Former Bengals star Chad Johnson gives NFL wide receivers an ultimatum to show up for his 'Wideout Workshop' retreat

The joke is obvious, but a clever one nonetheless. Johnson has developed a partnership with EA Sports as the public's "Madden Ratings Adjustor."

An empty threat from anyone else, but a funny one from the man himself. 

At least six wideouts are confirmed to be attending the retreat in South Florida next week including another former No. 85 for Cincinnati in Tee Higgins.

Tyreek Hill of the Miami Dolphins, Tank Dell of the Houston Texans, and Courtland Sutton of the Denver Broncos are among other confirmed attendees. 

Johnson maybe the Madden Ratings guy now, but he was arguably the game's best route-runner during his playing days. His footwork, releases, and hand usage made him so lethal to cover, and he still keeps active nearly 15 years since his NFL career ended. 

For any receiver—professional or not—looking to improve their route running, Johnson's the guy to learn from. He's giving everyone a chance for three days next week. 

Higgins will be back in Cincinnati for Bengals training camp two weeks later when veterans report on July 22. Odds are Johnson will show up sometime during camp as well like he usually does.