The Lions will have a new kicker in 2014.
G.M. Martin Mayhew said Friday morning that the club would not re-sign David Akers, Kyle Meinke of MLive.com and other club beat writers reported.
Akers, 39, connected on 19-of-24 field goals in 2013. He forced seven touchbacks on 14 kickoffs.
The Lions signed kickers John Potter and Giorgio Tavecchio to reserve/future contracts at season’s end.
Akers isn’t the only prospective free agent whom the Lions will not bring back. Mayhew also indicated the club would not re-sign defensive lineman Israel Idonije, safety John Wendling, linebacker Rocky McIntosh and offensive lineman Dylan Gandy, MLive.com reported. Wendling and McIntosh were both key special teams players for Detroit in 2013, with Gandy and Idonije filling reserve roles.