Detroit Lions Preseason Questions: Where Do They Stand Now?

The Retirement of Jason Hanson

Dec. 30, 2012; Detroit, MI, USA; Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson (4) kicks a field goal in the first half against the Chicago Bears at Ford Field. Mandatory Credit: Andrew Weber-USA TODAY Sports

Kickers have the potential to be the most-hated person in an entire city with just one errant kick. Jason Hanson played in Detroit for 20 years and this season had his number retired while receiving a standing ovation from those in attendance at Ford Field during this year’s season opener against Minnesota.

The idea of someone else kicking extra points and field goals in a Lions jersey was unfathomable for many, until a man by the name of Havard Rugland showed up in Detroit. “Kickalicious”, as he was affectionately called, brought excitement to a position that is often overlooked and undervalued.

Detroit also brought in veteran David Akers. Though a fun story, Rugland was there to give Akers competition, not the other way around. In the end, Akers rightfully won the job and has handled it beautifully, missing just one field goal, while two have been blocked by no fault of his own.