Detroit Lions DE Cliff Avril wants to stick with franchise - NFL News
The Detroit Lions’ will do anything to keep defensive end and local hero Cliff Avril from reaching free agency and want him to sign a new deal with them.
Avril, on the other hand has also expressed the desire to remain with the Lions who he joined in 2008 as a third round draft pick but there is a catch.
He will not give the Lions any discount.
Speaking in a radio interview on Friday, the 25-year-old said that he wants to remain with Detroit but he also wants to be paid his worth and is not ready to budge on the issue of wages.
"There's no such thing as a hometown discount in the NFL, once you can't play anymore, they're going to let you go, so you definitely have to strike gold when you can. That said, if they and another team present the same thing, I'd definitely stay with the
Lions."
Adding further, he hoped that Detroit do not try to franchise tag him and agree on a long term contract.
"I honestly don't know if they're going to franchise me or make a deal. I want a deal, obviously."
Lions, general manager Martin Mayhew had already previously stated that he does not wish to tag Avril and they want the defensive end in Detroit for the long term.
Wages though will become a sticking point in negotiations as the Lions struggle to stay within their salary cap while also making funds available to keep star wide receiver Calvin Johnson at the franchise.
Avril, though does not plan on compromising on the wages and wants payment that is on par with his efforts on the field.
“I just want to be paid as one of the guys that's helping the team grow, I want to be there. But I know it's a business, and you only hit free agency once or twice in your career.”
Avril had a brilliant 2011-12 season as Detroit made its first 5-0 regular season start since 1956 and qualified for the playoffs after a drought of almost 12 years.
The 25-year-old made 36 tackles this season and had 11.0 sacks.
Detroit, qualified for the playoffs after a 10-6 regular season and faced New Orleans Saints in the playoff wildcard round which they lost 45-28.
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