Golden Tate: Calvin Johnson's body 'just isn't holding up'

Calvin Johnson is contemplating retirement just nine years into an incredible NFL career.

Though Johnson choosing to walk away from the game would come as a surprise to many, fellow Detroit Lions receiver Golden Tate understands that health issues are playing a role in Johnson's decision-making process.

"It's weird," Tate said, according to Kyle Meinke of mlive.com. "When the rumors came out he was going to leave Detroit, I didn't know it was because of health reasons. I thought it might have been a money thing, or his contract was up, is what I initially thought. Because he showed up to work as the same Calvin that we've always known. Worked hard, busted his tail when he's out there, makes some incredible catches.

"But his body just isn't holding up. With his body type, and how he plays the game, he plays at a high level all the time for a bunch of years."

Tate, a receiver who attacks his opponent with quickness rather than the kind of physicality Johnson has long put to use, says he often wakes up in a significant amount of pain the day after a game.

"I know there are times when I've gotten out of bed after a Sunday game and I almost fall on the floor because I'm in so much pain," he said. "And I'm a guy who can kind of manipulate tacklers, and not get the best of them most of the time."

Johnson reportedly told a select few members of the organization after the 2015 season that he indeed intends to retire.

The Lions have yet to receive an official decision from the star wideout, however, and team president Rod Wood recently said Johnson will be given the necessary time to weigh his options.