ALLEN PARK -- Calvin Johnson topped Jerry Rice's single-season receiving yardage mark last season, yet the Detroit Lions scuffled to a 4-12 finish.

This season, running back Reggie Bush has taken much of the weight off Johnson's shoulders and the Lions are off to a 3-1 start.

Johnson accounted for more than 30 percent of Detroit's total offense last season, but through four games this year, he's responsible for just more than 19 percent.

In addition to Bush's emergence, quarterback Matthew Stafford is connecting more frequently with his other receiving options.

"I think he is feeling good about getting the ball in other playmakers' hands," offensive coordinator Scott Linehan said. "It's hard to say you rely too much on Calvin. I don't think that's possible. Give Calvin any opportunity he can get. It's been good to see (Stafford) go to some other places and affect the game that way."

Before going down with an off-the-field injury, Nate Burleson actually led the Lions with 19 receptions. Johnson has reclaimed the team lead, but four other players, including Bush, have at least 10 catches.

Johnson is a big supporter of Stafford getting his teammates involved, particularly early in games.

"I think it gets everybody in the groove," Johnson said. "When we get everybody in the groove early in the game, or just at least in the first half, (in the) second half guys will be flowing with confidence and ready when their number is called."

Johnson was put in a difficult position last season after Burleson and Ryan Broyles suffered season-ending injuries and Titus Young was essentially kicked off the team. Because of the depth issues, Linehan said he had to move Johnson around a lot at the end of last season.

Nearly 50 percent of Johnson's targets came over the final six games. The Lions lost each of those contests.

This year, the team doesn't feel the need to move Johnson around so much. That's meant a reduction in opportunities, but the star receiver will happily trade stats for wins.

"It definitely makes it much easier to come to work," Johnson said. "Guys come to work with a smile on their and talking about the big plays that were made, being able to watch film and not to have a nasty taste in your mouth about it."

And if you're thinking the Lions aren't using Johnson enough, just know the overwhelming majority of Stafford's passes are still going his direction.

Last season, 27.7 percent of Stafford's throws went Johnson's direction. That's down this year, but only slightly. Johnson has been the intended target on 25.6 percent of his quarterback's attempts through the first four games.

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