Grading the Detroit Lions offensive starters

CALVIN JOHNSON.

Dec 7, 2014; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) is announced before the game against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Tim Fuller-USA TODAY Sports

HEALTH. It has to be a little concerning for Lions fans to see Calvin Johnson deal with some injuries in the last 2 seasons. This year Calvin missed time with a knee injury and his presence was missed.

Grade: 3

Big Play: Come on!! is there really any reason to explain What Calvin can do? He is Mr. Big Play. Calvin still makes you say “did he just do that?” all the time.

Grade: 5

Dependability: Calvin is called on a lot to make a play when it’s absolutely necessary and 9 out of 10 times he’s there to do it. The Lions depend on Calvin to change the opponent’s game plan every week and he delivers. When he is healthy of course.

Grade: 4

Smart Play: Calvin is not a Dez Bryant type receiver. It’s catch the ball first and if there is time to look pretty while doing it then hey why not? There are occasions where Calvin tries to catch balls that he cannot and at times that has led to tip balls and turnovers. Calvin more often than not is a smart player and it shows through on the field.

Grade: 4

Impact: It isn’t hard to measure the impact the Calvin Johnson has on the Lions. Opposing teams have a day or two of practice just dedicated to stopping him. Even after missing 3 games he still managed to put up over 1,000 receiving yards. Calvin’s impact wins games and that the most important stat in the book.

Grade: 5

Overall Grade: 21