Lawyer Milloy turned down an offer from the Detroit Lions Monday after the parties could not reach an agreement on contract terms. (David Stluka / Associated Press)

Veteran free agent safety Lawyer Milloy turned down an offer from the safety-needy Lions Monday after the parties could not agree on contract terms, according to a source with knowledge of the situation.

Milloy spent the morning in Detroit and passed a physical but the Lions would not offer a deal suitable to veteran’s liking. The Lions have been in communication with Milloy for weeks but they did not offer a contract until Monday. The former Patriots, Bills and Falcons safety has recently generated interest from other teams and could pursue those options.

Older veterans like Milloy, LB Derrick Brooks and RB Warrick Dunn could be called upon this week as teams work through injuries and prepare to shape their 53-man rosters, which have to be finalized this weekend.

As we have seen with these three established former Pro Bowlers, they will not simply take a job because it is offered. Dunn recently declined an offer from Seattle while waiting for the right situation. Veterans like Dunn have the option to retire, or they could stay in shape while waiting to be summoned at some point of the regular season.

– Steve Wyche