Lions' Kicker Hanson Retires Because of Heel Problems

There are times when you want to continue, but your body tells you it can no longer go on.

That's how Detroit Lions' kicker Jason Hanson felt after this last season. He pondered returning for one last season, but problems with his heels made it impossible for him to come back. He recently made the decision to retire after 21 years of playing in the NFL, all 21 seasons with the Lions. 
"It's time. I gave serious thought and consideration to playing in 2013. 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," said Hanson.
Hanson was the first player in NFL history to play 300 games with one team, finishing with 327. He set a record last season when he played his 21st season with the same franchise. Hanson was a record-making player: he had 52 field goals from at least 50 yards, is third in career scoring list at 2,150 points and third in field goals with 495. He is also the only player with 2,000 points for one team.
"Jason Hanson is the gold standard," said Lions president Tom Lewand. "He had an exemplary, Hall of Fame-worthy career on the field, and for those of us fortunate to know him well, he is an even better person, teammate, friend, husband, and father."
Hanson joins Jerry Rice, George Blanda, Morten Anderson, Gary Anderson, and Vinny Testaverde with 21 pro seasons. He joined the Lions in 1992, the year after they reached the NFC Championship game. He played in six postseason games, which were all losses, and went through the team's terrible 0-16 season in 2008. He was rewarded in 2011 when the Lions made the playoffs for the first time in a dozen years. 
Hanson was looking forward to the press conference, when he could "publicly thank so many people who have played such a big part in my career. You all helped me along this journey and I am forever grateful." 
And Lions fans everywhere are grateful for you, Jason Hanson. Wishing you the best in the future. 
Reference: ESPN
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