As the Lions’ kicking game continues to struggle, the team is at least checking on the availability of replacements. But for now, they’re sticking with David Akers.
Havard Rugland, the Norwegian YouTube sensation known as Kickalicious, was among multiple kickers who worked out for the Lions today. Tim Twentyman of the team’s website reports, however, that the Lions were just taking a look at some of the kickers available and aren’t signing anyone.
Still, the fact that the Lions brought in Rugland — who kicked very well for them in the preseason — indicates that they’re not completely confident in Akers. And really, why should they be? Only three kickers in the NFL have a lower field goal percentage than Akers, who turns 39 in a week and just doesn’t appear to be as good a kicker as he once was.
The Lions could also use an upgrade on kickoffs, which punter Sam Martin handles: On Thanksgiving Martin twice booted kickoffs out of bounds. If Kickalicious can kick the ball long and straight, he’d seem to be a player the Lions should consider signing. If they don’t, and if Akers misses a crucial field goal with a playoff game on the line, the Lions will be kicking themselves.
