Jason Hanson is a well known name in Detroit Lions history, recognized for his precise kicking and consistency on field goals. As a longtime Lions specialist, he played a central role in important games and helped define the franchise placekicking legacy.
His career with the Detroit Lions spanned more than a decade, earning him attention from fans, analysts, and fantasy football managers. This article looks at his performance trends, contract value, key records, and what he means for the franchise.
| Season | Team | Field Goals Made | Field Goals Attempted | Field Goal % |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2000 | Detroit Lions | 21 | 26 | 80.8 |
| 2001 | Detroit Lions | 26 | 33 | 78.8 |
| 2002 | Detroit Lions | 22 | 26 | 84.6 |
| 2003 | Detroit Lions | 22 | 26 | 84.6 |
| 2004 | Detroit Lions | 19 | 24 | 79.2 |
| 2005 | Detroit Lions | 29 | 32 | 90.6 |
Jason Hanson 2005 Season Highlights
In 2005, Jason Hanson delivered one of his strongest years with the Detroit Lions, setting a high field goal percentage and leading the team in scoring. His reliability was a key factor in close contests, and he regularly provided the margin needed for victory.
Fans still remember his long range attempts and clutch kicks during late game situations that kept the Lions competitive in the NFC North race.
Career Longevity and Consistency
Jason Hanson showed rare longevity for a specialist, remaining effective into his late 30s while maintaining precise mechanics. The Detroit Lions valued this consistency and allowed him to accumulate meaningful seasons of service.
- Recorded multiple seasons above 85% field goal accuracy.
- Held the franchise record for most points by a kicker for years.
- Continued to be a reliable practice squad and starter presence.
Contract Value and Team Impact
Team investment in Jason Hanson reflected his production and veteran leadership, balancing salary against the stability he offered special teams. The Detroit Lions structured his deals to reward consistency while managing roster flexibility. His presence influenced game planning and opponent preparation.
Jason Hanson Detroit Lions Legacy
Jason Hanson left a lasting imprint on the franchise, symbolizing steady excellence at a critical position. His work ethic, football intelligence, and community involvement made him a respected figure in Detroit and across the league.
Final Perspective on Jason Hanson Detroit Lions Career
- Recognized for outstanding field goal accuracy and longevity.
- Played a key role in several close Lions victories.
- Set franchise records that stood for years.
- Brought leadership and professionalism to special teams.
- Left a recognizable standard for future Lions kickers.
FAQ
Reader questions
How many career field goals did Jason Hanson make with the Detroit Lions?
Jason Hanson made over 200 field goals during his time with the Detroit Lions, ranking among the top kickers in franchise history for makes and points.
What was his best season with the Lions in terms of field goal percentage?
His best season came in 2005, when he connected on 29 of 32 attempts for a 90.6% field goal percentage.
Did Jason Hanson ever miss a crucial field goal in a playoff game for Detroit?
Throughout his Lions career, he maintained strong playoff performance, though specific high pressure misses are remembered more by context than frequency. Jason Hanson used a straight on approach with smooth mechanics, which helped him maintain accuracy over long distances and through different weather conditions in Detroit.