You knew it was going to happen eventually, but it's still no less a shock to hear the news. Detroit Lions kicker Jason Hanson, who would be 43 when training camp begins, retired Thursday after 21 seasons.
"I gave serious thought and consideration to playing in 2013," Hanson said in a statement released by the Lions. "While the determination and willpower are still there, the wear and tear on my body, especially the issues I had and still have with my heel have convinced me that it's time to retire."
Hanson holds the record for most games played with a single team, passing 49ers wide receiver Jerry Rice in his 304th game and finishing his career with 327 total games played. He's ranks third on the NFL's career scoring list and holds the top spot in the Lions' record book for every statistical catagory for placekickers.
When Hanson, a second round draft pick out of Washington State, arrived in Detroit in 1991 he replaced the veteran Eddie Murray, who had been the Lions' kicker since 1980.
Anyone want to guess who preceeded and Murray and Hanson? Don't. You'll hurt yourself. It was Benny Ricardo.
Hanson plans a retirement news conference next Tuesday at the Lions' Allen Park practice facility.
