It's been nearly two decades since Calvin Johnson, the electrifying wide receiver out of Georgia Tech, heard his name called as the No. 2 overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. Next week, the Detroit Lions legend will return to the draft stage, this time to announce a pick for the team that he once dominated for.

Johnson is set to be on hand in Pittsburgh for the 2026 NFL Draft, where he'll announce a live selection during Rounds 2 or 3. With the Lions currently without a third-round pick, it's widely expected that "Megatron" will step to the podium to reveal Detroit's choice at pick No. 50 in the second round.

This moment is about more than just a name on a card; it's a powerful symbol of reconciliation. Johnson's relationship with the Lions franchise became strained following his abrupt retirement in 2016, marred by a contractual dispute over bonus money. For years, one of the most physically gifted players in NFL history remained at a distance from the team he helped define.

In recent seasons, that frost has thawed significantly. Johnson's presence around the organization has grown, culminating in his 2024 induction into the "Pride of the Lions" at Ford Field—an honor reserved for the franchise's very best. His upcoming draft appearance is the latest and perhaps most public step in mending those fences, offering Lions fans a full-circle moment as a beloved icon helps shape the team's future.