Martin Mayhew has said that Nick Fairley needs to play more consistently if he is to remain at the Detroit Lions.

The defensive tackle signed a four-year contract as a rookie in 2011, with an option for a fifth season, which the NFC North side must decide whether to take up by May.

The general manager told the team's website: "He could play more consistently. I mean, he's got to mature a little bit as a professional, I think.

"I think that'd be a big step in him playing more consistently. I wouldn't say his weight is too high."

The 26-year-old made 35 tackles, six sacks and two forced fumbles in 2013.