Jim Caldwell says "miracle" if Calvin Johnson plays

Detroit Lions coach Jim Caldwell has suggested that "miracles can happen" when asked if star receiver Calvin Johnson will be available on Sunday.

Johnson has been struggling with an ankle injury in recent weeks and it caused him to miss week six and play a decoy role in two other games this season.

The Lions face the New Orleans Saints this week and Caldwell has conceded that he is prepared for the likelihood that Johnson misses out again, NFL.com reports.

Golden Tate has played a bigger role in Johnson's absence, while Joique Bell and Reggie Bush are also expected to be targets for quarterback Matthew Stafford.

Detroit travel to London next week to face the Atlanta Falcons, while that is followed by a bye week which Caldwell acknowledges will give Johnson additional time to recover.