Calvin Johnson is a big wide receiver, and has all the tools to be one of the top players in the game at his position. I don’t think 2008 will be his breakout year, but he should turn in a solid performance if he can stay away from the injury bug.
Johnson disappointed many fantasy owners last year. He didn’t play terrible, but he was hurt for most of the year, playing through it. Not only that, but he has a very physical style of play, and the injury surely hampered his play. He should be healthy in the 2008 season, and could put up some solid numbers.
This will be his second year in the league. Year 3 tends to be a breakout year for wide receivers, and he plays on the Lions. The Lions will be much more run committed this season. Between that and the departure of offensive mastermind Martz, I expect the Lions will not be as pass happy as they have been in years past. Add in the fact that the Lions have a stable of capable wide receivers, and it does not set up perfectly for a huge breakout season.
With that being said, Johnson has serious natural talent, huge hands, and a very imposing presence on the field. If you have seen him play in person, you can appreciate his sheer size. He will get his fair share of catches, and should put in a solid performance this season. I would not count out a 1,000 yard campaign, with a handful of touchdowns.
Draft Johnson as a number two wide receiver. He has the potential to play his way into number one status, but not this year in my opinion. Johnson may be a hot sleeper type pick by many, and I don’t know if he will last into the middle rounds where I would feel comfortable taking him. I’m sure there will be someone in many leagues drafting Calvin to be a number one. He’ll be solid, but will disappoint if you count on him to carry the load.
