Boldin opts for No. 80 instead of Johnson's 81

Throughout Anquan Boldin’s 13-year career, there’s been one constant — No. 81.

The veteran receiver has donned the same jersey number in his seven years with the Arizona Cardinals, three years with the Baltimore Ravens and past three seasons with the San Francisco 49ers.

And following Calvin Johnson’s retirement this offseason, the Lions newest addition had the option to pick No. 81. Instead, Boldin opted for No. 80, the Lions announced Friday morning.

Undrafted rookie receiver Quinshad Davis had been wearing No. 80 in the offseason but has apparently elected to give it up to Boldin.

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Johnson wore No. 81 throughout his nine-year career with the Lions before retiring in March at the age of 30 as the franchise’s all-time leader in career receptions (731), receiving yards (11,619) and receiving touchdowns (83). He also holds several NFL records, including most receiving yards in a single season (1,964 in 2012) and consecutive 100-yard games (eight).

Boldin, 35, led the 49ers in receiving yards (789) and receptions (69) last year and is one of 13 receivers in league history to surpass 1,000 career receptions. He officially signed a one-year deal worth a reported $2.75 million with the Lions Thursday.

jhawkins@detroitnews.com

Twitter @jamesbhawkins