Detroit Lions DE Cliff Avril still waiting for new deal, plans to stay with franchise - NFL News
Stalled contract negotiations have defined the 2012 offseason for Detroit Lions defensive end, Cliff Avril as he remains at an impasse with the Lions.
Avril was placed on the franchise tag at the start of the off-season but he is yet to sign the tender as he continues to wait for a new long-term deal from the franchise.
Disagreements with the Lions over his compensation remains the biggest obstacle over a new deal and the defensive end has held out of the voluntary work outs as he trains by himself.
Speaking to the Detroit Free Press on Sunday, he said that his contract negotiations are being closely looked at by his teammates who might be in a similar position next year as their current deals run out.
"I'm pretty sure guys are definitely viewing it and looking at it. I'm not sure if it's a good or bad signal. But I know guys that are coming into their final years of their contracts are probably viewing it and seeing what (the Lions are) going to do for
some of their players.”
Avril had one of his most productive seasons last year as he made 36 tackles and also had 11.0 sacks. He also forced six fumbles.
The defensive end’s performance last year helped the Lions end the 2011-12 regular season with a 10-6 record and finally end their playoff drought as they qualified for the postseason for the first time since 1999.
Adding further, Avril said that he wants to stay with the franchise for the long term and hopes that he gets a new contract soon.
"I'm trying to be the guy that sets a good example, I guess, in a sense of trying to be here and wanting to be here and hopefully they can keep me here."
It is now up to the Lions to speed up their contract negotiations and end the impasse between themselves and Avril.
Even if Avril does not receive a new deal this year he could still be called on by the team to play on the tag for one season.
Hopefully both parties can resolve the contract issue soon and Avril can help Detroit further improve on last season as they target the Super Bowl.
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