Players, fans react to news of Calvin Johnson's retirement

Perhaps you've heard, but Calvin Johnson announced his retirement on Tuesday. The news exploded just before lunchtime on the east coast, and just like when the rumors initially emerged back in January, people reacted. Below are some of the most notable responses to Megatron's retirement.

• From our former leader here at Pride of Detroit, Sean Yuille:

  #ThankYouMegatron pic.twitter.com/Cnr3M6Yjkk

  — Sean Yuille (@SeanYuille) March 8, 2016

  
  
• Nate Burleson, a former teammate and a close friend of Calvin, had some extremely thoughtful words for Megatron:
  
  

  When I signed with the Detroit Lions I met a young man by the name of Calvin Johnson Jr...a humble superstar who spoke with his actions not his words. After watching him during our first practice together I knew I was going to be witness to something very special. In the 4 years I was there I saw him evolve from really good to great to unstoppable. I can only describe it like a Super Hero realizing his Super Powers one day at a time until he realized he was there to save the city. CJ is a man of few words but I knew by how much he loved Detroit and by his work ethic I realized he embraced the responsibility of bringing pride to Michigan which HE DID time & time again. It was a pleasure to watch, honor to play with and joy to kick it wit you bro. You gave the game everything you had in every game you played and out worked every dollar you made. You are one of few shinning examples of how I will not only teach my kids to approach sports but how to approach life. I Never told you in person but this is how I saw you when we played together... ☆You stood like a Giant amongst Boys, toiled like a Peasant amongst Kings and Blessed us with your presence like a God amongst Men☆ You may be Megatron to the masses but you just CJ to me. Enjoy retirement homie! Love, Nate B #LionBloodForever

  A photo posted by Nate Burleson (@nateburleson) on Mar 8, 2016 at 8:20am PST

  
  
• Eric Ebron shared how Johnson made him better:
  
  

  I Can't Thank You Enough For Not Only Being My Mentor, But For Being My Big Brother. Helping Me Turn Into The Man I Am Today. I Couldn't Explain In Words How Thankful I Am. Love You Big Bro #Megatron #HOF

  A photo posted by Eric Ebron (@ericebron) on Mar 8, 2016 at 8:51am PST

  
  
• Barry Sanders, who can certainly relate to Calvin, showed his support for the Lions receiver.

  An amazing and rare talent both on and off the field, and I feel lucky to have been able to see him play. https://t.co/eSIk8iWr3M

  — Barry Sanders (@BarrySanders) March 8, 2016

  
  
• Even the Lions' punter wanted to express his feelings on Megatron's career:

  When an honor to play with this guy. A professional, mentor, and friend. The GOAT, you'll be missed @megatron. pic.twitter.com/BGlpyIEUoP

  — Sam (@SamMartin_6) March 8, 2016

  
  
• Dan Orlovksy, who has always been supportive of his teammates on social media, had some glowing words for Calvin:

  I'm so happy for Calvin, to go out on his terms is exactly what he is; rare. Somehow I got to play 5 years with him and what he accomplished

  — Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) March 8, 2016

  As a player speaks for itself. He had HOF talent with an undrafted FA work-ethic. It was amazing to watch on a daily basis. But what will

  — Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) March 8, 2016

  Always stand out to me is who he was as a man. As a father for 3 boys, if they grow to be anything close to the man he is I will know I did

  — Dan Orlovsky (@danorlovsky7) March 8, 2016

  
  
• Even the Detroit Pistons showed up to give their congratulations:

  Thank you @calvinjohnsonjr
  
  Enjoy retirement. #DetroitProud pic.twitter.com/ZK9GE6cxWB

  — Detroit Pistons (@DetroitPistons) March 8, 2016

  
  
• The Detroit Tigers wished Johnson well too:

  #ThankYouMegatron
  
  Enjoy retirement @calvinjohnsonjr! pic.twitter.com/GI4AaMyHcV

  — Detroit Tigers (@tigers) March 8, 2016

  
  

Thank you, Calvin. Your career has touched millions of adoring fans.