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The Lions reportedly worked out former University of Michigan and New England Patriots punter Zoltan Mesko on Friday. (AP File Photo)

ALLEN PARK -- The Detroit Lions worked out former University of Michigan punter Zoltan Mesko on Friday, according to the Baltimore Sun.

It's unclear why the Lions would hold such a workout, considering they have one of the best young punters in the game. They used a fifth-round pick on Sam Martin last year, and he's been a hit from Day 1.

Martin is averaging 46.7 yards per punt this season, which ranks seventh in the league. He nets 41.0 yards per attempt, which is eighth.

He's pinned 21 punts inside the 20, which is fifth best in the league.

It's possible the Lions brought in Mesko simply for advance scouting, as they do at many positions in case players fall to injury. He also happens to be a former Patriot, playing there from 2010-2012.

The Lions travel to Foxboro on Sunday to take on the Patriots.

Mesko averaged 43.9 yards per punt in four professional seasons, the first three of which were spent in New England. He net 39.0.

He played seven games with the Steelers last year, but hasn't played in the league since.

Mesko was an All-American at Michigan in 2009, and still holds career and single-season records for punts and punting yardage.

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