Skip to main content

No change to rule that overturned Lions WR Johnson's TD

The NFL's competition committee will not establish a "Calvin Johnson rule," a league source confirmed to NFL Network insider Jason La Canfora Monday.

Newsday first reported the committee's decision not to change the rule, which states that a player must maintain possession of the ball throughout a catch.

The rule came under fire this past season in Week 1 when Detroit Lions wide receiver Calvin Johnson's apparent game-winning touchdown catch against the Chicago Bears was overturned when Johnson lost control of the ball after seemingly making a leaping catch and falling to the ground.

Johnson clearly had control of the ball as he fell to the ground, established both feet as well as his left hand inbounds, but lost control of the ball when his right hand -- holding the ball -- hit the ground.

On the play, the nearest referee held his arms up to indicate a touchdown, but after conferring with the other officials the pass was ruled incomplete. After review, the call was upheld as an incomplete pass.