ALLEN PARK, Mich. — The Detroit Lions released kicker Havard Rugland, cornerback Dequan Menzie and wide receiver Terrance Austin on Tuesday.
A year ago, Rugland was working at a child protective services facility in Norway. The 28-year-old Norwegian dubbed "Kickalicious" became an Internet sensation after producing a YouTube video highlighted by quirky trick shots.
He had tryouts with the New York Jets, Cleveland Browns and Detroit, and the Lions were the only team to offer him a contract. He was signed April 11 to give kicker David Akers some competition, and Rugland made each of his three field goals during the preseason.
"Exposure means a lot in this league," Akers said. "If he can catch on to gain experience, the sky’s the limit."
The Lions claimed Menzie off waivers in May from Kansas City, who drafted him last year in the fifth round. Austin was signed as a free agent in January after he was released by Washington.
The cuts were made Tuesday.