Jason Hanson

Kicker Jason Hanson worked out alone on the indoor practice field. Hanson, recovering from minor surgery on his right kicking leg.

The Lions medical staff is keeping close tabs on Hanson. But it depends on how his leg responds to increasing strain.

"I know they said I'm progressing well," Hanson said. "I feel good running and stuff. It doesn't feel 100%, but it's not hurting."

No timetable has been given for Hanson's return, but general manager Martin Mayhew said the plan is for the veteran to be ready by the opener Sept. 13 at New Orleans.

Hanson, 39, said he thought he would be ready to handle field-goal duties before he could handle the more stressful kickoffs.

"I would assume field goals are before kickoffs," he said. "Kickoffs will be very hard, will be the last thing that comes. To be effective, you have to slam it. But then again, if I can get my field goals right, it may not be a ton more to do kickoffs. We're kind of just entering the discovery phase, so we'll see what happens."