brought the ball into Packer territory. The catch set up a 48-yard field goal attempt that would have put Detroit's first points on the board, but K Dave Rayner missed wide left. Johnson also produced 13 rushing yards on a second-quarter reverse play.
Analysis: With Drew Stanton flailing at quarterback, the entire Lions offense struggled to produce. Johnson will continue to be the Lions' primary target -- he was thrown to eight times in Week 14 -- but if Stanton remains as the team's QB, Megatron could have more modest production in the weeks to come.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was listed as active for Week 14 against the Packers. He was limited in practice all week with a groin injury.
Analysis: Johnson may not be 100 percent for Week 14, but if he is healthy enough to play, he's healthy enough to start. Keep him active in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson's nagging groin injury shouldn't keep him from playing vs. the Packers on Sunday. Though he was listed as limited in practice all week he is listed as probable for the matchup in Week 14 and should start. He should also dominate: Johnson has seven touchdowns and 327 receiving yards in his last four against the Packers including an 86-yard, two-score game against them in Week 4.
Analysis: The Packers' pass defense has tightened up, but the thought of sitting Johnson, who has so much potential, shouldn't enter your head. Make sure he's active as a No.1 Fantasy WR in your leagues in Week 14.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice again Thursday because of a groin injury, but he is not expected to sit out Week 14 against the Packers. Johnson has scored seven touchdowns in his last four meetings against Green Bay, and he reached the end zone twice in a 28-26 loss in their first meeting this year back in Week 4. The Packers currently rank fourth in the league in fewest Fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers and third in fewest passing touchdowns allowed.
Analysis: No matter the competition, Megatron always seems to have the edge over the opposition. He has failed to score a touchdown in just three games this season and has a TD in four straight games heading into Week 14. He always seems to get up for his NFC North rival Green Bay as well. Continue to keep Johnson active in all Fantasy formats for Week 14. He even proved last week that he can be productive playing alongside third-string QB Drew Stanton, who will start again this weekend.
News: The Lions face one of the league's toughest pass defenses in Week 14 when they host the Packers, but WR Calvin Johnson has had success against them in the past. Johnson has scored seven touchdowns in his last four meetings against Green Bay, and he reached the end zone twice in a 28-26 loss in their first meeting this year back in Week 4. The Packers currently rank fourth in the league in fewest Fantasy points allowed to opposing wide receivers and third in fewest passing touchdowns allowed. Johnson was limited in Wednesday's practice with a groin issue.
Analysis: On paper, this looks like it should be one of Megatron's toughest matchups this season, but he managed one of his most productive games the first time he faced Green Bay this year. There's really no reason to bench Johnson in any circumstance, and owners concerned about the impact of Green Bay's defense on his production in Week 14 can take comfort in his previous successes against the Pack.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had another excellent game Week 13 in a 24-20 loss to the Bears. Johnson, who had to catch passes from a new starting QB in Drew Stanton, caught three passes for a team-high 66 yards. He was targeted five times in the passing game and scored a touchdown. Johnson had a 46-yard TD reception in the second quarter to make the score 17-14 Detroit just before halftime.
Analysis: Megatron scored a touchdown for the fourth straight game. He now has 11 touchdowns in his last nine games and 12 for the season for the Lions. It doesn't seem to matter who is throwing the passes, Johnson just keeps coming down with them. The Lions don't have a great matchup Week 14 against the Packers. Still, continue starting Johnson in all leagues.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson heads into Week 13 against the Bears having already played Chicago twice in 2010. One of those games came in January of last season, but Johnson has caught 10 passes for 131 yards and a score in those two games. Johnson has 10 receiving touchdowns in his last eight games overall. He has 11 TDs in his last 11 games. He is the first Lions player to do that since Barry Sanders in 1991. Johnson's 28 receiving touchdowns since the start of 2008 is the third most in the NFL.
Analysis: Johnson has scored in three straight games. In fact, the Bears are only of the only teams to keep Johnson off the board this year. They did that Week 1 in Chicago, holding him to four catches for 45 yards in that game. The Bears are allowing the fifth-fewest Fantasy points per game to opposing wide receivers. Chicago has not allowed a 100-yard receiving game in the last three entering Week 13. Still, Megatron is too good not to use as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News:Calvin Johnson's 19-yard touchdown catch in the first quarter gave the Lions an early 7-3 lead vs. the Patriots on Thanksgiving, but it wasn't enough for his team to hang on as the Lions fell behind in the second half. Johnson's Fantasy owners, however, cannot complain as 'Megatron' caught four passes for 81 yards and the touchdown, helped in part by a 34-yard completion on the Lions' final drive down 24 points with under 2:00 to play. He also had a 15-yard rush; the 96 total yards led all running backs and receivers for the Lions. He was targeted seven times.
Analysis: Unsurprising stats given Johnson's ability and the matchup against New England's secondary. Up next for him and the Lions are the Bears, who effectively robbed the Lions of a Week 1 win when the referees ruled that a last-minute touchdown by Calvin Johnson was not completed because they felt he didn't maintain possession. Johnson has 28 catches for 371 yards and two scores in his last five against the Bears and should be a candidate to score and give owners good yardage in Week 13. Start him in all leagues.
News:Calvin Johnson will take on the Patriots this Thursday as part of Week 12 action in the Lions' annual home game on Thanksgiving. The man they call 'Megatron' will take on a Patriots pass defense that has struggled against passing teams, especially recently as the Steelers and Colts each connected for three touchdowns to wideouts (the Colts scored four touchdowns through the air). On the season New England has given up a dozen touchdowns and five 100-yard games to wide receivers.
Analysis: Johnson, who has 10 touchdowns and three 100-yard games on the season, should do fine here. We're at the point where Johnson is a must-start every week regardless of the opponent, and since he's playing an opponent that is bad vs. the pass, we should expect good numbers from him. Make sure he's active.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson continues to have an outstanding season, and he played well Sunday at Dallas in Week 11. Johnson had six catches for 46 yards and a touchdown on 10 targets. He now has 10 touchdowns on the season to go with 55 catches for 695 yards.
Analysis: Johnson continues to be a dominant Fantasy option and is worth starting in all leagues. Look for him to go after touchdown No. 11 in Week 12 against New England on Thanksgiving Day. He is a must-start Fantasy WR.
News: Star WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is active for Detroit's Week 11 game against Dallas. He was limited in practice on Thursday but practiced at full speed on Friday, and listed as probable on the injury report.
Analysis: Johnson is a must-start play in all Fantasy leagues and he should have a strong outing as the Cowboys have allowed opposing wide receivers to score 14 touchdowns this season.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is listed as probable for the Week 11 game against the Cowboys. He was given a day off Wednesday and returned to see limited action Thursday, before practicing at full speed on Friday. He should be ready for his matchup against Dallas. The Cowboys have allowed 14 touchdowns to opposing wide receivers and 10 have reached double digits in Fantasy points. Johnson comes into this game with 49 catches for 649 yards and nine touchdowns. He had 10 catches for 128 yards and a touchdown in Week 10 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all leagues as long as he's 100 percent healthy. We expect Johnson to play against the Cowboys in what should be a favorable matchup. Look for him to post another solid stat line and hopefully he doesn't suffer a setback with his knee.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) returned to practice Thursday after getting a day off Wednesday. He should be ready for his matchup against Dallas. The Cowboys have allowed 14 touchdowns to opposing wide receivers and 10 have reached double digits in Fantasy points. Johnson comes into this game with 49 catches for 649 yards and nine touchdowns. He had 10 catches for 128 yards and a touchdown in Week 10 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all leagues as long as he's 100 percent healthy. We expect Johnson to play against the Cowboys in what should be a favorable matchup. Look for him to post another solid stat line and hopefully he doesn't suffer a setback with his knee.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) missed practice Wednesday as Detroit began preparations for its Week 11 game at Dallas.
Analysis: This was likely just a day off for Megatron, but make sure you check his status on Thursday and Friday before making a decision on him for Week 11, as he was dealing with a shoulder issue earlier this season. Johnson, who had 10 catches for 128 yards and a touchdown in Week 10, remains an elite Fantasy option as long as he's healthy.
News: The switch back to Shaun Hill at quarterback didn't seem to faze Lions WR Calvin Johnson at Buffalo in Week 10. In fact, he set a season high with 10 catches for 128 yards. Hill seemed uncomfortable at first, unwilling to stretch the field in his return from a broken forearm. But with the Lions trailing in the second half, he began to air it out -- and Johnson was the prime beneficiary. He had six of his catches for 88 yards in the second half, including a 20-yard lob into the end zone late in the fourth quarter to put the Lions within a two-point conversion of tying the game.
Analysis: Johnson left briefly in the third quarter with pain behind the knee, but considering his performance in the final seven minutes, when he caught five passes for 68 yards, he must have been feeling OK. He has been hit or miss at times this season, but even with his one-catch, 13-yard performance last week against the Jets, he has eight touchdowns in his last six games, averaging 88.0 yards during that stretch. He's clearly still a No. 1 Fantasy WR, and it doesn't seem to matter whether Hill or Matthew Stafford is his starting quarterback. Keep him active for Week 11 at Dallas.
News: Week 9 was frustrating for Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who had 247 receiving yards and four touchdowns in the previous two games but struggled to shake coverage and was held to one catch for 13 yards against the Jets and Darrelle Revis. He's looking forward to bouncing back Week 10 at Buffalo, a team that has allowed an average of 265.8 passing yards over its last four games. Johnson could also benefit from the return of QB Shaun Hill. The two connected for four touchdowns in four games from Week 2 to Week 5. Hill, who is returning from a broken left arm, will step in for Matthew Stafford, who injured his shoulder last week. “(Hill starting long-term) is how I see it right now,” Johnson said. “We’re definately behind (Hill).”
Analysis: Hill doesn't have the arm strength of Stafford, but clearly his return shouldn't scare you away from Johnson. Neither should this matchup. The Bills technically rank sixth against the pass, allowing 193.4 yards per game, but they have only one interception and 12 sacks. You have to think the only reason they rank so high against the pass is because teams have so much success running the ball against them, averaging a league-high 178.2 yards per game. The Lions don't have much of a running game, so Johnson figures to see plenty of opportunities in what should be a high-scoring affair. Keep him active as a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: Jets DB Darrelle Revis did his job against Detroit's Calvin Johnson in the Week 9 matchup. New York pulled out an overtime 23-20 victory as Johnson was held to just one catch for 13 yards in the game. He was targeted four times by QB Matthew Stafford, who spent most of his game throwing to Jahvid Best and Nate Burleson.
Analysis: Johnson had topped 100 yards in his last two games and had scored at least one touchdown in four straight games for a total of seven. Megatron was guarded well on Revis Island and it isn't the first time a must-start Fantasy receiver was shut down by the Jets' top corner. Johnson should have a rebound game Week 10 at Buffalo. Consider thinking of him as a top Fantasy option.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson (shoulder), who was listed as probable for the Week 9 game against the Jets, will have no problem starting against New York. Johnson is averaging 96.8 yards per game in his last four contests with seven touchdowns over that span.
Analysis: Johnson went for 101 yards and three scores with QB Matthew Stafford returning last week against Washington. Johnson will face the Jets' tough secondary in Week 9 but Stafford has faith in his receiver. Johnson has 14 catches for 247 yards and four touchdowns in his last two games and he has an even better rapport with Stafford than backup Shaun Hill. Megatron has been the third-best Fantasy receiver in terms of total Fantasy points and he's tied with Hakeem Nicks for the NFL lead with eight touchdowns. Johnson, who continues to be one of the most targeted receivers in the league, will face a Jets defense that is giving up decent amounts of Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Start him as a No. 1 Fantasy option for the Week 9 game.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson started slow this season but since Week 4 at Green Bay has been the most dominant receiver in the NFL. He's averaging 96.8 yards per game in his last four contests with seven touchdowns over that span. Johnson went for 101 yards and three scores with QB Matthew Stafford returning last week against Washington. Johnson will face the Jets' tough secondary in Week 9 but Stafford has faith in his receiver against the likes of Darrelle Revis. "I like my guy (Johnson). Calvin's a good football player," Stafford said. "I think he's treating this (matchup) like Darrelle (Revis) and (Jets CB Antonio) Cromartie are. It's a big challenge." Johnson, who has been practicing in full with a shoulder injury, has been playing through nagging injuries and you would have no clue by how well he's played.
Analysis: Johnson has 14 catches for 247 yards and four touchdowns in his last two games and he has an even better rapport with Stafford than backup Shaun Hill. Megatron has been the third-best Fantasy receiver in terms of total Fantasy points and he's tied with Hakeem Nicks for the NFL lead with eight touchdowns. Johnson, who continues to be one of the most targeted receivers in the league, will face a Jets defense that is giving up decent amounts of Fantasy points per game to opposing wideouts. Vikings and Broncos receivers combined for 24 catches and 420 yards with four touchdowns during Weeks 5 and 6 against the Jets. They did hold the Packers in check last week but Megatron is a different animal. Go ahead and start him across the board as a No. 1 Fantasy receiver.
News:Calvin Johnson couldn't be stopped vs. the Redskins in Week 8, catching nine passes for 101 yards and three touchdowns. His first score was a beauty -- a 13-yard pass from Matthew Stafford where Washington cornerback DeAngelo Hall had him by his lower body but Johnson still managed to muscle into the end zone. His second score was a clutch 7-yard catch that gave the Lions the lead for the time being, then again caught a 10-yard strike to give the Lions the lead for good. It's Johnson's first-career three-touchdown game. “The whole day we were on the same page, which was fun," Stafford said of his dynamic receiver. "The whole day I tried to throw to him and give him a chance to make great plays, and he did.”
Analysis: You don't need us to tell you to start Johnson in every league, but you might want to know that he'll be in for a fight in Week 9 when the Lions play at the Jets. New York will likely double-team Johnson on every play and attempt to force QB Matthew Stafford to go in a different direction. The Jets haven't allowed a No. 1 receiver to score on them since Week 5. Still, Johnson is too good of a player to keep benched in any league.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson got an extra week to rest his injured shoulder during the team's Week 7 bye. "(It's) not going to get better all at once," Johnson said. "It's going to take some time, but it's definitely improving."
Analysis: Johnson broke 100 yards for the first time in Week 6. when he scored a touchdown for the third straight game. We expect him to be healthier when he returns for Week 8 against the Redskins. The same goes for QB Matthew Stafford, who has been out since Week 1. Johnson remains a must-start in all leagues when healthy enough to play.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson came into Week 6 at the Giants as a game-time decision due to his lingering shoulder and knee injuries. He was happy enough with his condition after early warm ups that he decided to suit up and looked to be plenty healthy while catching five passes for a game-high 146 yards. Most of the yardage came on an 87-yard catch-and-run score in the fourth quarter. Johnson was targeted seven times in the game. Johnson's touchdown came on a play in which he caught the ball in between a corner and a safety is zone, cover-2 coverage. As soon as he made the catch, the safety ran into the corner and there was nothing but green in front of Johnson for the score.
Analysis: Johnson wasn't having a huge day prior to that, but the play allowed him to break the 100-yard mark for the first time all year and it allowed him to keep his touchdown streak alive at three games. He may not be 100 percent, which makes it a great time for the bye in Week 7. Fantasy owners will have to find alternatives, but expect him to be healthier when he returns for Week 8 against the Redskins. The same goes for QB Matthew Stafford, who has been out since Week 1. Johnson remains a must-start in all leagues when healthy enough to play.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (shoulder, knee) was listed as active for Week 6 at the N.Y. Giants. He had been considered a game-time decision leading into the game and had been limited in practice throughout the week.
Analysis: Johnson and the Lions will take on the NFL's best defense against the pass in Week 6 when they play the Giants. New York is giving up just 146 yards passing per contest through the first five weeks of the season. Even with that tough matchup, Fantasy owners should continue to roll with one of the top receivers in Fantasy. Just be aware he may not be 100 percent and is facing a tough matchup when making your decision.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that WR Calvin Johnson was out on the field catching passes as part of his pregame warmup. He was listed as questionable for Week 6 at the Giants with a sore right shoulder, and he was limited in practice earlier in the week.
Analysis: Johnson's condition improved throughout the week, and this is just one more good sign. Owners should plan to make Megatron active in all Fantasy formats, barring any negative developments, and even though he and the Lions have a tough matchup against the Giants pass defense. We'll be first to know for sure whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson’s shoulder looks healthier with each workout. Johnson caught passes Friday with his right hand, something he hasn’t been able to do consistently all week. He doesn’t have full range of motion in the shoulder, but Johnson looks strong enough to play Sunday. "It's definitely improved every single day," coach Jim Schwartz said. "Where he'll be on Sunday, I really don't know. He hasn't had any setbacks." Johnson is officially listed as questionable for Week 6 at the Giants.
Analysis: Johnson and the Lions will take on the NFL's best defense against the pass in Week 6 when they play the Giants. New York is giving up just 146 yards passing per contest through the first five weeks of the season. Even with that tough matchup, Fantasy owners will be hoping that Johnson can get on the field Sunday and produce some decent numbers, but he's clearly going to be a gameday decision. With a Week 7 bye, the Lions might just choose to rest Megatron this weekend and give him two weeks to heal up, but we'll have to wait and see. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy option. If he gets the green light for Week 6, we still like Johnson as a low-end No. 1 WR Fantasy option. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (right shoulder) was limited at practice for a second straight session Thursday. Johnson was still favoring his shoulder as a few passes were thrown his way. He vague when asked about his injured shoulder. “It’s coming along”, Johnson said. Just because he practiced, does not necessarily mean he will play. “We’ll see Sunday. Anything that goes on during the week, you need to temper both optimism and pessimism and just try to get (Johnson) through to Sunday and see where he is," coach Jim Schwartz said on Thursday. Johnson and the Lions take on the NFL's best defense against the pass in Week 6 as they take on the Giants. New York is giving up 146 yards passing per contest through the first five weeks of the season.
Analysis: At this point, Johnson looks highly unlikely to play in Week 6 as he couldn't even lift his arm on Wednesday and clearly didn't do much more on Thursday. If you were planning on using Megatron on Sunday, you should probably start looking elsewhere for a WR if you haven't done so already. With a Week 7 bye, the Lions might just choose to rest Megatron this weekend and give him two weeks to heal up, but we'll have to wait and see. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy option. If he gets the green light for Week 6, we still like Johnson as a low-end No. 1 WR Fantasy option.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was present at the media portion of practice on Wednesday. No passes were thrown his way and he was visibly favoring his injured right shoulder.
Analysis: “Limited” seems a generous characterization of Johnson’s status. He didn’t raise his arm or catch passes during open periods. Johnson wore a helmet and jogged, making the “limited” tag technically accurate. Johnson hurt his shoulder in a Week 5 rout of the Rams and didn't return as the Lions were up big. This injury will have to be watched closely over the next few days, especially as a big physical receiver like Johnson could re-injure his shoulder very easily. With a Week 7 bye, the Lions might just choose to rest Megatron this weekend and give him two weeks to heal up, but we'll have to wait and see. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy option.
News: The Detroit News reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson said he could not have returned to the game if needed during Sunday's victory against the Rams. Johnson injured his right shoulder after making a 29-yard reception early in the third quarter and didn't return. "He landed funny," coach Jim Schwartz said. "We'll see where it is (on Monday)." Johnson said of the injury: "It's sore." When asked if he could've returned to the game, he said, "No." He finished the game with four catches for 54 yards and a touchdown.
Analysis: Johnson most likely has a shoulder bruise, but keep an eye on his status heading into Week 6 at the Giants. When healthy, Johnson is a must-start Fantasy WR in all leagues. We expect him to play against the Giants, but the Lions also have a bye in Week 7 and might decide to rest him for at least two weeks. Don't panic yet, but stay tuned to the injury report throughout the week.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson sat out the final few minutes of his team's 44-6 win over St. Louis on Sunday after hurting his shoulder making a diving catch near the sideline. Johnson said afterward the shoulder was sore before heading quickly to the training room. After coming out of the game, he had his jersey removed on the sideline before the shoulder was wrapped in ice. The ice wrap was gone by the time Johnson spoke briefly to reporters in the locker room. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said only that Johnson "landed funny" on the play. Johnson caught four passes for 54 yards and a touchdown. He also caught a ball near the back corner of the end zone, but the play was ruled incomplete after a review because Johnson couldn't get both feet in bounds.
Analysis: The injury does not appear to be serious, but owners should make sure they check up on his status before setting lineups for Week 6. Even with his early departure, Johnson led the Lions with nine targets, but as has been typical, QB Shaun Hill has spread the ball around to several of his receivers. He may not be producing as much this year as many owners had expected, and in some weeks, his opportunities will be limited as he shares the ball with other targets, but Johnson is a threat to score and pile up yardage every week. He still ranked ninth in targets in the league heading into Week 5 and is a must-start when healthy.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had his best game of the year in Week 4, as he caught six passes for 86 yards and two touchdowns at Green Bay. In Week 5, Johnson could have an even bigger game, as he will go up against a Rams secondary that has been picked apart. Through the first four weeks, opposing quarterbacks have targeted their wide receivers an average of 22.8 times per game for an average output of 175 yards. “The Rams like to keep everything in front of them. We just need to go out there and execute," Johnson said. The St. Louis secondary ranks in the bottom quarter of the league in both of these measures. In other words, the potentially explosive Johnson has a very good matchup in Week 5.
Analysis: As the Lions' most valuable Fantasy receiver, Johnson is primed to have a big week. No team in the league has made as many pass attempts as Detroit, and now they face a team that has had trouble containing wide receivers. Consider Johnson a must-start WR in Week 5.
News: Lions C Dominic Raiola said leading up to Week 4 against the Packers that star WR Calvin Johnson was "foaming at the mouth" for a chance to take on their NFC North rival. Johnson didn't make a liar out of Raiola. Johnson found the end zone twice in a 28-26 loss to the Packers. Johnson's first score came on a wide-open, 23-yard reception in the second quarter. He second score came right before halftime as he outleaped a pair of Green Bay defenders to haul in a 21-yard pass from Shaun Hill. Johnson finished with six catches for 86 yards. He also had one carry for 2 yards.
Analysis: Johnson has had three two-touchdown games in his career -- all against the Packers. His eight career scores against Green Bay are the most in his career against one opponent. Megatron just seems to get up every time he sees the Green and Gold. Johnson still doesn't have a 100-yard game in 2010, but he has three scores and the fact he is a touchdown threat every week keeps him a high-end option in all Fantasy formats. The Lions will take on the Rams in Week 5.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has a good history against his Week 4 opponent -- the Packers. In five career games, Johnson has totaled 28 catches for 378 yards and six touchdowns. The six scores are the most against any opponent in his career. "He's ready for the challenge, foaming at the mouth, ready to go," center Dominic Raiola said of Johnson, who has a pair of two touchdown games against Green Bay and has five scores in his last three contests against his NFC North rivals. Speaking of the NFC North, Johnson has managed 10 touchdowns in his past 13 games in his division.
Analysis: The last time Johnson went up to Green Bay in 2008, he totaled nine catches for 102 yards and two touchdowns. He did that with Dan Orlovsky slinging passes for the Lions. Johnson missed the trip to Green Bay in 2009 due to injury, but in his one game against Green Bay last season he still managed a score. The Packers have held wide receivers to just one touchdown in three games this season, but Johnson is too talented of a receiver to sit in Fantasy. Even with Shaun Hill as his QB until Matthew Stafford (shoulder) returns.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had his best game of the season in Week 3 at the Vikings in terms of catches and yardage, but it still wasn't the type of production Fantasy owners have come to expect from Johnson. He finished with six catches for 56 yards. Despite the fact that QB Shaun Hill attempted 43 passes, only only seven were thrown in Johnson's direction.
Analysis: By comparison, tight ends Tony Scheffler and Brandon Pettigrew had the ball thrown their way nine times. RB Maurice Morris had the ball thrown his way seven times. Hill was under tremendous amounts of pressure all game and had little time to look down field for his best receiver. The Vikings had a very effective gameplan in place and it was never going to allow Johnson to break free for any huge gains. Johnson could continue to suffer while Stafford (who is expected to miss at least a few more games) is out due to injury, but his upside remains far too great to consider reserving in any league. Johnson should remain active in just about all leagues for Week 4 at the Packers. We must note that Johnson was held to just two catches for 10 yards, including a touchdown, in his only meeting against the Packers last season. Our vote is still to start Johnson where possible.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has yet to post his first big stat line of the season, but will try to do so in Week 3 against the Vikings in Minnesota. The Detroit Free Press reported this week that coach Jim Schwartz told reporters that he is not concerned with Johnson's mediocre numbers to begin the season. "He's obviously a big part of our offense and one of our best players, so you want to have the ball in those guys' hands," Schwartz said. "But there's some times you just can't force it, and if you do, then you're making bad decisions." After two weeks, Johnson ranks 49th in the NFL with 95 receiving yards. He has made just one first-half catch in the team's first two games. The Vikings, meanwhile, have allowed one passing touchdown per game in Weeks 1-2 and rank seventh in the NFL against the pass.
Analysis: The main reason Johnson has been held to such low numbers (by his standards) is that opposing defenses have made it a priority to take Detroit's main offensive weapon out of the game. And, to a great extent, they've managed to do that. And while RB Jahvid Best and TEs Brandon Pettigrew have had some success, no other Lions WR has stepped up to take some of the defensive heat off Johnson. The great thing about Megatron, however, is that he remains a big-play threat and he's made several big catches late in games through the first two weeks (including one notorious touchdown catch against the Bears that was wiped off the board in Week 1). Johnson won't be kept down for long and despite the fact he'll be up against a tough Vikings defense on the road in Week 3 and the fact he'll have backup Shaun Hill as his QB we still recommend activating him in all leagues. Hill did throw for 300-plus yards in Week 2 against the Eagles and Johnson has managed four career touchdowns against Minnesota in six career games against them.
News: After being stripped of a touchdown in Week 1 against the Bears, Lions WR Calvin Johnson finally got his first touchdown of the season in Week 2 against the Eagles. However, before Johnson hauled in a 19-yard touchdown from Shaun Hill in the fourth quarter, he had a 14-yard touchdown negated on the previous play by a illegal formation penalty. To complete the scoring drive, Johnson had a 2-point conversion that cut the deficit to 35-32. Johnson had four catches for 50 yards. He was targeted a team-high 11 times.
Analysis: The Lions might have had to make a switch at quarterback for Week 2 because of an injury, but it's quite clear that no matter who is under center that Megatron is going to see a ton of passes go his way. He only has 95 receiving yards in two games, but the fact he is a threat for a touchdown every week makes him a must-start Fantasy WR. The Lions play the Vikings in Week 3. Johnson had 13 catches for 135 yards and on touchdown in two games vs. Minnesota last season.
News: Adjusting to a new quarterback, Shaun Hill, isn't the only thing on Lions WR Calvin Johnson's mind heading into Week 2 against the Eagles. He is also concerned about Philadelphia cornerback Asante Samuel, who could spend most of the day shadowing Johnson. “He’s a good corner," Johnson said. "He makes plays on the ball. That’s what he’s known for. If we’re solid on our technique and get to the ball we’ll be all right." Aside from dealing with Samuel, Johnson is also three grabs shy of 200 in his career.
Analysis: Johnson has confidence in Hill, who is replacing an injured Matthew Stafford (shoulder). Remember, it was Hill who threw the ball to Megatron on the game-winning touchdown grab he had in Week 1 that was overturned. Johnson has played Philadelphia just once in his career, totaling two catches for 58 yards in his third NFL game in 2007. Megatron has come quite a long way since then, as he is now one of the premier receivers in the NFL. Losing Stafford isn't a good thing, but Hill is an experience NFL QB and he will look to get the ball to Megatron. The Eagles had trouble stopping the Packers in Week 1, allowing 13 receptions for 129 yards and two touchdowns to Green Bay's receivers. Johnson might lose a little Fantasy appeal with Stafford sidelined, but we still like him as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 WR for Week 2.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson is just three receptions shy of totaling 200 in his career. He looks to take down that record in Week 2 against the Eagles. Johnson, who had a game-winning touchdown overturned by replay in Week 1 against the Bears, will also have to adjust to a new quarterback in Shaun Hill after Matthew Stafford left Week 1 with a shoulder injury. "Shaun is a wily veteran," Johnson told The Sports Xchange. "We have complete confidence with him in there. He knows what to do."
Analysis: Johnson has played Philadelphia just once in his career, totaling two catches for 58 yards in his third NFL game in 2007. Megatron has come quite a long way since then, as he is now one of the premier receivers in the NFL. Losing Stafford isn't a good thing, but Hill is an experience NFL QB and he will look to get the ball to Megatron. The Eagles had trouble stopping the Packers in Week 1, allowing 13 receptions for 129 yards and two touchdowns to Green Bay's receivers. Johnson might lose a little Fantasy appeal with Stafford sidelined, but we still like him as a low-end No. 1/high-end No. 2 WR for Week 2.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was celebrating what he thought was the go-ahead touchdown catch, a leaping grab in the end zone that would give Detroit its first road win in three years. Instead, they lost the game. They also lost their starting quarterback. The Lions lost QB Matthew Stafford to a shoulder injury at the end of the first half, but were still in position to pull this one out even after they fell behind late in the game. For a few moments, it looked like they had done just that. The Lions had second-and-10 at the 25 with 31 seconds left when Johnson outjumped Chicago's Zackary Bowman in the end zone for what looked like a touchdown. He appeared to have gotten both feet down inbound and rolled over before letting the ball go, but what looked like a potential game-winner was ruled an incomplete pass by the officials. Referee Gene Steratore said, "The ruling is that in order for the catch to be completed he has got to maintain possession of the ball throughout the entire process of the catch." Johnson was "shocked" by the call, saying, "I figure if I got two feet and a knee down, to me that is a catch that's why I got up and took off," he said. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said the officials got it right. "The rule is if you're going to the ground in the process of making the catch you need to finish with the football," he said. "He didn't finish with the football. He was [aware] he was trying to come down with it, he had one hand to keep it away from the other guy, he is trying to get his feet down and go to a knee it wasn't like he was trying to flip it to the official or anything. That's what it is."
Analysis: Johnson finished the game with four catches for 45 yards, but his Fantasy value could be in trouble now with Stafford out for what could be six weeks. We'll continue to follow what happens with Stafford, but hopefully Johnson will continue to play well even if Shaun Hill is his new QB. It's hard to sit Johnson, however, since in 2008 he posted dominant stats with Dan Orlovsky, Daunte Culpepper and Jon Kitna throwing him passes. Hill is of the same ilk, so Johnson should be fine. Consider him a solid starting option in Week 2 against the Eagles.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson loves facing the Bears. In two games against Chicago in 2009, Johnson had 14 catches for 219 yards and a touchdown. In two games against Chicago in 2008, Johnson had 10 catches for 110 yards and a touchdown. And in his rookie year in 2007, Johnson had two catches for 44 yards in his lone game against the Bears. Chicago allowed 17 touchdowns to opposing wide receivers in 2009, and while the Bears defense should improve with the return of Brian Urlacher and the addition of Julius Peppers, it will hard to slow down Johnson.
Analysis: We expect Johnson to post big stats in 2010 and play well in Week 1. He is a must-start option in all leagues, and hopefully his success against the Bears will continue.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson appears ready for the start of the regular season. He played well in Saturday's third preseason game against Cleveland with two catches for 42 yards. He was thrown at three times. His only downside was failing to score a touchdown for the third game in a row.
Analysis: Johnson is clearly in line for a big season as long as he can stay healthy. The addition of Nate Burleson, Tony Scheffler and Jahvid Best will help draw coverage, and QB Matthew Stafford is ready to blossom in his second year. Consider Johnson a No. 1 Fantasy WR, and he's worth drafting as a Top 5 player at his position with an early pick in Round 2 in all leagues.
News:Calvin Johnson and touchdowns have gone together like peanut butter and jelly this preseason. Playing at Denver on Saturday night, Johnson caught a jump ball from quarterback Matthew Stafford over Broncos cornerback Andre Goodman for a 20-yard touchdown and finished the game with two catches for 34 yards.
Analysis: Johnson has been the real deal since he stepped on an NFL field, and the only thing that has seemed to slow him down has been injuries. That's too bad since any other time he plays he's an absolute lock for at least good stats if not amazing totals. Owners shouldn't feel the least bit concerned about Johnson at this point; consider him a good No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a pick between the middle of Round 2 and the start of Round 3 in all leagues. Given the Lions' strong offense and weak defense, they could be in a lot of shootouts, and that could lead to some scary performances from Johnson.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson played three series at the Steelers in the team's preseason opener and looked excellent. He only caught two passes, but one was a 2-yard touchdown grab where he was wide open on a stop route. He also was targeted two other times -- both in the end zone in single coverage.
Analysis: Really, the only concern to have if you're looking hard at Johnson for Fantasy use is whether or not he can stay healthy for 16 games. Last year he missed what amounts to three games with a knee injury, and his propensity for getting banged around in double coverage could lead to problems. But that might be the only way Fantasy owners not receive big production from Johnson in 2010 -- and you can clearly see that Matthew Stafford will look his way often in the red zone. He's worth considering as a low-end No. 1 Fantasy WR with a pick between the end of Round 2 and the end of Round 3 in all leagues.
News: The website mlive.com reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson needs to do more in 2010. Johnson, the No. 2 overall pick of the 2007 draft, has never been to the Pro Bowl and has just one season with more than 70 catches and 1,000 yards (78 for 1,331 yards in 2008). Johnson caught 12 touchdown passes on 2008 but has just four in each of his two other seasons. Now, Johnson has faced constant double teams, but he needs to play like an elite receiver this year, according to the report. Johnson needs to avoid injuries: He was limited by a back injury as a rookie and last year dealt with a sore knee for most of the season. And Johnson needs to prove he's the best player on the field despite the constant attention from the defense. All of the great receivers get that kind of treatment, but they learn how to defeat it. That's the next step Johnson has to take in his evolution and it shouldn't be a problem.
Analysis: Johnson has the talent to be considered an elite Fantasy WR, and we think he will play at that level for many years. He will continue to improve with the development of QB Matthew Stafford, and Johnson should play well as long as he's healthy. He is worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy option and should be drafted in all leagues as early as Round 2 or 3.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports Lions QB Matthew Stafford and WR Calvin Johnson are starting to develop a solid rapport. "We've got to keep working," Stafford said. "But I feel like we're getting on the same page more and more. He knows what I'm looking at, I know what he's looking at and it's getting better." Stafford and Johnson couldn't develop much chemistry last offseason because Stafford didn't join the veterans until May, then didn't get all the reps with the first team until September. Johnson missed much of training camp because of injury. "They've been at it strong since mid-March, so we should be seeing stuff like that," coach Jim Schwartz said.
Analysis: If Stafford and Johnson can stay healthy then Johnson should be in for a big year. We like Johnson as a No. 1 Fantasy WR, and he's worth drafting as early as Round 3 in all leagues.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has recovered from his 2009 injuries, and the work he's put in this offseason with QB Matthew Stafford is showing on the field. The two have improved communication with each other, likely the result of working together four days a week. Johnson beat double coverage repeatedly during drills in their mid-May OTA and made several outstanding grabs. Johnson admits he was frustrated last year but knows that this year is a whole new ballgame, especially with Stafford a year wiser."We're in sync out there now," Johnson said. "We've had time to work together. He's in his second year, and ready to shine. I'm excited."
Analysis: We're excited too as we expect Johnson to play better this year . He should be considered a low-end No. 1/top-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in 2010. Plan on drafting Johnson as early as late Round 2 and as late as early Round 3 in all leagues this season. When he's healthy, he's nearly impossible to stop.
News: The Detroit News reports Lions WR Calvin Johnson is hoping for a better year in 2010 than he had in 2009. Plagued by injuries for most of last season, Johnson had 347 fewer yards (984) and seven fewer touchdowns (five) than his breakout second-season of 2008 -- 78 catches for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns. Johnson said the new additions Detroit made this offseason in Nate Burleson and Tony Scheffler to go with Bryant Johnson should make the Lions passing game more dangerous. "We have a bunch of bigger guys. We have a lot more speed. We have a lot more skilled players out there," Johnson said. "That's why I'm very excited to get going. I'm ready to go right now." The acquisitions of Burleson, Scheffler and rookie RB Jahvid Best should take some of the pressure off Johnson, and the hope is they will force defenses to employ fewer double and triple teams. Johnson saw single coverage only a handful of times last season. Johnson is confident the development of second-year QB Matthew Stafford will go a long way to him having a bounce-back season, also. "His confidence has grown a ton," Johnson said. "He got out there. He has that game experience. He's seen some highs and he's seen some lows. I think he'll be able to come out here this year and give us a good show."
Analysis: We expect Johnson to play better this year as well, and he should be considered a No. 1 Fantasy WR in 2010. Plan on drafting Johnson as early as Round 3 in all leagues this season and hope he sees plenty of single coverage.
News: Sick of losing and interested in gathering more recognition, Lions WR Calvin Johnson is participating in the team's offseason workout program. Despite being regarded as one of the game's best receivers - especially when he caught 12 touchdown passes and had 1,300-plus yards receiving two years ago - Johnson hasn't been invited to play in the Pro Bowl. He believes it's because the Lions haven't been consistent winners. One way the Lions can win is if Johnson can help for all 16 games, so he has been working with a trainer to strengthen the areas around his knee joints. "I want to stay healthy so I can be out there every Sunday," he said.
Analysis: Johnson totaled 67 catches for 984 yards (14.7 avg.) and five touchdowns with 73 rushing yards in essentially 13 games last season, working for a good chunk of the year without starting QB Matthew Stafford, who made rookie mistakes when he did play. He's building chemistry with Stafford now, and the two have potential to be a dynamic pair on offense for the Lions thanks to Stafford's powerful arm and Johnson's insane abilities. He's still worth drafting as a No. 1 Fantasy WR, but you can get him toward the back of Round 2 this summer instead of the front of Round 2, which is where many owners found him last summer.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson caught six passes for 86 yards and a touchdown in a Week 17 loss to the Bears. He also ran one time for 4 yards.
Analysis: After a breakout sophomore campaign, Megatron took a step back in 2009, but the quarterback mess in Detroit had a lot do to with his struggles. His Fantasy value will take a slight hit in 2010 because of his poor numbers this season, but he will still be snapped as a No. 2 Fantasy WR because of his major upside.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was the team’s lone offensive bright spot on Sunday in a Week 16 loss at San Francisco. He made seven receptions in the game, gaining a total of 96 yards through the air. He also got two carries for a total of 32 yards. However, Johnson failed to score for the third week in a row. He also lost two fumbles in the game.
Analysis: Johnson was not a recommended Fantasy option coming into Week 16. However, he ended up producing more than expected and accumulated 128 total yards. The two fumbles are a bit disturbing, but as long as it does not become a trend, Fantasy owners shouldn’t worry too much. The Lions take on a good Bears pass defense in Week 17. At Chicago in Week 4, Johnson finished with eight receptions for 133 yards. However, that was with Matthew Stafford starting for the Lions at QB, not Drew Stanton. Think of Johnson as a No. 2 Fantasy option due to the QB situation in Detroit.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is active for the team's Week 16 game at San Francisco but has a tough matchup, which is why he's the CBSSports.com Sit of the Week. Drew Stanton will start at QB for the Lions with rookie Matthew Stafford going on injured reserve, and Johnson could struggle against the 49ers. San Francisco has struggled in pass defense this year and is ranked No. 28, but the 49ers have only allowed 10 touchdowns to opposing wide receivers. Only two wide receivers have reached double digits in Fantasy points against the 49ers in the past seven games, and Roddy White in Week 5 is the only wide receiver to score in San Francisco this year. Johnson also has just one touchdown outdoors this season in Week 13 at Cincinnati, but that was Stafford's last game this year.
Analysis: With Stanton under center, Johnson could struggle. It's hard to bench someone like Johnson, but you might be better off keeping him reserved. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best Week 16.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) practiced in full all week, but he has a tough matchup in Week 16 at San Francisco, which is why he's the CBSSports.com Sit of the Week. Drew Stanton will start at QB for the Lions with rookie Matthew Stafford going on injured reserve, and Johnson could struggle against the 49ers. San Francisco has struggled in pass defense this year and is ranked No. 28, but the 49ers have only allowed 10 touchdowns to opposing wide receivers. Only two wide receivers have reached double digits in Fantasy points against the 49ers in the past seven games, and Roddy White in Week 5 is the only wide receiver to score in San Francisco this year. Johnson also has just one touchdown outdoors this season in Week 13 at Cincinnati, but that was Stafford's last game this year.
Analysis: With Stanton under center, Johnson could struggle. It's hard to bench someone like Johnson, but you might be better off keeping him reserved. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best this week.
News: In the Lions' Week 15 loss vs. the Cardinals, WR Calvin Johnson mustered up just three catches for 35 yards. Sadly, the 35 yards was enough to lead all receivers and tight ends (and was tied for the team lead with Maurice Morris).
Analysis: Johnson was double-teamed by the Cardinals all week long and couldn't make any plays with Daunte Culpepper or Drew Stanton as his quarterback. In spite of his potential, consider him no better than a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 16 at San Francisco.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) was activated and will start in Week 15 against Arizona. He had been listed as questionable on the injury report and was a game-time decision.
Analysis: Daunte Culpepper will start at quarterback, he's not 100 percent with his knee irking him and the Cardinals have proven to be good, not great, against the pass. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR at best, and while his potential is obviously high, the reality of a knee slowing him down against a defense that will cover him tightly makes him a risky start.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice Friday with a knee issue that's hobbled him over much of the last several weeks. He's listed as questionable for the team's Week 15 game vs. the Cardinals after not practicing at all on Thursday.
Analysis: This is bad news for Johnson's Fantasy owners, though his outlook isn't great to begin with: Daunte Culpepper will start at quarterback, he's not 100 percent with his knee irking him and the Cardinals have proven to be good, not great, against the pass. Consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR at best, and while his potential is obviously high, the reality of a knee slowing him down against a defense that will cover him tightly makes him a risky start. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz said Thursday that WR Calvin Johnson may be a game-time decision Sunday against Arizona. Johnson missed practice Thursday with a knee injury. Johnson was listed as "limited" on Wednesday's injury report.
Analysis: This is bad news for Johnson, who has a tough matchup against the Cardinals. Hopefully he can return to practice Friday, and if he's able to play against the Cardinals you should consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR. His outlook isn't great with Daunte Culpepper starting and now the knee injury, but Johnson is still too talented to keep reserved in the majority of leagues.
News: As is normally the case, Detroit WR Calvin Johnson was listed on the injury practice report on Wednesday with a knee injury. Johnson is expected to play in Week 15 against the Cardinals as he's been on the practice report with the same injury before.
Analysis: With Daunte Culpepper likely starting again in Week 15 against a weak Arizona secondary, we're not really sure how we feel about Johnson's Fantasy value. Johnson should be considered at worst a No. 2 Fantasy option for that start.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was targeted 12 times in the team’s Week 14 loss at Baltimore but was only able to come up with four receptions in a 48-3 loss. Johnson gained 37 yards, failing to score a touchdown. His longest pass reception was good for 37 yards. Johnson had scored in three straight games before failing to hit pay dirt Week 14.
Analysis: With Daunte Culpepper starting for Matthew Stafford and the Lions facing a tough Baltimore defense in cold and rainy conditions, it’s not surprising to see Johnson have a down game as the Lions struggled to pass the ball overall. Johnson could have a better time in Week 15 at home against the Cardinals, especially if Stafford comes back. Johnson should be considered at worst a No. 2 Fantasy option for that start.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was easily the team’s top offensive producer on Sunday in a Week 13 loss to the Bengals. Johnson caught six passes in the game for a total of 123 yards and a touchdown. His TD grab was good from 54 yards out in the first quarter to give the Lions a 7-0 lead. It was the third straight game that Johnson has scored in and the third time this season that Johnson has gained more than 100 receiving yards.
Analysis: Johnson is one of the elite talents in the league and would likely put up even bigger numbers playing in a different offense. He could be without starting QB Matthew Stafford for a couple of weeks however as Stafford is thinking about taking a couple of weeks off to rest his injured shoulder. However, even if Daunte Culpepper is the team’s starter, Johnson is still a solid Fantasy option. Think of him as a solid No. 2 Fantasy option for Week 14 at Baltimore.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is active for the team's Week 13 game at Cincinnati.
Analysis: Megatron has a touchdown in two straight games, but he definitely isn't having the season Fantasy owners would like. A lot of that has to do with double coverage and a rookie quarterback. Still, CJ is a big enough threat to start in Fantasy on a weekly basis.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is listed as probable for Week 13 at Cincinnati. He practiced in full all week. Johnson has been banged up at times this season and has missed two games as a result. However, he has dressed for the last four games.
Analysis: Megatron has a touchdown in two straight games, but he definitely isn't having the season Fantasy owners would like. A lot of that has to do with double coverage and a rookie quarterback. Still, CJ is a big enough threat to start in Fantasy on a weekly basis.
News: Injuries appear to be a non-issue for Lions QB Matt Stafford (shoulder) and WR Calvin Johnson (knee). Both practiced fully for the second consecutive day Thursday and will likely play at Cincinnati, barring any major setbacks. Stafford is dealing with an injury in his left, non-throwing shoulder, and Johnson has been bothered with a knee injury the past few weeks.
Analysis: Johnson should be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR in all leagues. The matchup with the Bengals isn't ideal, but Johnson is too talented to keep reserved as long as he's 100 percent healthy. Stafford should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy QB in this matchup.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson (knee) was able to practice in full on Wednesday as the team prepares for its Week 13 game. Johnson is expected to play in the game.
Analysis: Johnson wasn't in on every play for the Lions and seemed limited on Thursday in a Week 12 loss to the Packers. His speed seemed especially off as Charles Woodson blanketed him for much of the game. He is a risky No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 13 at Cincinnati, whose secondary is just as strong as the Packers. However, Johnson is expected to be active for the game.
News: Playing on Thanksgiving vs. the Packers, Lions WR Calvin Johnson did play after missing practice all week and even caught a 1-yard touchdown early in the first quarter. Aside from another 9-yard catch, however, that was it for Johnson as he was held catchless for the rest of the game.
Analysis: Johnson looked bothered by a knee injury that kept him out of practice before the game. He wasn't in on every play for the Lions and seemed limited. His speed seemed especially off as Charles Woodson blanketed him for much of the game. He'll be a risky No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 13 at Cincinnati, whose secondary is just as strong as the Packers.
News: The Lions have announced that Calvin Johhson will start vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving. Johnson was questionable with a hand and knee injury and missed practice all week.
Analysis: If you own Johnson, consider him among your other receivers before finalizing your lineup. The fact that he's playing hurt with a quarterback who is playing hurt (Matthew Stafford is also active) against a defense that still boasts a good secondary led by cornerback Charles Woodson. Expect him to perform like a No. 2 Fantasy WR on Thursday -- plan accordingly.
News:Calvin Johnson didn't practice on Wednesday, missing all of his team's practices this week in preparation for the Packers on Thanksgiving. The team lists him as questionable for the game, though the chances of him playing well with unspecified hand and knee injuries seem slim since he couldn't practice all week. Previously when Johnson missed a week of practice with his sprained knee, the team didn't list him as active.
Analysis: Expect Johnson to miss the game; if he plays, he likely won't be very productive against a good Packers secondary while playing hurt. Consider other options for your lineup at this time; potential waiver replacements include Chris Chambers, Michael Crabtree, Kenny Britt, Jeremy Maclin and Lions receiver Dennis Northcutt. We'll have the official word on Johnson Thanksgiving Day about an hour before kickoff.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson once again missed practice on Tuesday as he deals with knee and hand injuries, but there's a chance he'll play vs. the Packers on Thanksgiving according to MLive.com. "He's improving," head coach Jim Schwartz said of Johnson on Tuesday. "[He's] another one we'll wait until Thursday to see."
Analysis: It looks like Johnson will be a game-time decision. With the game only four days after Week 11, we don't love Johnson's chances to play against the Packers. For now figure Johnson to be an injury risk for Week 12. If he does suit up, figure him to play like a No. 2 receiver since his knee could limit him, just as playing with Daunte Culpepper as his quarterback against a good Packers secondary would also limit him. We'll keep you posted and share more with you when we get it.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said Monday he was unsure about the availability of WR Calvin Johnson for Week 12 vs. the Packers. Johnson sustained a knee injury on the same play that saw QB Matthew Stafford get injured vs. Cleveland in Week 11. Johnson caught seven passes in the game for a total of 161 yards and a touchdown. When asked about Johnson's availability for the game, Schwartz simply said, "we'll see."
Analysis: With the game only four days after Week 11, we don't love Johnson's chances to play against the Packers. We'll keep you posted and share more with you when we get it, but for now figure Johnson to be an injury risk for Week 12. If he does suit up, figure him to play like a No. 2 receiver since his knee could limit him, just as playing with Daunte Culpepper as his quarterback against a good Packers secondary would also limit him.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson had his biggest game of the season on Sunday in a Week 11 win over the Browns. Johnson caught seven passes in the game for a total of 161 yards and a touchdown. His TD came on a 75-yard hook-up with Matthew Stafford in the second quarter.
Analysis: Stafford was able to throw all over the Browns defense on Sunday, gaining a total of 422 yards and throwing for five TD passes. However, Stafford injured his shoulder late in the game and is a question mark for Week 12 against Green Bay on Thanksgiving. Johnson has performed like a No. 1 Fantasy option the past two weeks but the chemistry he built with Stafford may be for not in Week 12 if the rookie QB can’t play. Either way, think of Johnson as a high-end No. 2 Fantasy option for Thursday’s game against Green Bay. Johnson did not play in the team’s first meeting against the Packers in Week 6 because of a knee injury.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson will be active on Sunday against the Browns. He was listed as probable for the game with a hand injury.
Analysis: Johnson should continue to play well in Week 11 against Cleveland. Consider him a low-end No. 1 option against the Browns.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson bounced back with a solid game Sunday at Minnesota with eight catches for 84 yards. Last week against Seattle, Johnson and QB Matthew Stafford appeared to be arguing on the sideline, but the two worked well in tandem against the Vikings.
Analysis: Johnson should continue to play well in Week 11 against Cleveland. Consider Johnson a low-end No. 1 option against the Browns.
News: As expected, Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) and QB Matthew Stafford (knee) were both named active for Week 10 at Minnesota.
Analysis: Hopefully Johnson is feeling better and can produce as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 10, but don't get your expectations too high. Stafford is only worth a shot as a low-end bye-week replacement option in super-deep leagues.
News: Lions coach Jim Schwartz says there's no feud between Calvin Johnson and Matt Stafford. During Sunday's game against Seattle, television cameras caught what appeared to be uncomfortable exchanges between the receiver and quarterback. Stafford threw five interceptions in the 32-20 loss. Johnson had two catches for 27 yards after missing the previous two games because of a knee injury. He was targeted nine times. "I haven't seen the TV replays, because there's no reason for me to watch them - we're fine," he said. "People are blowing this way out of proportion. Trust me, no one is going to be happy during a game like that. If you win, all this goes out the window." Johnson was able to practice in full all week and is considered probable for Week 10 at Minnesota.
Analysis: Johnson didn't look gimpy in the game, so hopefully the only concern here is that he and Stafford weren't on the same page. They should be fine going forward, though they'll have a tough matchup in Week 10 at Minnesota. Consider Johnson a No. 2 Fantasy WR at best for that game, though you might want to consider other high-reward options since Johnson hasn't been at his best for much of this season.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson returned to action for the first time since suffering a knee injury in Week 5 against Pittsburgh on Sunday in a Week 9 clash with the Seahawks. He caught only two passes in the game however, gaining a total of 27 yards. It was his worst performance of the season outside of the game against Pittsburgh when he got injured.
Analysis: Johnson and QB Matthew Stafford appeared to be on different pages at times in Week 9 and both players' stats suffered as a result. The Lions offense has been pretty awful most of the season and Johnson has only scored once in 2009. Hopefully he can turn things around in Week 10 at Minnesota but should only be considered a low-end No. 2 option for that tilt. In Week 2 against the Vikes, Johnson caught five passes for 51 yards and his only TD of the season.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson will return to action Week 9 against the Seahawks as expected. He had been on the injury report with a knee injury and had not played in three weeks.
Analysis: Ease the expectations on Johnson a bit and consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR this week since he's coming back from the knee problem, plus he hasn't been a beast for much of the season. He is however safe to use for Week 9.
News: ESPN is reporting that Calvin Johnson (knee) is expected to play in Week 9 at Seattle. He has been on the injury report with a knee injury and has not played in three weeks.
Analysis: We'll have official word once the inactives roll in from the Lions, but it does sound like Johnson will be a safe play in Week 9. Johnson might not be at 100 percent, but he'll still be a thorn in the sides of the Seahawks in Week 9. Ease the expectations a bit and consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR this week since he's coming back from the knee problem, plus he hasn't been a beast for much of the season. With the Lions not playing until 4 p.m. ET, you'll have to take a risk on Johnson if you want to activate him as if he suffers any setback before game time you'd be stuck with him in your lineup.
News: The Detroit News reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson practiced again on Friday and appears to be as healthy as can be after missing two games over three weeks with what is believed to be a sprained knee. Lions coach Jim Schwartz wouldn't commit to saying Johnson would play but said he was optimistic. Johnson is listed as questionable for the game. "As long as everything keeps going the way it is the next few days, I'll be all right," Johnson said Friday.
Analysis: Johnson might not be at 100 percent, but he'll still be a thorn in the sides of the Seahawks in Week 9. Ease the expectations a bit and consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR this week since he's coming back from the knee problem, plus he hasn't been a beast for much of the season. Still, you can start him without much worry about him being ruled out on Sunday. If you're looking for that definitive word, we'll know his official status around 2:45 p.m. ET on Sunday, so check with us before finalizing your Fantasy lineups.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) was a limited participant in practice for the second straight Thursday. Johnson remains a game-time decision. Coach Jim Schwartz said Johnson wasn't doing more work than Wednesday but added the quality of his reps has improved. Johnson said despite missing some time recently, the chemistry between he and rookie QB Matt Stafford hasn't been disrupted. "It's still there," Johnson said. "The kid has a heck of an arm and we have good chemistry."
Analysis: It sounds like Johnson could play against the Seahawks in Week 9, but continue to monitor his progress. If healthy and cleared to play against Seattle, Johnson would be considered a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson practiced Wednesday and took reps with the No. 1 offense -- something he didn't do last week when he practiced on a limited basis. Johnson took part in all the individual drills and was running smoothly. Johnson, who injured his right knee against the Pittsburgh Steelers, did not play in Detroit's previous two games. "(Calvin Johnson) will still be a game-time decision," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said.
Analysis: Continue to monitor Johnson's status and hope he can return at 100 percent at Seattle in Week 9. When healthy, Johnson is a solid Fantasy option in all leagues, and this would be great news if he can return against the Seahawks, who are No. 18 in pass defense with 10 touchdowns allowed. Hopefully he can continue to improve and will be cleared to play this week.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will be day-to-day this week in terms of practice availability. "He's getting closer," coach Jim Schwartz said Monday as the Lions head into Week 9 at Seattle.
Analysis: Johnson has missed the past two games and has been dealing with this injury for the past three weeks when you include the bye in Week 7. Keep an eye on his progress and hope he can return against the Seahawks. When healthy, Johnson is a solid Fantasy option in all leagues, but he needs to be 100 percent to consider as a starter in Week 9.
News: After an initial ESPN report said he would play, the Detroit News is confirming that Lions WR Calvin Johnson (knee) is OUT for Week 8 vs. St. Louis.
Analysis: Johnson should obviously be removed from all Fantasy lineups with this news that is contradicting the earlier report. When healthy, he's usually a No. 2 fantasy WR option. Dennis Northcutt and Bryant Johnson will start in Megatron's place, but will only be low-end Fantasy flex options at best.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice again Friday and is considered a game-time decision for Week 8 vs. St. Louis. But he received a vote of confidence from head coach Jim Schwartz that suggests that he might be able to play: "He can play without practicing," Schwartz said, referring to his big, burly receiver.
Analysis: If Johnson does suit up to play the Rams in Week 8 he should post some nice stats. St. Louis ranks 25th vs. the pass and has allowed 11 passing touchdowns this season. Johnson hasn't posted humongous numbers this year but should be alright even at less than 100 percent against the Rams. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com. Consider him a No. 2 option if he does play, though he certainly has potential to be a No. 1.
News: Lions QB Matt Stafford (knee) practiced for the second straight day Thursday while WR Calvin Johnson (knee) practiced for the first time this week. Both were limited, but Johnson more than Stafford. "They're both making good progress," Lions coach Jim Schwartz said of Stafford and Johnson, adding both still have a long way to go heading into Sunday's game against St. Louis.
Analysis: Keep an eye on Johnson's status and hope he can practice Friday. That would be a good indication if he can play against the Rams this week, although it doesn't look promising. When healthy, Johnson is a No. 1 Fantasy WR, but he needs to be 100 percent with his knee.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson continued to sit out of practice Wednesday according to Mlive.com. He's nursing what is believed to be a sprained knee suffered early in Week 5 vs. the Steelers. It has seemed like he's missed a ton of time, but he was out for Week 6 and was on bye in Week 7. The Lions host the Rams in Week 8, a game Johnson said he was optimistic that he'd be ready for earlier this week.
Analysis: We'll continue to be all over the news surrounding Johnson this week since if he does suit up to play the Rams in Week 8 he should post some nice stats. St. Louis ranks 25th vs. the pass and has allowed 11 passing touchdowns this season. Expect to get a good idea of where he's at by Friday -- if he doesn't practice by then, it would be unlikely that he'd play in the game on Sunday. He'd be at least a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR if he were to play.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson continued to rest his knee in practice on Tuesday, only playing catch on the sidelines while watching his teammates work. But the Detroit Free Press reports that Johnson was "definitely optimistic" that he's play in Week 8 vs. the Rams but was "not positive." Johnson missed Week 6 with what was initially described as a knee sprain. "It feels a lot better since last week," said Johnson. "It's just something we have to take day by day and see how it goes, and as long as it goes according to schedule, we'll be able to make a decision off of that."
Analysis: We'll be all over the news surrounding Johnson this week since if he does suit up to play the Rams in Week 8 he should post some nice stats. St. Louis ranks 25th vs. the pass and has allowed 11 passing touchdowns this season. He'd be at least a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR if he were to play.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson (knee) has been ruled out of the team's Week 6 game at Green Bay. Johnson was unable to practice all week and was not expected to be able to play.
Analysis: Johnson is one of the top receivers in the league and his absence is certainly a big blow to Fantasy owners in Week 6. However, owners should already have picked up a replacement for Johnson. Dennis Northcutt and Bryant Johnson will get additional looks from QB Daunte Culpepper with Johnson out but they are just low-end options.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson missed a third straight day of practice Friday with what is believed to be a sprained knee. Typically if players can't practice by Friday, they don't play on Sunday. The team has listed Johnson as questionable for the game at Green Bay in Week 6. Lions WRs Bryant Johnson and Dennis Northcutt are expected to start with Johnson out.
Analysis: It's too bad that Johnson won't play because he would be going up against a Packers defense he previously torched for 100 yards and two touchdowns in each of two meetings last season. For now, make plans to be without him on Sunday. Either of the Lions' receivers listed above would be considered low-end replacements for Johnson in Fantasy play; both were targeted eight times last week by QB Daunte Culpepper (who is expected to start), but Northcutt was significantly better. We'll be first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson sat out of practice for the second straight day Thursday with a thigh injury. He is expected to be a game-time decision for Sunday's game at Green Bay.
Analysis: It appears like Johnson might miss this game against the Packers. Continue to monitor his status and see what develops heading into Sunday's game. If healthy, Johnson should be considered a solid Fantasy option in all formats.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson did not practice Wednesday as he rests his right knee after taking a hit on it in Week 5. The Detroit Free Press reports that Johnson watched practice in sweats and was "hobbling" and "stiff-legged." There's talk among league insiders that Johnson has a sprained knee. "He's improving, but you saw that he wasn't able to do things today," head coach Jim Schwartz said of Johnson. "If he can't go, we have other guys who will have to step up, but it definitely changes the way a defense will play us. Calvin is the kind of guy that a coordinator always has to account for when he's on the field."
Analysis: Johnson might still get ruled out for that Week 6 game if he can't practice before Friday. Typically if players can't practice by Friday, they don't play on Sunday. If he can play, he'll be going up against a Packers defense he torched for 100 yards and two touchdowns in each of two meetings last season. We'll keep you posted on Johnson's status throughout the week.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said Monday that he would not rest WR Calvin Johnson this week just because the team has a bye in Week 7 and can get him an extra week of rest. Johnson had tests done on his banged up knee on Monday, with the results to be announced Wednesday. "I wouldn't label it as significant at this time," Schwartz said.
Analysis: Johnson might be a question mark for Week 6 against the Packers, and judging by how he's been playing he might be a questionable option for Fantasy owners too. We'll keep you posted on his status leading into the game, but don't expect him to perform any better than a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson left Week 5 against Pittsburgh in the first quarter after suffering an apparent knee injury. He pulled up lame and had to receive treatment on the sideline. He had just one catch for two yards in the game. He reportedly was hobbled as he simply tried to walk after the game.
Analysis: Johnson was on the injury report this week with a thigh injury, but this does not appear to be related. Trainers were looking at his knee on the sideline, which should be very troubling for Fantasy owners. Johnson never returned to the game, but he was visible on the sideline. That could be a good sign that the injury is not serious. Follow up on his status leading up to Week 6 at Green Bay. He's a must-start when healthy, but will more than likely be on the injury report.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson left Week 5 against Pittsburgh in the first quarter after suffering an apparent knee injury. He pulled up lame and had to receive treatment on the sideline.
Analysis: Johnson was on the injury report this week with a thigh injury, but this does not appear to be related. Trainers were looking at his knee on the sideline, which would not be a good thing by any means. Fantasy owners may be stuck with minimal production from Johnson now.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (thigh) was listed as active and a starter for Week 5 against Pittsburgh. He had been listed as probable and was expected to play.
Analysis: Johnson is active, but QB Matthew Stafford is not. Johnson's QB will be Daunte Culpepper against the Steelers and while that isn't ideal, Johnson has proven to be valuable in Fantasy regardless of who his quarterback has been in the past. Keep him active.
News: After being limited in practice again on Friday, the Lions listed WR Calvin Johnson as probable for Week 5 vs. the Steelers. He's expected to start, though he'll have a challenge posting big totals with Daunte Culpepper as his quarterback. Culpepper is expected to start in place of Matthew Stafford (knee), and he'll have trouble finding time to throw against a very aggressive Steelers pass rush.
Analysis: Johnson has actually played better on the road than at home this season -- he's had around 50 receiving yards in two home games thus far. He should be able to post at least that, and he has the potential to score a touchdown every week, so consider him a decent No. 2 Fantasy WR for the week. If you have other solid options in addition to 'Megatron,' you could consider them over Johnson in Week 5.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (thigh) returned to practice Thursday after missing Wednesday's workout. He was listed as limited in practice.
Analysis: Despite being limited on Thursday, all signs do point to Johnson being able to play in Week 5. With the matchup against the Steelers a tough one and with Daunte Culpepper potentially being his quarterback for the game, Johnson is no better than a No. 2 Fantasy WR for the game.
News: Lions head coach Jim Schwartz confirmed that wide receiver Calvin Johnson did not practice Wednesday after missing the end of the last game with a leg injury. No other details on Johnson's status or ailment have been made available, though he seemed optimistic that he'd be fine after his legs tightened up on him late in the Week 4 loss at Chicago.
Analysis: Fantasy owners will need to stay on top of this one over the next day or two and see whether or not Johnson practices. Typically if players can't practice by Friday, they don't play on Sunday, so we'd be more hopeful of an appearance by Johnson on Sunday if he practices before the end of the week. With the matchup against the Steelers a tough one and with Daunte Culpepper potentially being his quarterback for the game, Johnson is no better than a No. 2 Fantasy WR for the game. We'll keep you posted on his status.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had his best game of the season in terms of catches and yards with eight catches for 133 yards Sunday at Chicago. He also added a 12-yard run. But Johnson left Sunday's game late in the fourth quarter with an apparent leg injury. "I tried loosening my legs up, they got a little tight," he said. "I'll be all right, though."
Analysis: Johnson only has one touchdown on the season, but this is a good sign that he was heavily involved in the offense. The Lions play against the Steelers in Week 5, but keep Johnson active in all formats since it appears like he's OK. The one thing to note with Johnson heading into the Pittsburgh game is Matthew Stafford (knee) left the Bears game, and he was replaced by Daunte Culpepper. Still, Johnson thrived last year with five different quarterbacks, so it shouldn't make much of a difference who lines up at quarterback.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson caught five passes for 49 yards in Week 3's win over the Redskins. He also rushed once for 9 yards. Johnson made an impact on the game but QB Matthew Stafford spread the ball around and found plenty of open receivers.
Analysis: Johnson has made 13 receptions this season in three games and has gone for 190 yards and a score. His skills are too good not to start him each and every week. He should have a solid game Week 4 at Chicago. The Bears have a tough defense but if the Lions find the end zone through the air, it is liable that Johnson gets the TD grab. He's losing a bit of his luster thus far this year so consider him a low-end No. 1 option for Week 4.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will face a non-division opponent in Week 3 vs. Washington. The Redskins have allowed just 183.5 passing yards per game during the first two weeks of the season. They have allowed two touchdown passes.
Analysis: Johnson caught five passes for 51 yards and a score in Week 2 against a good Vikings defense and should be in line for useful Fantasy numbers once again in Week 3. He is not a player we recommend sitting in any type of league, regardless of matchup. We currently project him to catch five passes for 85 yards and a score in Week 3.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will face a non-division opponent in Week 3 vs. Washington. The Redskins have allowed just 183.5 passing yards per game during the first two weeks of the season. They have allowed two touchdown passes.
Analysis: Johnson caught five passes for 51 yards and a score in Week 2 against a good Vikings defense and should be in line for useful Fantasy numbers once again in Week 3. He is not a player we recommend sitting in any type of league, regardless of matchup. We currently project him to catch five passes for 85 yards and a score in Week 3.
News: The Lions recorded just one touchdown during a Week 2 loss to the Vikings and you guessed right if you said WR Calvin Johnson had a hand in it. Johnson gave the Lions a 10-0 lead when he hauled in a 8-yard touchdown from QB Matthew Stafford in the second quarter. Johnson finished with five catches for 51 yards. His longest gainer went 22 yards. He also had two carries for 16 yards.
Analysis: Even though the Lions have a rookie QB under center, Stafford knows he needs to get the ball to CJ to make plays. Megatron has yet to break 100 yards on the season but that should come with time as Stafford adjusts to the NFL. Johnson remains a No. 1 Fantasy WR heading into Week 3 against the Redskins.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will play a division opponent in Week 2 against Minnesota. Last season, Johnson caught seven passes for 169 yards, including two touchdowns, in two games against the Vikings.
Analysis: The Vikings allowed just 179 net passing yards in Week 1 at Cleveland, giving up just one touchdown pass. However, Megatron is above matchups in terms of whether or not Fantasy owner should activate him. He caught three passes for 90 yards in Week 1 and had an apparent touchdown taken away when he was called out of bounds on the play. We recommend activating him in all leagues while healthy.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson caught three passes for 90 yards in Week 1 at New Orleans. His longest gain came on a 64-yard pass where he was ruled out of bounds just prior to going into the end zone for a touchdown.
Analysis: Replays seemed to indicate that Johnson may have scored without going out of bounds on the play, but he wound up without a touchdown in the box score. Fantasy owners should still consider Johnson a high-end Fantasy receiver, but the play of rookie Matt Stafford in his first regular season game may be of some concern as he completed fewer than half his passes and finished with three interceptions and no touchdowns. Johnson has done well in the past with bad quarterback play and he should remain active in all leagues for Week 2 against Minnesota.
News:Calvin Johnson and the Detroit Lions will take on a non-divisional opponent in Week 1 when they travel to New Orleans to take on the Saints. Last season, the Saints ranked 23rd in the NFL in pass defense, allowing 221.7 yards per game. They allowed 21 touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson is used to playing indoors as all of his home games are in doors, so playing at the Superdome should be a comfortable environment for him. Johnson remains one of the elite receivers in Fantasy despite playing for the lowly Lions and the fact he'll have a rookie QB throwing his way should not scare anybody off. The Saints don't have a strong secondary and we are currently projecting Johnson to finish with seven catches for 114 yards and a score. Start him in all leagues.
News:Calvin Johnson's preseason concluded with two nice catches from Matthew Stafford for 56 yards. He also had a 34-yard touchdown catch from Stafford nullified by a penalty. In two preseason games, Johnson caught six passes for 123 yards.
Analysis: All signs point to Johnson continuing on as a stud Fantasy receiver with unparalled size, speed and hands -- and that's regardless of who his quarterback is. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a second-round pick and a must-start Week 1 at New Orleans.
News: In the Lions' third preseason game vs. the Colts, WR Calvin Johnson started as he overcame a nagging thumb injury and caught four passes for 67 yards. He almost came up with a touchdown when Matthew Stafford threw in his direction in the face of a pass rush and Johnson couldn't quite hold on.
Analysis: This wasn't a bad first outing for Johnson this preseason, and all signs point to him continuing on as a stud Fantasy receiver with unparalled size, speed and hands. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR worth a second-round pick.
News: The Detroit News reports that receivers Calvin Johnson (thumb) and Bryant Johnson (soreness) should be ready to play in the team's upcoming preseason game against Indianapolis.
Analysis: Fantasy owners clearly don't have much to worry about with Johnson as he should be ready for the start of the season barring any further injuries. While some people make it a policy to avoid drafting Fantasy players from bad teams, nobody can deny Johnson is one of the NFL's top receivers. He was unbelievably good in his second season, catching 78 passes for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns. Following the logical assumption that quarterback play can't possibly get any worse, his numbers should be at least as good as last year. Johnson remains an elite Fantasy WR.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (thumb) sat out Saturday's preseason game vs. Cleveland as expected.
Analysis: The Lions aren't overly concerned with Johnson's sprained thumb, so don't devalue him on Draft Day. While some people make it a policy to avoid drafting Fantasy players from bad teams, nobody can deny Johnson is one of the NFL's top receivers. He was unbelievably good in his second season, catching 78 passes for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns. Those would be huge numbers any year, but Johnson was even more impressive considering just how pathetic the rest of the offense was. The Lions scored only about 17 points a game, fewer than 26 other teams, and had major injury woes at quarterback. Johnson went over 100 yards five times and scored in 10 games. Following the logical assumption that quarterback play can't possibly get any worse, his numbers should be at least as good as last year. Johnson remains an elite Fantasy WR.
News: NFL.com reports Lions head coach Jim Schwartz said Thursday that injured wide receiver Calvin Johnson will not play in Saturday's preseason game against the Browns. Schwartz said Johnson, who has been sidelined with a sprained thumb, will probably be held out another week. Schwartz is hoping to have Johnson back in the lineup by the team's third preseason game against the Colts Aug. 29. "He'll probably come out of his little splint fairly soon -- an idea toward Indianapolis getting him back," Schwartz said.
Analysis: Schwartz and the Lions aren't overly concerned with Johnson's sprained thumb, so don't devalue him on Draft Day. While some people make it a policy to avoid drafting Fantasy players from bad teams, nobody can deny Johnson is one of the NFL's top receivers. He was unbelievably good in his second season, catching 78 passes for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns. Those would be huge numbers any year, but Johnson was even more impressive considering just how pathetic the rest of the offense was. The Lions scored only about 17 points a game, fewer than 26 other teams, and had major injury woes at quarterback. Johnson went over 100 yards five times and scored in 10 games. Following the logical assumption that quarterback play can't possibly get any worse, his numbers should be at least as good as last year. Johnson remains an elite Fantasy WR.
News: Even though the Detroit Lions were horrific as they embarrassed their way through the only 0-16 record in NFL history, there were some bright spots. Unfortunately for the Lions, those few sunny moments came mostly in Fantasy Football. Their success in a made-up game still got everybody fired, of course, but those few glimmers of hope and the subsequent offseason changes actually make the Lions an intriguing team when it comes to the 2009 Fantasy Football season. The big names are receiver Calvin Johnson and running back Kevin Smith, but there are also a few potential sleepers who could turn into Fantasy bench players or even develop into starters. Throw in a kicker and there could be at least five Lions worth keeping on Fantasy rosters.
Analysis: While some people make it a policy to avoid drafting Fantasy players from bad teams, nobody can deny Johnson is one of the NFL's top receivers. He was unbelievably good in his second season, catching 78 passes for 1,331 yards and 12 touchdowns -- one of them for 96 yards. Those would be huge numbers any year, but Johnson was even more impressive considering just how pathetic the rest of the offense was. The Lions scored only about 17 points a game, fewer than 26 other teams, and had major injury woes. Dan Orlovsky was the starting quarterback most of the time (7 games), followed by Jon Kitna (5 games) and Daunte Culpepper (who went from retired couch potato to NFL starter in less than a week and started four times). Even with all those spare parts throwing his way -- and every defense knowing they were throwing his way -- Johnson went over 100 yards five times and scored in 10 games. Following the logical assumption that quarterback play can't possibly get any worse, his numbers should be at least as good as last year. Johnson remains an elite Fantasy WR.
News:Calvin Johnson took the field without a cast covering his right thumb on Tuesday. The team's leading returning receiver ran in some drills, but quarterbacks were instructed not to throw to him. He missed the preseason opener and his status for Saturday's second exhibition game at Cleveland remains unsettled.
Analysis: Johnson appears to be on the mend and on target to start the season healthy. Johnson is expected to have another monster season with the Lions as Matthew Stafford takes over in Detroit. Johnson should be considered a Top 5 Fantasy WR worth a pick early in the second round of all leagues.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson sat out of Saturday's preseason game on Saturday against the Falcons. He is considered questionable for the team's upcoming game at Cleveland.
Analysis: This injury is hopefully not something serious as Johnson is expected to have another monster season with the Lions as Matthew Stafford takes over in Detroit. Johnson should be considered a Top 5 Fantasy WR worth a pick early in the second round of all leagues.
News: According to a report, Lions WR Calvin Johnson is not expected to play in Saturday's preseason opener against Atlanta. Johnson still has a cast on his right hand to protect his jammed thumb, reports mlive.com.
Analysis: Hopefully this is nothing serious as Fantasy owners everywhere are depending on Johnson to deliver huge stats for the third straight season. We see Johnson as a Top 5 Fantasy WR worth a pick early in the second round of all leagues.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson wore a cast around his right thumb and did not practice on Monday. Nothing is broken, but his thumb has been sore and the team wants to protect it. According to head coach Jim Schwartz, Johnson will wear the cast "until it gets better," adding it's a precautionary measure.
Analysis: Hopefully this is nothing serious as Fantasy owners everywhere are depending on Johnson to deliver huge stats for the third straight season. We see Johnson as a Top 5 Fantasy WR worth a pick early in the second round of all leagues.
News: The Detroit News reports Lions WR Calvin Johnson is far from a diva like other star players at his position. Lions coach Jim Schwartz said he doesn't worry about Johnson. He loves his work ethic and attention to detail. "He doesn't create headaches for me," Schwartz said. "I don't have fires I have to put out for Calvin. That gives me more time to deal with more important things." Johnson admitted he'd ask for the football if he feels neglected in the offense but said he'd keep it low key. "I mean if I think I am open during a game and can help the team, I will say throw me the ball," he said. Schwartz said he doesn't care if Johnson becomes more demonstrative. What does Johnson want to be if he's not a diva? "Just plain ol' Calvin, man," he said. Just plain ol' Calvin."
Analysis: Plain old Calvin has been pretty good for Fantasy owners despite not having a good QB. Now, he gets either a rookie in Matthew Stafford or a veteran trying to turn his career around in Daunte Culpepper. It hasn't really mattered to Johnson who is throwing him the ball, which showed last year when he had more than 1,300 receiving yards and 12 touchdown catches in spite of his club going 0-16. We see Johnson as a Top 5 Fantasy WR worth a pick early in the second round of all leagues.
News: The Lions made Georgia QB Matthew Stafford the No. 1 overall pick in the 2009 NFL Draft, giving the team a thick, strong-armed quarterback to lead them into the future. That's good news for Calvin Johnson, who has made a living posting huge numbers on a near-weekly basis with mediocre quarterbacks since he entered the league.
Analysis: Johnson and Stafford should team up for many big plays over the course of their respective careers, but it's not going to start right away in Motown. Daunte Culpepper is expected to be Detroit's starter at the onset of the '09 season, but that's not necessarily bad for Johnson, either. There's no denying Johnson's ability as he ended last season with more than 1,300 receiving yards and 12 touchdown catches in spite of his club going 0-16. We see Johnson as a Top-3 Fantasy WR worth a pick between 11th and 15th overall in all drafts this summer.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had nine catches for 102 yards and two TD grabs in Week 17 at Green Bay. Johnson ended the season with more than 1,300 receiving yards and 12 touchdown catches. Pretty good considering the Lions went 0-16 this season.
Analysis: One of the only bright spots for the Lions this year, Johnson continued to establish himself as a top of the line receiver in this league. He is a solid No. 1 receiving option heading into the 2009 season.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson is active for Week 17 at Green Bay. He was listed as probable coming into the game with a knee injury that kept him limited in practice this past week. Johnson had four catches for 64 yards last week against the Saints.
Analysis: This is good news for Johnson owners who are hoping the Lions will play well today to try and avoid going 0-16 for the first time in NFL history. Get Johnson active if you haven't already.
News: WR Chris Hannon, QB Daunte Culpepper, QB Drew Henson (Third QB), WR Travis Taylor, RB Rudi Johnson and DE Corey Smith have all been listed as inactive for Week 17 at Green Bay.
Analysis: Culpepper not being active isn't much of a surprise and Rudi Johnson didn't get a single carry last week so he has very little Fantasy value as well. The rest of these players have no value in Fantasy.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice on Wednesday and Thursday but practiced in full on Friday with a knee injury, something he suffered late in last week's game. He is listed as probable and appears to be likely to play at the Packers in Week 17.
Analysis: Johnson had touchdowns in four of his previous five weeks before Week 16's performance against the Saints' mediocre defense. The Packers' pass defense was decent in Week 16 but has been burned by Johnson before -- he totaled 129 yards and two touchdowns in Week 2 against Green Bay. Look for him to score and post good totals in the finale.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice on Wednesday with a knee injury, something he suffered late in last week's game. He told the Detroit Free Press that he thinks he will play at the Packers in Week 17.
Analysis: Johnson had touchdowns in four of his previous five weeks before Week 16's performance against the Saints' mediocre defense. The Packers' pass defense was decent in Week 16 but has been burned by Johnson before -- he totaled 129 yards and two touchdowns in Week 2 against Green Bay. Look for him to score and post good totals in the finale.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson caught four passes for 64 yards to lead the Lions in a loss to the Saints in Week 16. Johnson was seen hurting on the sidelines late in the game with an apparent leg injury. He did have a 43-yard TD pass called back because of a penalty.
Analysis: Johnson had touchdowns in four of his previous five weeks before Week 16's performance against the Saints mediocre defense. The problem was Dan Orlovsky was so bad he had to be replaced by Drew Stanton in the game. That issue will still be around in Week 17 at Green Bay and the Packers have a solid pass defense. Still, a healthy Johnson would be a must-start Fantasy option as he totaled 129 yards and two touchdowns in Week 2 against Green Bay.
News:Calvin Johnson knows why he isn't going to the Pro Bowl. While it's too late to salvage a trip to Honolulu, Johnson and the Lions have two chances to avoid going down in history as the NFL's first 0-16 team. Even though the Lions haven't won a game, Johnson has turned into the dominant playmaker that the Lions expected when they drafted him with the second overall pick in 2007. He currently ranks fifth in the league in receiving yards with 1,165 and is tied for second with 10 touchdowns. His seven receptions of 40 yards or more is tied for the NFL lead with San Diego's Vincent Jackson and Green Bay's Greg Jennings. Johnson has accomplished all that despite the Lions using a team-record five quarterbacks and losing their other three receiving threats through trade (Roy Williams) or injury (Shaun McDonald and Mike Furrey).
Analysis: Look for Johnson to remain hot for the rest of this season. He is a must-start Fantasy option for Week 16 against the Saints.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson topped 100 yards receiving for the first time in eight games Week 15 at Indianapolis, catching nine balls for 110 yards. He also scored a touchdown, twisting out of several tackles on a 33-yard catch-and-run in the second quarter. Johnson's 10 TD receptions are the most by a Lions player since Herman Moore had 14 in 1995. He did lose a fumble in the game, though.
Analysis: Johnson seemed to respond well to QB Dan Orlovsky's return to the starting lineup, so hopefully Orlovsky will take the reigns from Daunte Culpepper for good. Even if he doesn't, Johnson remains such a big and steady target that he'll get his numbers. Keep him active in all Fantasy leagues for Week 16 against the Saints.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson is active for Week 15 at Indianapolis even though he went through limited practice reps all week because of a hand injury.
Analysis: Johnson doesn't have the greatest matchup this week, but he remains too valuable to sit. The return of Dan Orlovsky at quarterback might get him back over 100 yards, so keep him active as a No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson went through limited practice reps all week, including Friday, and is listed as questionable for the Week 15 game at Indianapolis.
Analysis: Johnson is still expected to play, but it won't hurt Fantasy owners to come up with a contingency plan in case he's made inactive. After all, from the Lions' perspective, they may not want to risk their star receiver getting hurt in a game that's pretty much meaningless and not a likely win. We'll be the first to know whether or not he'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will have a new QB this week. According to a report, Lions QB Daunte Culpepper (shoulder) missed his second straight day of practice Thursday, and Lions coach Rod Marinelli said that Dan Orlovsky would start against the Colts on Sunday. Orlovsky, who has missed the last five weeks with a broken right thumb, said his thumb is feeling fine and shouldn't be an issue during the game, reports mlive.com.
Analysis: You still have to start Johnson, but consider him a No. 2 Fantasy WR this week. On top of Orlovsky being the starter, the Colts have only allowed four passing touchdowns this season.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was limited in practice on Wednesday with a hand injury. Johnson made three catches for 84 yards and a touchdown in Week 14's loss to the Vikings. Daunte Culpepper, playing against his former team, reminded fans of his glory years, perfectly heaving a pass to Johnson for a 70-yard TD that gave Detroit a 13-10 lead in the third period.
Analysis: Johnson remains the best Fantasy player on an otherwise awful team and hopefully this injury won't take away from his ability to catch passes from whoever is throwing them. He's got 9 touchdowns on the season and three in the last four weeks. He remains someone to start through thick and thin in Week 15 at Indianapolis as long as he plays.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson made three catches for 84 yards and a touchdown in Week 14's loss to the Vikings. Daunte Culpepper, playing against his former team, reminded fans of his glory years, perfectly heaving a pass to Johnson for a 70-yard TD that gave Detroit a 13-10 lead in the third period.
Analysis: Johnson remains the best Fantasy player on an otherwise awful team. He's got 9 touchdowns on the season and three in the last four weeks. He remains someone to start through thick and thin in Week 15 at Indianapolis.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had his two-game touchdown streak end Thanksgiving Day against the Titans. He will look to start a new streak Sunday against Minnesota. In three games against the Vikings, Johnson has nine catches for 163 yards and two touchdowns, including four catches for 85 yards and a touchdown in Week 6 this year.
Analysis: Look for Johnson to start a new streak this week. The Vikings have allowed 11 passing touchdowns on the season and will struggle to stay with Johnson. Consider him a No. 1 Fantasy WR.
News: In the Lions' 47-10 loss vs. the Titans on Thanksgiving as part of Week 13 action, WR Calvin Johnson was targeted 10 times but caught just five passes for 66 yards with his longest catch being 20 yards on a deep ball late in the game.
Analysis: For weeks we were concerned about Johnson's production dipping because of the bad offense and quarterback play in Detroit, but Johnson continually put up good numbers. This is about as bad as it could get for Johnson's owners, and there's no guarantee that he'll exceed this total in any given week. But because he is brimming with talent and potential, owners are forced to keep him active. We like his chances for a better game vs. Minnesota in Week 14.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson caught three passes for 66 yards and a touchdown in Week 12's loss to Tampa Bay. He's got a touchdown in six of his last seven contests for the Lions. He leads Detroit with 48 catches for 905 yards and eight scores and aims to join Herman Moore (1995) as the only Lions to ever record 70 catches, 1,200 yards and 10 touchdowns in a season.
Analysis: The Lions host Tennessee on Thanksgiving and the Titans bring the seventh best passing defense in football to Detroit. The defense will play even better than that coming off their first loss in which they were embarrassed by Brett Favre and the Jets. Expect nothing to come easy against Tennessee on Thursday but still use Johnson as a must-start receiver because if any Lion can put up Fantasy points this week, it will be him.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson scored for the sixth time in his last seven games when he caught a 15-yard touchdown pass from Daunte Culpepper in a Week 12 loss to Tampa Bay. Johnson finished with three catches for 66 yards.
Analysis: Johnson continues to find the end zone on a consistent basis for one of the worst teams in football. He only has one 100-yard game in the last eight weeks however, which is odd considering how often the Lions have to come from behind. Detroit hosts Tennessee in Week 13 on Thanksgiving Day, and Johnson remains a must-start Fantasy WR option.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (quadricep) is listed as probable for Week 12 vs. Tampa Bay. Johnson returned to a full practice Friday after limited reps Thursday and sitting out Wednesday.
Analysis: Johnson hasn't missed a game this season due to injury, and despite the fact he has gone through a bevy of quarterbacks, his game has hardly suffered. Johnson has become a viable No. 1 Fantasy WR and remains that heading into Week 12.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson returned to practice on Thursday and is expected to play in Week 12 against Tampa Bay, according to MLive.com. He was upgraded after not practicing on Wednesday with a quad injury.
Analysis: Johnson has a touchdown catch in five of the last six weeks for the lowly Lions. He's the best Fantasy option on a terrible team, so keep him active assuming he plays against the Buccaneers.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson didn't practice because of a quadricep injury Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 12 against the Buccaneers. He caught six passes for 65 yards Week 11.
Analysis: Johnson has a touchdown catch in five of the last six weeks for the lowly Lions. He's the best Fantasy option on a terrible team, so keep him active assuming he plays against the Buccaneers.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson caught six passes for 65 yards and a touchdown from Daunte Culpepper on Sunday of Week 11. Johnson caught a 29-yard TD pass in the 1st quarter and was given a few early looks but did not continue to have a monster game.
Analysis: Johnson has a touchdown catch in five of the last six weeks for the lowly Lions. He's the best Fantasy option on a terrible team. Continue to start him in Week 12 against Tampa Bay.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson made two catches for 92 yards in a Week 10 loss to the Jaguars.
Analysis: Johnson has had three games of over 90 yards in his last four games, but only one of those featured more than two catches. Still, he's really one of the only solid contributors for the Lions and is making plays despite a ton of attention from opposing defenses. Continue to start him in all formats heading into Week 11 at Carolina.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, who entered with no more than four catches in five straight games, had eight catches for 94 yards Week 9 at Chicago. He even scored a touchdown on a 17-yard pass and now has a touchdown reception in four straight games.
Analysis: Even with all of the Lions' offensive struggles, including the transition to Dan Orlovsky at quarterback, Johnson has managed to produce the stats of a No. 1 Fantasy WR. He might not have the consistency of the top receivers that play for some of the elite offenses around the league, but his freakish ability will give him solid numbers more often than not. Keep him active for Week 10 against the Jaguars.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson was quiet for a lot of the game against the Redskins on Sunday of Week 8. Johnson caught four passes for 57 yards in the game and caught a touchdown from Dan Orlovsky in the fourth quarter on fourth down. It went for 17 yards. Johnson also rushed once for seven yards in the game.
Analysis: Johnson is doing the best he can with the mess of a situation in Detroit, and would have had a very mediocre day if not for his late touchdown. Still, no matter who is throwing him the ball, Johnson is an elite talent and remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats for Week 9 at Chicago.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had a 96-yard touchdown catch to thank for his return to triple digits in a Week 7 loss to the Texans. Johnson finished with two catches for 154 yards and the score, ending a three-week span of producing under 100 yards receiving. Johnson also ran once for minus-two yards.
Analysis: Johnson is doing the best he can with the mess of a situation in Detroit, and would have had a very mediocre day if not for his monster bomb from Dan Orlovsky in the fourth quarter. Still, no matter who is throwing him the ball, Johnson is an elite talent and remains a must-start in all Fantasy formats for Week 8 vs. Washington.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson was a full participant in Thursday's practice with the Lions and is probable for Week 7 against Houston. He's expected to play, according to the Detroit Free Press.
Analysis: Even with Roy Williams traded to Dallas and Jon Kitna lost for the season, it's going to be hard for Johnson to find the bench in Fantasy Football. He's got a nice matchup in Week 7 at Houston, and don't forget that he caught a touchdown pass from Dan Orlovsky last week, so the two have the potential to hook up again. With his status looking more and more like he'll be healthy, Johnson remains a must-start in Week 7.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was held out of practice on Wednesday after suffering a concussion in Week 6 at Minnesota. He is still expected to play on Sunday according to coach Rod Marinelli. "I think he'll be fine," he said. "That's what they're saying. We held him out a little bit today. But they feel ... wait and see. But he should be ready to go by Thursday."
Analysis: Johnson's owners should keep tabs on the status of this stud receiver. Even with Roy Williams traded to Dallas and Jon Kitna lost for the season, it's going to be hard for Johnson to find the bench in Fantasy Football. He's got a nice matchup in Week 7 at Houston, and don't forget that he caught a touchdown pass from Dan Orlovsky last week, so the two have the potential to hook up again.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson is now the No. 1 WR in Detroit without question with former teammate Roy Williams being traded to Dallas on Tuesday. Johnson already leads the Lions in receiving with 23 catches for 377 yards and three touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson could face more coverage now that he doesn't have Williams playing opposite him, but he has enough trouble with Jon Kitna (back) out for the year and Dan Orlovsky struggling. Continue to start Johnson as a No. 2 Fantasy WR, especially in Week 7 at Houston, but lower your expecations for him because of his quarterback woes and his lack of talent on the opposite side of the field.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson left Week 6 at Minnesota in the fourth quarter after receiving a big hit that forced a fumble. He was seen standing on the sideline after the hit, but was not allowed back in the game. Johnson had four catches for 85 yards and touchdown before leaving.
Analysis: Johnson made the most of a slow offensive game for the Lions with QB Dan Orlovsky filling in for Jon Kitna. The four catches and 85 yards led his team in receiving. The fact that he was able to remain on the sideline after the hit is a good sign he should be able to play next week at Houston. He remains a must-start.
News:Calvin Johnson and Roy Williams will be both be active for Week 6 at Minnesota. Both had been listed as questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Both receivers will have inexperienced QB Dan Orlovsky throwing them the ball, so their appeal in Fantasy is still a bit cloudy this week. However, if you were waiting to hear if they would play or not, here's your answer.
News: Lions WRs Calvin Johnson (knee) and Roy Williams (hip) did not practice on Friday in preparation for Week 6 at Minnesota. They are both listed as questionable on the injury report, but Lions coach Rod Marinelli expects them to play. "I think they'll be fine," Marinelli said Friday. If they play, they'll be catching passes from backup QB Dan Orlovsky, who is expected to start in place of Jon Kitna, who is doubtful with a back injury.
Analysis: Reel in the expectations for Johnson and Williams -- and that's if they play at all. It wouldn't hurt to have a backup plan in place in the event that they cannot go on Sunday. We'll be first to know whether or not they'll be active this Sunday on Fantasy Football Today, 11 a.m. ET here on CBSSports.com, so tune in to find out their status.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson has now had two poor weeks in a row for the Lions. He caught just two passes for 16 yards last week against the Bears after going for 40 yards on four catches in Week 3 at San Francisco. Johnson started the season with two monster weeks totaling 13 catches for 236 yards and two touchdowns. The Lions meet the Vikings in Minnesota in Week 6, and Johnson caught five passes for 78 yards and a touchdown last season in two games against them.
Analysis: The Vikings are among the bottom half of the NFL in terms of pass defense and we expect Johnson could bounce back from two poor weeks in Week 6. The Detroit QB situation is going to hurt his production a bit, but treat Johnson like a high-end No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into the game against Minnesota.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson was expected to have a big game vs. Chicago in Week 5 (he was expected to play big every week), but he came up ice cold for the second game in a row. He caught two passes for 16 yards as part of a lackluster Lions offense. Johnson has 56 receiving yards in his last two games; he had well over 200 receiving yards in his first two games.
Analysis: Johnson has so much talent and upside and is just being wasted in Detroit. In fact, he was targeted just six times. Some of this might have had to do with the strong Bears defense, but we tend to think otherwise. He's still worth a look when he plays at the Vikings in Week 6, but considering the state of the Lions' QB corps, his numbers may not reach 100 yards receiving for a while.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson will return from a bye to face the Chicago Bears in Week 5. Chicago has allowed the fifth most passing yards per game at 246.5. They've allowed four passing touchdowns.
Analysis: Johnson caught just four passes for 40 yards in Week 4 at San Francisco. His longest catch went for 15 yards, but actually led the team in catches on an afternoon when quarterback Jon Kitna threw for just 146 yards. Johnson played the Bears just once last season, finishing with two 22-yard catches. We still consider him a great start for Week 5.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson caught four passes for 40 yards in Week 4 at San Francisco. His longest catch went for 15 yards.
Analysis: Johnson actually led the Lions in catches on an afternoon when quarterback Jon Kitna threw for just 146 yards. The team will get a week to regroup as they'll head into their bye before returning in Week 5 to face Chicago. Despite this slow game, Johnson remains a must-start in Fantasy.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had six catches for 129 yards and two touchdowns Sunday against the Packers. Johnson now has 13 catches for 236 yards and two touchdowns on the season.
Analysis: Johnson is proving to be a solid breakout player in his second year and should be considered a must-start in all leagues. Johnson is a No. 1 Fantasy WR in Week 3 at San Francisco.
News:Calvin Johnson is the quietest spectacular athlete to play for the Detroit Lions since Barry Sanders played his final season a decade ago. The No. 2 pick in the NFL draft last year usually says just a few words when reporters ask him questions and rarely makes eye contact. "I'm just quiet," Johnson insists. "The media can twist words even when you don't say much, and I've been burned a couple of times. It happened in college and here." Clearly, Johnson would rather let his skills speak for him, and the next time they'll be on display will be Sunday in Detroit's home opener against the Green Bay Packers. If he plays anything like he did in last week's loss at Atlanta, his game will have a lot to say. He matched a career high with seven catches and broke a personal mark with 107 yards, 38 of which came on a short crossing pattern that left the Falcons in the dust. "That play impressed me," teammate Roy Williams said. "Two guys were coming at him and he pulled away. That's awesome. You can't coach that."
Analysis: Receivers coach Shawn Jefferson agrees, saying he's working with a player who physically looks like a young Randy Moss -- with a better attitude. "That's exactly what he is, but I think he'll be better," Jefferson said. "I'm not taking a jab at Randy Moss, but this guy wants to block and run dummy routes down the middle of the field if that helps the team. And, this kid has the mental makeup to be great, and this year he's taking a step toward that because he has worked so hard on his footwork." Johnson's rookie year was stunted after he hurt his back in Week 3, limiting him the rest of the year. He finished with a respectable 48 receptions, 756 yards and four touchdowns. "It took me a whole offseason to truly get healthy," he said. "Now, everything has slowed down for me." That's a scary thought for anyone trying to defend him -- like the Packers. Johnson had 11 catches in two games against Green Bay last season, including a seven-catch effort in the second meeting. We have him ranked as our fourth-best Fantasy WR for Week 2, so get him active in all formats.
News: Lions second-year WR Calvin Johnson will face the Packers for the third time in his career in Week 2. In 2007 against Detroit, Johnson had 11 catches in two games against Green Bay, including a seven-catch effort in the second meeting.
Analysis: Johnson got his season off to a great start in Week 1 with seven grabs for 107 yards. While he might not match those stats in Week 2 against a pretty good Packers defense, we have him ranked as our fourth-best Fantasy WR, so get him active in all formats.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson had a pretty good first game on Sunday against the Falcons in defeat. Johnson seemed to be Jon Kitna's favorite target as he amassed seven catches for 107 yards. He did not find the end zone, however.
Analysis: Many feel that Roy Williams is the Lions' go-to receiver but it looked to be Johnson on Sunday. The Lions meet the Packers in Week 2 and that is another chance for Johnson to shine. He should be starting in all Fantasy leagues heading into next week.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson opened his rookie season of 2007 with touchdowns in each of his first two games. He will try to start his 2008 campaign in similar fashion when he takes on the Falcons secondary in Atlanta in Week 1.
Analysis: With all the questions at running back in Detroit this season, the Lions are expected to throw the ball around a ton, even with Mike Martz gone. Johnson is a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 in drafts. If he can just stay healthy for a full season, he's got almost unlimited potential. Get him active in all Fantasy lineups for the opening week.
News:Lions WR Calvin Johnson didn't play a lot in Sunday's preseason game against the Bengals, but when he was in there he did a lot of damage. Johnson teamed with starting QB Jon Kitna on the first pass of the game for a 40-yard gain and Kitna later found him in the end zone for a 27-yard score. Johnson caught all three of Kitna's completions for 76 yards and the score.
Analysis: Kitna was 3-for-3 for 76 yards and so was Johnson. Add in Roy Williams and the Lions look to have a pretty good pass catching threesome going in 2008. Figure Johnson to be a candidate for at least 850 yards this season with a decent touchdown total, making him a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 in drafts. If he can just stay healthy for a full season, he's got almost unlimited potential.
News: Lions head coach Rod Marinelli said WR Calvin Johnson has a bruise on his leg that has kept him out of practice. He's listed as day-to-day. Johnson had 78 yards on four catches in the team's preseason debut vs. the Giants.
Analysis: Johnson should be fine, but between his serious back injury last year and his leg injury now, there are some doubts starting to creep in on whether or not he can last for 16 games. Even with that being the case, Johnson's upside is through the roof. Figure Johnson to be a candidate for at least 850 yards this season with a decent touchdown total, making him a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 in drafts.
News: Playing for just two series, Lions WR Calvin Johnson finished the team's first preseason game with 78 yards on four catches. The highlight was when Kitna hit Johnson with a perfect 25-yard jump ball where he went over Giants CB Corey Webster for the catch. He also had a 38-yard catch thanks to some nifty scrambling from Kitna.
Analysis: The Lions say they want to run the ball more, but it's going to be impossible for them to ignore Johnson's talent. Figure Johnson to be a candidate for at least 850 yards this season with a decent touchdown total, making him a low-end No. 2/top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 8 in drafts.
News: Lions head coach Rod Marinelli has high hopes for second-year WR Calvin Johnson this season. His intentions are to run the ball enough to bring opposing safeties into the box, creating mismatches deep for his receivers. He also hopes to not see his star receiver hurt his back going up for deep passes again. "We know his talent level and it's big," Marinelli said. "He's tougher than nails. ... At times we will get (him) up high, because he's going to go out and rebound most people. When you get up, you got both hands on the ball, it's not like rebounding a basketball you got feet under you. ... Sometimes we just put it up. When we get some single coverage, we got to put it up - let's go make a play."
Analysis: Johnson has all the measurables you'd drool over in an NFL receiver. The Lions want to run the ball more in '08, but Johnson should still see his fair share of balls tossed his way. We like him as a quality No. 3 Fantasy WR with obvious upside.
News: The Detroit News reports the focus at wide receiver this year in Detroit could shift from Roy Williams to Calvin Johnson as the primary threat. Johnson has everything required to be a great player.
Analysis: Johnson, who was limited last year with a back problem, has the talent to be a No. 1 option for the Lions and Fantasy owners. But it's not like Williams is a slug, and Williams is in a contract year. Look for both players to shine and be great Fantasy targets. For now, consider Williams a No. 2 Fantasy WR and Johnson a high-end No. 3 option.
News: The Detroit Free-Press reports Lions WR Calvin Johnson was absent Monday. He also was absent Wednesday, the last time practice was open to the media. The practices are voluntary. "It's personal for him," coach Rod Marinelli said. "I know where he's at. It's a private issue for him."
Analysis: Hopefully there is nothing wrong with Johnson and he will return to the field soon. He enters 2008 as a solid Fantasy option after a suspect rookie year. Johnson should be drafted as a No. 3 Fantasy WR with the upside to start for you every week based on his talent.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson didn't want to talk last year about the fact that he never got healthy after suffering a deep bone bruise in his lower back in the third game of the season against the Philadelphia Eagles, reports mlive.com. Johnson continued to play most of the games but was nowhere near full strength. "I was on meds the rest of the season. I was taking Vicodin twice a game just to get through the game," Johnson said. "I stayed hurt the whole season, probably because I was trying to come back too soon. But I'm not going to be the kind of guy who's going to say, 'I can't do this or this because I'm hurt.'" Johnson said he still feels some discomfort from the injury, but expects to be 100 percent by training camp. "I had almost 800 yards last year and I'm not saying I could double that, but I can put up 1,200 yards." Johnson said. "I did that in college in 14 games. I expect the highest out of myself, and I put big numbers in front of myself as goals. I'll get 1,000 yards, no doubt."
Analysis: Last year, despite being limited with the back injury, Johnson caught 48 passes for 756 yards and four touchdowns and also scored on a 32-yard run. He should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in 2008, especially if he lives up to his lofty expectations.
News: The Detroit News reports that Lions WR Calvin Johnson took five weeks off after the season to rest his lower back and is participating in the club's offseason conditioning program. "I still feel it, but I can do everything I need to do on the field," he said of his back. "I know it's there but it doesn't hurt. That's what really stopped me. That's really why I couldn't run. It bothered me the whole season. I'd take a little something every week just to get through the game. When you try to push off the ball and stuff, it hurts."
Analysis: Johnson exceeded expectations for the first two weeks of the NFL season, scoring in consecutive games. After Week 2, however, Johnson was mostly unreliable and wildly inconsistent thanks to his injury. In total, Johnson had 48 catches for 756 yards and four touchdowns with four rushes for 52 yards including a nifty 32-yard touchdown run in Week 7 vs. Green Bay. Johnson displayed his excellent vertical, speed and size as a rookie, but dropped his fair share of passes and didn't play with aggression over the course of the season. Fantasy owners who sunk a fifth-round pick into him bought the hype in 2007 and got left holding the bag. Thing is, he'll still have plenty of hype heading into 2008 and might be a fifth-round pick in '08 drafts, too. That's a smidge too high -- figure Johnson to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR next season, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 7.
News: In a conversation with ex-Lions offensive coordinator Mike Martz at the NFL Combine, MLive.com reports that per Martz, WR Calvin Johnson seriously hurt his back in Week 3, missed Week 4 because of it, and played hurt the rest of the season. This was why Johnson struggled in 2007, not because he didn't pick up Martz's complex offensive scheme. "Calvin got hurt in that Philadelphia game and he never recovered the rest of the year," Martz said. "He was never 100 percent the rest of the year. In fact, there were games he really struggled to play and maybe shouldn't have played, I don't know. It was important to him to play and you've got to give him credit. He fought through it pretty good."
Analysis: Johnson exceeded expectations for the first two weeks of the NFL season, scoring in consecutive game. After Week 2, however, Johnson was mostly unreliable and wildly inconsistent, hitting the proverbial rookie wall by December -- and now we know why. In total, Johnson had 48 catches for 756 yards and four touchdowns with four rushes for 52 yards including a nifty 32-yard touchdown run in Week 7 vs. Green Bay. Johnson displayed his excellent vertical, speed and size as a rookie, but dropped his fair share of passes and didn't play with aggression over the course of the season. Fantasy owners who sunk a fifth-round pick into him bought the hype in 2007 and got left holding the bag. Thing is, he'll still have plenty of hype heading into 2008 and might be a fifth-round pick in '08 drafts, too. That's a smidge too high -- figure Johnson to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR next season, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 7.
News: Rookie WR Calvin Johnson exceeded expectations for the first two weeks of the NFL season, scoring in consecutive game. After Week 2, however, Johnson was mostly unreliable and wildly inconsistent, hitting the proverbial rookie wall by December. In total, Johnson had 48 catches for 756 yards and four touchdowns with four rushes for 52 yards including a nifty 32-yard touchdown run in Week 7 vs. Green Bay.
Analysis: Johnson displayed his excellent vertical, speed and size as a rookie, but dropped his fair share of passes and didn't play with aggression over the course of the season. Fantasy owners who sunk a fifth-round pick into him bought the hype in 2007 and got left holding the bag. Thing is, he'll still have plenty of hype heading into 2008 and might be a fifth-round pick in '08 drafts, too. That's a smidge too high -- figure Johnson to be a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR next season, worth a pick between Rounds 6 and 7.
News: MLive.com is among those reporting Wednesday that the Lions fired offensive coordinator Mike Martz. Replacing him will be veteran offensive line coach Jim Colletto and receivers coach Kippy Brown as "co-coordinators." But no system will replace Martz's scheme -- the Lions will still lean on it, although it is expected to be simplified. Colletto and Brown are also expected to provide more balance and not abandon the running game like Martz did in several contests this season.
Analysis: The Lions should rid themselves of the "wanna-be Rams" label with this change and be more focused on being strong up front and moving the chains via the ground game. Expect Jon Kitna to throw a few fewer times per game, which will impact the overall numbers of his receivers, especially Roy Williams and Calvin Johnson. On the plus side, Kevin Jones (if healthy) should be a more regular option for the Lions.
News: Detroit WR Calvin Johnson had four catches for 54 yards Sunday at Green Bay in the season finale.
Analysis: Johnson has been productive but not spectacular in his rookie season. Look for him to come back strong in 2008 and consider him a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option heading into next year.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had two catches for 47 yards in Week 16 vs. Kansas City.
Analysis: Johnson was the victim of a very slow passing day by Jon Kitna, who threw for only 115 yards. In Week 17 at Green Bay, consider Johnson a No. 2 or 3 receiver for Fantasy purposes.
News:Calvin Johnson has been a boom-or-bust Fantasy option heading down the stretch. He finished November with touchdowns in two consecutive games, but hasn't scored in December. Moreover, his most productive catch in his last three games came on a Hail Mary on the last play of the first half last week. Johnson's been a bit of a disappointment, but things might change in Week 16 when the Chiefs come to Motown. This is the Lions' last home game of the year, and it's against a team that's given up five passing touchdowns in their last two contests.
Analysis: Johnson's potential still looms large, albeit one could make the case that he's hit the proverbial 'rookie wall.' Expect Johnson to post moderate yardage numbers with a shot at scoring in Week 16, which makes him a No. 3 Fantasy WR option this week.
News:Calvin Johnson had five catches for 102 yards at San Diego in Week 15. This included a 49-yard Hail Mary jump-ball reception that fell short of the end zone at the end of the first half.
Analysis: Johnson is nothing more than a top-end No. 3 Fantasy WR vs. Kansas City in Week 16, citing his explosive ability.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson ranks second among NFC rookies with 37 catches and 553 yards and will try to add to those stats in Week 15 when Detroit visits San Diego. He had five catches in Week 14, which was his second-best haul of the season.
Analysis: Johnson was targeted eight times in Week 14, which is five more than he saw in Week 13. With Roy Williams out again in Week 15, Johnson should get plenty of looks from Jon Kitna on Sunday. Consider him a low-end No. 3 or high-end No. 4 Fantasy WR in Week 15, depending on the size of your league.
News: Detroit rookie WR Calvin Johnson had five catches for 51 yards Sunday against Dallas.
Analysis: Johnson struggled in his first game as the No. 1 WR with Roy Williams (knee) out. Look for Johnson to try and perform better in Week 15 at San Diego. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: With Detroit's No. 1 WR, Roy Williams, likely out for the rest of the season, you can expect Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson to see some more time on the field, starting with Week 14 against the 11-1 Cowboys.
Analysis: The Cowboys pass defense isn't nearly as good as their run defense is, but they are very aggressive and will try to put Jon Kitna on his behind as many other teams have successfully done this season (he has been sacked a league-high 50 times). If Kitna can stay on his feet and get Johnson enough targets, he could be a very useful No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson only had one catch for 17 yards Sunday at Minnesota.
Analysis: Johnson disappeared from the Detroit offense against the Vikings. He is a low-end No. 2 Fantasy option and should bounce back in Week 14 against Dallas. If Roy Williams (knee) is hurt for an extended period of time, Johnson would have increased value.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson set career marks in catches (seven) and yards (83) in Week 12 and will go for his third straight game with a touchdown in Week 13 when the Lions play at Minnesota, who allow the most yards through the air in the NFL.
Analysis: Rookies WRs rarely put up two big games back-to-back, but Johnson is no regular rookie and has a great matchup in Week 13 against the Vikings. If Jon Kitna can have a decent game, then Johnson will get his targets and should be considered a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR in Week 13.
News:Calvin Johnson had 83 yards receiving and a score on seven catches on Thanksgiving Day against Green Bay in Week 12.
Analysis: Johnson led the team in receptions Thursday. His seven catches are by far his highest mark in any one game this year and the rookie will be a solid No. 2 or 3 Fantasy WR in most leagues for Week 13 at Minnesota.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson comes into Week 12's Thanksgiving Day game against the Packers after scoring his first receiving touchdown since Week 2 in a loss to the Giants in Week 10.
Analysis: The Packers pass defense ranks in the middle of the pack in yardage allowed, but gets a fair amount of interceptions and sacks. If Jon Kitna can find his early-season form again in Week 12, Johnson should be one of the biggest beneficiaries. Consider him a low-end No. 2 or high-end No. 3 Fantasy WR on Thanksgiving Day.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson caught three passes for 45 yards and a touchdown vs. the Giants in Week 11. Johnson out muscled a Giants cornerback for his score, a jump ball at the goal line.
Analysis: Nice to see Johnson score after a long drought (he ran for his last score in Week 7). The Lions host the Packers in a big NFC North tilt on Thanksgiving in Week 12, and Johnson should be good for at least 50 yards in the game. He'll be considered a No. 2 Fantasy WR against the Packers next week, but make sure you set him in your lineup if you'll use him before Thursday's game.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (back) is listed as probable for Week 11 vs. N.Y. Giants. He went through full practices all week. Johnson averaged 63 receiving yards in his first three games this season, but has averaged only 33.6 in the following five games.
Analysis: If Jon Kitna can stay on his feet in Week 11, which is questionable since the Giants lead the NFL in sacks, then Johnson might be able to reward his owners with a nice Fantasy outing. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Giants. The back injury has been nagging him for most of the season, but he is expected to play Sunday.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson averaged 63 receiving yards in his first three games this season, but has averaged only 33.6 in five games since then. Detroit hosts the Giants in Week 11, who lead the league in sacks.
Analysis: If Jon Kitna can stay on his feet in Week 11, which is questionable, then Johnson might be able to reward his owners with a nice Fantasy outing. Consider him a low-end No. 3 Fantasy WR against the Giants.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson caught three passes for 37 yards Week 10 at Arizona. He almost made a miraculous catch in the end zone at one point, but the ball grazed off his hands.
Analysis: Johnson hasn't had 60 yards receiving or a touchdown catch since Week 2. He's become the third-best -- or possibly the fourth-best -- receiving option on his own team. Think of him as a No. 3 Fantasy WR at best for Week 11 against the Giants.
News: Save for a 32-yard touchdown run, Lions WR Calvin Johnson hasn't scored in his last six contests (and seven games overall for the team). This week, Johnson & Co. play at Arizona, who rank seventh against the pass and have allowed just one 100-yard receiver in their last four games.
Analysis: Opposing teams have been having success running the ball on the Cardinals rather than passing, so that doesn't help Johnson much. The euphoria of his early-season success has worn off, and with it has gone the Lions' prolific pass offense. Think of Johnson as a No. 3 Fantasy WR who should start thanks to his huge upside, but won't always deliver. Remember this: Johnson doesn't even have a 100-yard game yet this season.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had three catches for 47 yards Sunday against Denver.
Analysis: Johnson should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 10 at Arizona.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday, but returned to a full routine Thursday as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. Denver. Lions coach Rod Marinelli said Monday that Johnson's back was OK after he left Week 8 against the Packers with soreness. "He'll be sore I think, but it wasn't as bad as the other one," Marinelli said, referring to Johnson's previous back injury. "Obviously (Calvin) is a tremendous talent and he's tough and he's very precise in what he's doing; very exact. He's making plays for us."
Analysis: Johnson has shown a lot of promise in his rookie season. He has 15 catches for 273 yards and two touchdowns. He is definitely a long-term Fantasy keeper and a No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into Week 9. He is expected to play barring any setbacks. Continue to track his progress.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 9 vs. Denver. Lions coach Rod Marinelli said Monday that Johnson's back was OK after he left Week 8 against the Packers with soreness. "He'll be sore I think, but it wasn't as bad as the other one," Marinelli said, referring to Johnson's previous back injury. "Obviously (Calvin) is a tremendous talent and he's tough and he's very precise in what he's doing; very exact. He's making plays for us."
Analysis: Johnson has shown a lot of promise in his rookie season. He has 15 catches for 273 yards and two touchdowns. He is definitely a long-term Fantasy keeper and a No. 2 Fantasy WR heading into Week 9. He is expected to play barring any setbacks. Continue to track his progress.
News: Lions coach Rod Marinelli said Monday that rookie WR Calvin Johnson's back was OK after he left the game with soreness. "He'll be sore I think, but it wasn't as bad as the other one," Marinelli said, referring to Johnson's previous back injury. "Obviously (Calvin) is a tremendous talent and he's tough and he's very precise in what he's doing; very exact. He's making plays for us."
Analysis: Johnson should be all right and be considered a good No. 2 Fantasy WR despite the matchup vs. Denver in Week 9.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson caught two passes for 44 yards in Week 8 at Chicago. He also rushed once on a reverse for a gain of 11 yards.
Analysis: Johnson had four catches in each of the first two weeks of the season, but has been good for about 1-2 catches in each game since. Expect similar production from him in Week 9 vs. Denver.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson had his first career rushing touchdown in Week 7. Johnson has also been doing great things when he catches the ball this season as 12 of his 13 receptions have resulted in a first down or a touchdown. The Lions play at Chicago in Week 8.
Analysis: Johnson only has 40 yards on three catches since returning from a lower back injury in Week 3, but he should find some opportunities in Week 8 against a very average Bears pass defense. Consider Johnson a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR for Sunday.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had one carry for 32 yards and a touchdown and caught two passes for 37 yards Sunday against Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Johnson managed to find the end zone on the ground, not through the air. He will look to get in the end zone Week 8 against Chicago. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions offensive coordinator Mike Martz had to defend his scheme and playcalling this week to the Detroit media. Martz will not change his ways and wants his players to continue running his offense. He's also confident rookie WR Calvin Johnson (back) should be at full strength in Week 7 vs. Tampa Bay. "Right up until now, he wasn't 100 percent so the things that he can do well we're a little less effective," Martz said. "It was hard for him to change direction. Right now, he's 100 percent."
Analysis: Johnson was a beast earlier this season when he was healthy and is expected to find the end zone and play big again in Week 7 now that he's not on the injury report and not missing practice. Start Johnson as a No. 2 Fantasy WR in all leagues.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson returned after missing Week 4 with a back injury. He only had one catch for 3 yards Sunday against Washington.
Analysis: Johnson will look to get back on track in Week 7 against Tampa Bay following the Lions bye in Week 6. He could probably use the week off to get back to 100 percent health.
News: As expected, Lions WR Calvin Johnson (back) is active for Week 5 at Washington. He should see significant playing time.
Analysis: Johnson remains a must-start No. 3 Fantasy WR. Start him in leagues that allow three receivers, or as a bye-week option in leagues that start two wideouts.
News: The Detroit News reports that despite being listed as questionable for Week 5 at Washington, rookie WR Calvin Johnson expects to play. He did practice on Friday and said his back felt much better than he did a week ago. "Definitely," Johnson said post-practice. "It's feeling pretty good."
Analysis: Johnson went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 at Washington. He missed his first game as a pro Week 4. Johnson should return for Detroit's Week 5 trip to Washington after missing Week 4 with a sore lower back. He is part of a high-powered passing offense in the Motor City and gets his fair share of balls thrown his way, despite the fact that QB Jon Kitna has so many weapons at his disposal. If he is good to go Sunday, consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR. Confirm his status with us an hour before kickoff on Sunday just to make sure.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday and Thursday as the team prepares for Week 5 at Washington. Johnson missed his first game as a pro Week 4. Johnson is second among NFC rookies with 189 receiving yards. All 10 of his receptions have resulted in either a first down or a touchdown.
Analysis: Johnson should return for Detroit's Week 5 trip to Washington after missing Week 4 with a sore lower back. He is part of a high-powered passing offense in the Motor City and gets his fair share of balls thrown his way, despite the fact that QB Jon Kitna has so many weapons at his disposal. If he is good to go Sunday, consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson (back) went through limited practice reps Wednesday as the team prepares for Week 5 at Washington. Johnson missed his first game as a pro Week 4. Johnson is second among NFC rookies with 189 receiving yards. All 10 of his receptions have resulted in either a first down or a touchdown.
Analysis: Johnson should return for Detroit's Week 5 trip to Washington after missing Week 4 with a sore lower back. He is part of a high-powered passing offense in the Motor City and gets his fair share of balls thrown his way, despite the fact that QB Jon Kitna has so many weapons at his disposal. If he is good to go Sunday, consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson is second among NFC rookies with 189 receiving yards. All 10 of his receptions have resulted in either a first down or a touchdown.
Analysis: Johnson should return for Detroit's Week 5 trip to Washington after missing Week 4 with a sore lower back. He is part of a high-powered passing offense in the Motor City and gets his fair share of balls thrown his way, despite the fact that QB Jon Kitna has so many weapons at his disposal. If he is good to go Sunday, consider him a solid No. 2 Fantasy WR.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson (back) is out for Week 4 vs. Chicago. Mike Furrey and Shaun McDonald are expected to handle his reps.
Analysis: Owners should sit Johnson this week and give consideration to both McDonald and Furrey as No. 3 Fantasy WRs. With the Bears' secondary banged up, they could post some nice numbers.
News: According to the Detroit Free Press, Lions coach Rod Marinelli thinks WR Calvin Johnson will be able to play Week 4 against Chicago, but he isn't sure. "I think Calvin's going to be fine," Marinelli said after practice Thursday. "But I don't want to tell you something, and then it's not true."
Analysis: Johnson heads into Week 4 as a No. 2 Fantasy WR. Continue to track his progress leading up to Sunday's game. He is listed as questionable, but did go through limited practice reps Friday after not practicing Wednesday and Thursday. Johnson has played in the team's first three games, totaling 189 yards and two touchdowns on 10 catches. Some doubted if Johnson would make an immediate impact in the NFL and he has made all those critics eat crow.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson (back) missed his second straight day of practice Thursday as the team prepares for Week 4 vs. Chicago. Johnson has played in the team's first three games, totaling 189 yards and two touchdowns on 10 catches.
Analysis: Some doubted if Johnson would make an immediate impact in the NFL and he has made all those critics eat crow. He heads into Week 4 as a No. 2 Fantasy WR. Continue to track his progress leading up to Sunday's game.
News: This week, the Lions host the Bears, and get them without CBs Nathan Vasher or Charles Tillman and with SS Adam Archuleta playing hurt. The Bears rank 14th against the pass and have allowed four passing touchdowns this season (two last week). Calvin Johnson (back) did not practice on Wednesday and is expected to be questionable, but he did do some running and the Lions hope to have him. Whether he plays or not, Shaun McDonald has been a valuable asset to the Lions and will be effective against that depleted Bears secondary.
Analysis: We view Johnson as a low-end No. 2 Fantasy WR if he plays and McDonald as a No. 3 option. Both should start -- if healthy -- in Week 4 Fantasy action.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson is unsure if a back injury will prevent his playing Sunday against the Bears. Johnson, the No. 2 pick in April's draft, was injured during Detroit's 56-21 loss to the Philadelphia Eagles when he landed hard on his back while catching a pass. "I went up for it and got spun around, and obviously, hit pretty hard," he said Monday. "I've never had anything like this, so I'm not sure what to expect. I'm getting treatment and we'll see what happens." Lions coach Rod Marinelli said tests only showed bad bruising, and Johnson was moving very gingerly at the team's practice facility on Monday. Marinelli said he considers Johnson day to day.
Analysis: Johnson has 10 catches for 189 yards and two touchdowns in three games. When he plays, he's worth starting as at least a No. 3 Fantasy WR. Monitor his status for the upcoming week, and don't let the matchup against the Bears scare you from using him (his back, though, is another story).
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson hurt his lower back on a long second-quarter reception in Week 3 against the Eagles and was taken to the locker room. Prior to getting hurt, he caught two catches for 58 yards.
Analysis: Johnson made a superb catch along the sideline but then landed very hard on his butt. He may have just bruised it or jarred his lower back, but whatever it was, it forced him into the locker room with just under 10 minutes to go in the first half. Stay tuned for further updates.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson will look to make it three touchdowns in three games on Sunday when the Lions play at Philadelphia in Week 3. Johnson leads all rookies in receiving yards with 131.
Analysis: Philadelphia have had one of the better pass defenses so far in 2007, allowing 197.5 yards a game through two weeks. Their run defense is also pretty solid, but the Lions' big guns are all in the passing game, so Johnson should get his looks in Week 3, where he is No. 2 WR.
News: Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson had another big afternoon Week 2 against Minnesota in only his second NFL game. He caught four passes for 61 yards, including a seven-yard touchdown pass from backup QB J.T. O'Sullivan in the third quarter. He also ran once for seven yards.
Analysis: Johnson started and will take the field plenty in offensive coordinator Mike Martz's system. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 3 at the Eagles.
News: The Vikings gave the Lions fits last season, holding Jon Kitna to 519 total yards and two passing TDs over two games. That could change with rookie Calvin Johnson playing. Johnson caught four balls for 70 yards with a touchdown in his NFL debut at Oakland.
Analysis: Expect Johnson to make a similar impact in this game, but perhaps without the touchdown. The one thing we do know is that the Lions will be forced to throw a lot here (they attempted 83 passes in two meetings last season). Consider Johnson a No. 2 Fantasy WR for Week 2.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson had a memorable rookie debut when he hauled in a 16-yard touchdown pass from Jon Kitna in the third quarter Week 1 against the Raiders. He finished the game with four receptions for 70 yards. His longest catch went for 26 yards.
Analysis: The Lions were hoping to protect Johnson a bit and not make him a go-to threat right away. Oh well. The former Georgia Tech product wasn't drafted second overall for no reason. Johnson will be on the field plenty in offensive coordinator Mike Martz's system. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR for Week 2 against the Vikings.
News:The Sports Xchange reports Lions WR Calvin Johnson will square off against Raiders CB Stanford Routt in a Week 1 matchup. Detroit is working Johnson into the mix gradually, trying not to force-feed him the entire offense or make him carry the passing game with Roy Williams and Mike Furrey on hand. Routt rehabbed a torn meniscus and returned for the final preseason game as the Raiders nickel back and has some rust. Detroit will get the opportunity a handful of times to have Johnson defended by Routt and should look to exploit it.
Analysis: Johnson will be on the field plenty in offensive coordinator Mike Martz's system. Consider Johnson a No. 3 Fantasy WR to start the year with the chance to see his value rise as the season goes on.
News: Calvin Johnson is going to be a monster this season. But two things are going against him this week. 1) He's not starting for some reason, which doesn't make much sense. 2) He's facing the No. 1 pass defense in the NFL from last year.
Analysis: Despite his unquestionable talent, suck it up and give Johnson a week to get his feet wet before putting him in your starting lineup.
News: According to the Detroit Free Press, it appears Lions WR Calvin Johnson, the No. 2 overall pick in this year's NFL Draft, will not be named a starter for this week's opener against Oakland. "At this point, no," coach Rod Marinelli said about Johnson starting. "He's not, yet. And so we're going to make these guys continue to work to earn. He's got everything we want. He's going to be something else."
Analysis: This is just a formality because Johnson will be on the field plenty in offensive coordinator Mike Martz's system. Consider Johnson a No. 3 Fantasy WR to start the year with the chance to see his value rise as the season goes on.
News: The Detroit Free Press reports that Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson will play in the first quarter in the club's preseason finale vs. Buffalo on Thursday. "He just needs the work," coach Rod Marinelli said. "He needs some snaps."
Analysis: This will be Johnson's last chance to get his legs fresh for the start of the season. Expectations are high for this rookie, and rightfully so considering his collegiate success and amazing ability. He should be a top pick in rookie drafts and a middle-round selection in all seasonal leagues. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR to start the year with the chance to see his value rise.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson, the second overall pick in April's draft, had three catches for 25 yards during Saturday's preseason game against the Colts.
Analysis: Figure that in between the end of the preseason and the early part of the regular season, Johnson will be strong. Remember, he's just a rookie, but he has a ton of potential. He should be a top pick in rookie drafts and a middle-round selection in all seasonal leagues. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR to start the year with the chance to see his value rise.
News: Lions offensive coordinator Mike Martz said Thursday that rookie WR Calvin Johnson has hit the proverbial "wall," meaning that his body is tired from all the work it's been taking on. "He hit the wall physically pretty good here last week," Martz said. "He's just really leg weary. He's starting to recover now pretty good. The information, I think, was starting to sound like Chinese to him for a while. But he'll sort through this. He's still got a ways to go now. When he doesn't have to think about things and when his legs are in shape, then he'll really progress quickly. I think that's what we're looking for at the end of the year."
Analysis: Martz added that this is typical and that the Lions were expecting this. Figure that in between the end of the preseason and the early part of the regular season, Johnson will be strong. Remember, he's just a rookie, but he has a ton of potential. He should be a top pick in rookie drafts and a middle-round selection in all seasonal leagues. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR to start the year with the chance to see his value rise.
News: Lions WR Calvin Johnson has pleased Mike Martz to date. "He's done a good job," Martz said in The Sports Xchange. "He's pretty close right now. For a guy with all the information swimming around in his head, he's really on top of everything. I'm kind of amazed at him, really. Every day he just amazes you. He just does. He's pretty special."
Analysis: Johnson should be a great Fantasy WR this year playing in the Lions' offense. It's a good sign that Martz is already pleased with his play. Remember, he's just a rookie, but he has a ton of potential. He should be a first-round pick in rookie drafts and a middle-round selection in all seasonal leagues. Consider him a No. 3 Fantasy WR to start the year with the chance to see his value rise.
News: At Cleveland in the second week of the preseason, Lions QB Jon Kitna never looked in rookie wide receiver Calvin Johnson's direction, and the No. 2 overall pick did not have a reception.
Analysis: Johnson caught two passes for 45 yards late in the first half of the club's first preseason game. Johnson has great size, amazing speed, fabulous hands and a brain for the game. Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 4 and 5 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle-round production. In keeper leagues, the fourth-to-fifth round projection is more reasonable, and he's going to be the top pick in rookie-only dynasty drafts. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
News: Calvin Johnson showed a glimpse of what's to come from the No. 2 pick in the NFL draft. Johnson caught two passes for 45 yards late in the first half of Thursday's preseason opener against the Bengals to set up a score.
Analysis: Each of Johnson's receptions went for 20-plus yards, as he was impressive in his preseason debut. Johnson should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR with a lot of upside. He plays in an explosive offense and he should see plenty of passes thrown his way.
News: In Thursday's preseason opener vs. Cincinnati, Lions rookie WR Calvin Johnson will play for most or all of one half, the Detroit Free Press reports.
Analysis: Johnson has great size, amazing speed, fabulous hands and a brain for the game. Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 5 and 6 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle-round production. In keeper leagues, the fifth-to-sixth round projection is more reasonable, and he's going to be the top pick in rookie-only dynasty drafts. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
News: WR Calvin Johnson will play as a professional for the first time when the Detroit Lions host the Cincinnati Bengals. The receiver said he won't count it as his debut. The Lions and their long-suffering fans are also fired up to see him play against Cincinnati on Thursday night, less than a week after the second pick in the draft ended an eight-day holdout. Jon Kitna may not get a chance to throw to Johnson much, if at all, in the exhibition opener. But Kitna has seen enough in practice to give the 6-foot-5, 239-pound Johnson rave reviews. "He's explosive and he's bigger than everybody on the field," Kitna said. "When he gets the ball in his hands, he has a different gear and he's electrifying."
Analysis: Johnson should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR with a lot of upside. He plays in an explosive offense and he should see plenty of passes thrown his way.
News: According to the Detroit Free Press, Lions WR Calvin Johnson, the second overall pick in this year's NFL draft, ran with the second team Monday. He missed eight days of practices before signing Friday and has to play a little catch-up. "He's got to get in shape," coach Rod Marinelli said. "The guy's just been here a couple of days. He's got to make sure he knows what he's doing all the time. He's still a young player. He's a young guy, and he's missed a lot."
Analysis: Expect Johnson to be fine for the start of the season. He should be considered a No. 3 Fantasy WR with a lot of upside, especially playing in this offense.
News: Rookie wide receiver Calvin Johnson signed a six-year deal with the Detroit Lions on Friday, ending the No. 2 overall pick's eight-day holdout. Johnson's signing was expected to allow him to get into camp for workouts Friday. Fellow wideout Roy Williams said a day earlier that "the rookie needs to get in here."
Analysis: Johnson's holdout shouldn't affect him too much -- he should be up to speed by the start of the regular season. Johnson has great size, amazing speed, fabulous hands and a brain for the game. Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 6 and 7 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle-round production. In keeper leagues, the fifth-to-sixth round projection is more reasonable, and he's going to be the top pick in rookie-only dynasty drafts. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
News: The Lions began training camp workouts Thursday without top pick Calvin Johnson. The wide receiver, chosen with the second overall pick in the draft, is the team's only rookie without a contract. Coach Rod Marinelli said nothing had changed between the team and Johnson, and he didn't seem concerned by Johnson's absence. "If that's a guy that has to be out, he should recover very quickly when he gets back," he said. "He did a great job in our offseason activities."
Analysis: Any missed time will push back Johnson's peak development with the club. If he only misses a few days, then it's not much of an issue. But if Johnson's holdout marches into mid-August, then his production should be expected to be slow out of the gate. Johnson has great size, amazing speed, fabulous hands and a brain for the game. Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 6 and 7 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle-round production. In keeper leagues, the fifth-to-sixth round projection is more reasonable, and he's going to be the top pick in rookie-only dynasty drafts. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
News: Several sources are reporting that the Lions and WR Calvin Johnson are far apart on contract negotiations, suggesting that Johnson won't be in training camp with the Lions when it starts on July 25.
Analysis: Significant news, since any missed time will push back Johnson's peak development with the club. If he only misses a few days, then it's not much of an issue. But if Johnson's holdout marches into mid-August, then his production should be expected to be slow out of the gate. Johnson has great size, amazing speed, fabulous hands and a brain for the game. Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 5 and 6 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle-round production. In keeper leagues, the fifth-to-sixth round projection is more reasonable, and he's going to be the top pick in rookie-only dynasty drafts. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
News: Jon Kitna got his first look at Calvin Johnson on Tuesday. He was very happy with what he saw. The Detroit Lions quarterback got to work with the draft's No. 2 pick at the first practice of a three-day minicamp. Kitna acknowledged he couldn't get too excited after one non-contact workout, but he was impressed. "He didn't break the huddle with the baffled look that most first-year guys have when they are trying to learn ... (offensive coordinator Mike) Martz's offense," Kitna said. "Heck, there are guys who have been working on it for a year that still don't always know what to do, but Calvin knew where he was supposed to be. He's obviously been doing his homework."
Analysis: Johnson is the total package: Great size, amazing speed, fabulous hands and a brain for the game to boot. That said, there won't be a Fantasy draft this season where he won't be picked too soon. Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 5 and 6 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle- to late-round type production. In keeper leagues, the fifth-to-sixth round projection is more reasonable, and he's going to be the top pick in rookie dynasty drafts. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
News: Jon Kitna got his first look at Calvin Johnson on Tuesday. He was very happy with what he saw. The Detroit Lions QB got to work with the draft's No. 2 pick at the first practice of a three-day minicamp. "He's certainly going to be used to the best of his ability this year," Kitna said. "He's going to give us a lot of options." Kitna acknowledged he couldn't get too excited after one non-contact workout, but he was impressed. "He didn't break the huddle with the baffled look that most first-year guys have when they are trying to learn ... (offensive coordinator Mike) Martz's offense," he said. "Heck, there are guys who have been working on it for a year that still don't always know what to do, but Calvin knew where he was supposed to be. He's obviously been doing his homework."
Analysis: Johnson joins a revamped receiving corps built around Roy Williams and Mike Furrey, who combined for 180 catches, 2,396 yards and 13 touchdowns last season. "This is exactly what you like to see as a quarterback," Kitna said. "I don't feel like I have to do everything by myself. I just have to get the ball into their hands." It should be a fun year in Detroit with all these weapons. Stay tuned.
News: With the second pick in the 2007 NFL Draft, the Lions selected Georgia Tech WR Calvin Johnson. It's the club's fourth wide receiver pick since 2003. Johnson was considered by many to be the best prospect in the draft thanks to his awesome size (6-foot-4, 237) and tremendous speed (4.35). In an interview on Sirius NFL Radio, Johnson was ecstatic to be going to Detroit and said he already had a glimpse of Mike Martz's offense and had a grasp on the offense.
Analysis: Johnson is expected to pair with Roy Williams (and Mike Furrey to an extent) to be the Lions receiving options. In anywhere from one to three years, they could overtake the Cardinals' pair to be the best receiving duo in the NFL. Johnson has the potential to be the best receiver in any given season in the NFL. As for 2007, our initial take is that Johnson's hype will see him get picked between Rounds 5 and 7 in seasonal drafts, but we think he'll deliver more of middle- to late-round type production. In keeper leagues, the fifth-to-seventh round projection is more likely. The sky is the limit for Johnson -- just remember he's a rookie receiver, and rookie receivers usually struggle.
