Lions approached about trading Calvin Johnson's rights
9:50 AM ET
Adam SchefterESPN Senior Writer
Over the past week, two teams have spoken to the Detroit Lions about potentially trading for Calvin Johnson's rights before Tuesday's NFL trade deadline, league sources told ESPN.
Calvin Johnson holds the NFL record for receiving yards in a season and is Detroit's franchise leader in almost every major receiving category. Adam Bettcher/Getty Images
Figuring they had nothing to lose, the Lions told teams to reach out to Johnson to gauge his reaction, but so far it has been non-committal at best, diminishing any hopes for a deal, sources said.
Johnson, 32, has not played since the 2015 season and would have to be willing to play for any team that traded for his rights. There remains doubt that Johnson even would be willing to return at this time.
But at least two other teams have been curious enough to at least inquire within the past week. If any team decides it wants to add a pricey receiver for a second-half run, Detroit would be willing to listen.
The Lions declined comment, as did Johnson's representative, Bus Cook.
