ALLEN PARK — Kicker Jason Hanson said he’s right on schedule following minor knee surgery two weeks ago. Of course he’s not sure what the exact schedule is, but he’s past the ice and elevation stage.

“It’s doesn’t seem like it’s going fast enough for me.  ... It feels like baby steps right now, especially with kickers kicking 50 yarders during the game. It’s like, ‘Oh, I have to get better,’’’ Hanson said following this afternoon’s practice.

His temporary replacement, Swayze Waters, kicked a 51-yard field goal in the 27-10 loss at Cleveland on Saturday.

About a week before the preseason opener in which Hanson kicked a 47-yard game-winning field goal, he said he felt some stiffness in his right knee, but wasn’t overly concerned because he could still kick.

“The decision was made that it was not something that would get better on its own. If they didn’t fix it, it would break down later in the season. I was a little surprised — it didn’t feel right — but I was kicking. ... It’s a real bummer, I didn’t expect it. It’s a step backward right after you feel you’re getting in great shape,’’ said Hanson who is in his 18th season with the Lions.

— PAULA PASCHE