Calvin Johnson was back on center stage in Ford Field on Sunday at halftime of the Detroit Lions’ matchup with the Baltimore Ravens. Johnson received his Pro Football Hall of Fame ring in a ceremony during the intermission.
It was the first time Johnson had publicly appeared with the Lions ownership since his well-publicized dispute over advance bonus money the team forced him to repay when he retired unexpectedly after the 2015 season. And the fans in Ford Field clearly sided with Johnson over the Ford family.
The fan reaction was raucous for Johnson, who graciously thanked the fans for the support. Owner Sheila Ford Hamp could barely be heard over the boos. The crowd then erupted in applause and loud cheering for Johnson as he accepted the honor.