Lions Calvin Johnson is reportedly Planning to Retire

Detroit Lions Calvin Johnson is reportedly leaning toward retirement, multiple media outlets have reported.

According to the sources, the star wide receiver told head coach Jim Caldwell about his plans of ending his nine-year football career one day after the regular season finished. Johnson had reportedly already talked to his family, close friends and two teammates - quarterback Matthew Stafford and linebacker Stephen Tulloch - about retiring.

ESPN cited sources who said that Caldwell told Johnson to take some time to think about his choice before finalizing it. Johnson reportedly agreed out of respect for his coach.

People close with Johnson, who will be turning 31, said that the player is "pretty content with his decision."

The Lions, on the other hand, are hoping that he might change his mind.

After the season ended, the Lions had issued a statement on Johnson's behalf. The statement read, "Like many players at this stage of their career, I am currently evaluating options for my future. I would expect to have a decision regarding this matter in the not-too-distant future."

The Lions had also issued a statement, saying that they have "profound respect for Calvin and certainly understand and appreciate his decision to give proper thought and consideration to his football future."

Since news of Johnson's retirement plans surfaced this past Sunday, the Lions reiterated that they stood by their previous statement.

Johnson's teammate, Lions defensive end Ezekiel Ansah, said after the Pro Bowl that he would love it if Johnson returned.

"I would love to see him back, but it's his decision to make," Ansah said. "He's a great guy who has a lot of respect for the game. ... He's a professional, and he's somebody that I look up to. Whatever decision he's gonna make, I'm gonna support him, and I'm glad to call him my teammate."

Some of Johnson's other teammates have already taken to social media to honor him and his contribution to the sport.

During this past season, Johnson put up great numbers despite dealing with body soreness. He completed 88 receptions for 1,214 yards and nine touchdowns.

In his career, which was spent only with the Lions, the five-time Pro Bowler has made 731 catches for 11,619 yards and 83 touchdowns.