Calvin Johnson: The Detroit Lions' One Great Gift from Matt Millen

During Matt Millen's eight-year tenure, the Detroit Lions went one place. 

South.

From a 9-7 team that just missed the playoffs in 2000, the Lions managed to fall so hard that they lost every single game during the 2008 season.

After nearly a decade of abuse, Matt Millen left Detroit with one great gift of consolation.

Calvin Johnson.

Johnson, among the league's best wide receivers, is a true freak of nature. He runs a 4.35 second 40-yard dash even though he weighs about 235 pounds.

He proved himself to be everything a Lions fan could hope for in 2008, with over 1,300 receiving yards and 12 touchdowns.

Last season, Johnson still almost reached 1,000 receiving yards despite nagging injury problems throughout the season. Not to mention, it was the first year rookie Matt Stafford was throwing the ball to him, until he also succumbed to injury.

I wouldn't say that Johnson, or any elite player in NFL history for that matter, can make up for the general failure of Millen's nine first-round picks, 11 second-round picks, and eight third-round picks.

Even so, there is no denying Johnson was by far Millen's best selection.

Now entering his fourth season, Johnson has verified his abilities and the Lions finally seem to be trying to put the puzzle pieces together around him.

The team knows that the more talent it adds to the offense, the better Calvin Johnson will do. 

Drafting Matt Stafford and tight end Brandon Pettigrew was a great start last season.

As they adjust to the NFL over the next few seasons, things should start looking up for Johnson's offensive unit.

This offseason the signing wide receiver Nate Burleson was another step forward, as well as trading for guard Rob Sims. These moves will help stabilize one of the weakest positions on the team.

It was noted that Johnson was showing signs of frustration last season. He had every right to be upset about the way the last few seasons had gone. A player of his caliber deserves to be on a great team.

If Detroit doesn't show signs of improvement, they could face the prospect of losing Johnson. As much as fans would love for him to stay in Detroit, he deserves better.

Hopefully, the Lions can give him better.