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Following up on the ongoing story. ... According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, Calvin Johnson told his family and a close circle of friends before last season that 2015 would be his final year in the NFL, and he delivered the same message to coach Jim Caldwell the day after the regular season ended.

Caldwell told Johnson not to rush his decision -- to take his time, sources told Schefter. Out of respect to Caldwell, Johnson agreed to do just that, according to sources.

The Lions have not given up hope that Johnson could change his mind, but one person who knows Johnson well told Schefter, "He's pretty content with his decision."

Schefter went on to advise readers that after nine seasons in the NFL, Johnson's body is beaten down. The five-time Pro Bowler has battled lingering ankle injuries and general body soreness to the point that it makes it difficult for him to return for another season, during which time he would turn 31 years old.

Johnson's body has been so sore, and his conviction so strong, that he shared his decision to retire after the 2015 season with only two teammates -- quarterback Matthew Stafford and linebacker Stephen Tulloch -- with the request that they keep it confidential, according to Schefter's sources.

Stafford and Tulloch honored the request, and the rest of the Lions organization did not learn of Johnson's plans to retire until after this season, according to sources. At that time, the Lions issued a statement from Johnson that said, "Like many players at this stage of their career, I am currently evaluating options for my future. I would expect to have a decision regarding this matter in the not-too-distant future."

The Lions, in turn, said, "We obviously have profound respect for Calvin and certainly understand and appreciate his decision to give proper thought and consideration to his football future."

Meanwhile, before newly-hired general manager Bob Quinn signs any free agents, he'd like to know Johnson's plans.

Quinn told reporters earlier this week that he hasn't talked to Johnson but hopes to hear whether or not Megatron plans to retire before the start of free agency on March 9, according to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press.

As Profootballtalk.com's Mike Florio notes, if Johnson waits until the start of free agency, the Lions will have to account for his $24 million cap number, which means that the Lions possibly would cut him.

If he does walk away, Johnson will owe the Lions $3.2 million in previously paid signing bonus money.

If he was released, that would absolve him of any repayment obligation. It also would allow him to continue his career with a team other than the Lions if he so desires.

But as Schefter suggests, unless Johnson has the change of heart that the Lions still are hoping for but many are not expecting, one of the greatest players in franchise history is likely to walk away from the game.

I'll continue to follow up as needed.