The Facts: Following up on the ongoing story. ... The Lions have so far shied away from giving Johnson a deadline to make his decision on retirement, but with free agency fast approaching, the team is pushing to get an answer soon. The Lions, in conversations with the representatives of various players across the league, have told people that they hope to know in the next 24 hours what Johnson's plans are for 2016.

Diehards Line: Johnson confirmed in January that he was considering retiring from the NFL after nine seasons, but he has not yet spoken publicly about his decision and according to Free Press staffer Dave Birkett, Megatron has not responded to multiple email requests for comment. It's unclear what the Lions will do if they don't get an answer from Johnson by the time free agency officially opens at 4 p.m. Wednesday. For now, teams are allowed only to negotiate with players' representatives. ... Johnson, who turns 31 in September, is a six-time Pro Bowler and one of the NFL's all-time great receivers, but his production has slipped in recent years because of health. Still, he led the Lions with 1,214 yards receiving and nine touchdowns last year, and his retirement would leave a major void on offense. And all involved will apparently know if that's the case in short order. ... Stay tuned.