Calvin Johnson doesn’t want NFL in his pocket, so no more dunks

Nov 28, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) dunks the football over the goal post after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter of a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports
Nov 28, 2013; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson (81) dunks the football over the goal post after scoring a touchdown during the third quarter of a NFL football game against the Green Bay Packers on Thanksgiving at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports /
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There are a handful of NFL players known for dunking on the goal post after they score a touchdown and Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson is one of them.

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Of course, the league has decided to ban the dunking celebration and while some aren’t exactly abiding by the rules, Calvin Johnson says his dunking days are over. So why is that? Does he not want to get the Detroit Lions called for a penalty? That might be part of it, but more importantly Calvin Johnson doesn’t want NFL commissioner Roger Goodell digging in his pockets.

"“I’m not letting Goodell get in my pockets,” Johnson said, referring to Jimmy Graham, a tight end for New Orleans who dunked twice in a preseason game last week, being fined by the NFL and commissioner Roger Goodell."

While many have frowned upon the league for the new rule, it does actually make sense considering dunking on the goal post does alter the playing field and also can result in a delay during the game. On the flip side, it’s just another ‘celebration’ the NFL has taken away, though this one actually has a legit reason.

So while Calvin Johnson has decided to avoid dunking this season and beyond, with as many times as he will find the end zone, I’m pretty sure he’ll be able to come up with a worthwhile replacement.

I have a feeling most will follow his lead as well since few will want to not only have to pay the fine, but get an earful from their coaching staff.