On the night of his induction into the Pride of the Lions, Hall of Fame receiver Calvin Johnson also received quite the honor from Michigan Gov. Gretchen Whitmer.
Whitmer declared Sept. 30 “Megatron Day” in Michigan.
“One of the greatest wide receivers of all time and still rocking the coolest nickname in sports history, Megatron brought magic to the field every game,” Whitmer said on X.
The Lions are celebrating Johnson’s induction into their ring of honor during halftime of their homecoming game Monday night against the Seahawks.
Johnson, who turned 39 one day prior, is the Lions’ all-time leader in catches, receiving yards and receiving touchdowns.
In a formal statement, Whitmer added that on top of Johnson’s on-field achievements, he “shows up for the community,” noting his youth football camp and his non-profit that provides scholarships for students and support for small businesses.
“I’ve lived nearly half of my life in Michigan and consider this home,” Johnson said in a statement. “And playing for the fans of the Detroit Lions was one of the best things about being in the NFL. Entering the Pride of the Lions on Megatron Day alongside my family, friends, and former teammates is an incredible honor that I’ll always cherish.”