No deal in sight as deadline approaches: Detroit Lions DE Cliff Avril still hopeful - NFL News
With the July 16th deadline for agreeing a new long-term deal almost here, many players on the franchise tag are getting jitters regarding their contract situation.
One of those players who is still waiting on a new deal is Detroit Lions, defensive end, Cliff Avril. Currently on a franchise tag, Avril in recent interviews has been optimistic about his chances of getting a new deal although with the deadline approaching
he is starting to have doubts.
Avril’s tag is worth $ 10.6 million but the defensive end is yet to sign the tender and is waiting on a new deal.
However, if he does not receive an offer by Monday he will have little choice other than to sign the tender or sit out the regular season.
Speaking to the Detroit Free Press on Saturday, Avril said he is getting bad vibes about his contract situation.
He said:
“I’m hopeful, but I don’t know. I’m not getting a good vibe, let’s put it that way. But I’m hopeful.”
It is still uncertain whether Avril will show up for training camp with Detroit Lions if he does not receive a new deal.
He was a big part of the defensive roster during last season’s run to the playoffs and made 36 tackles. Avril also got 11 sacks to his name and has become an important part of Detroit’s defensive line-up.
The defensive end went on to add:
“I haven’t talked to my agent past that point, honestly. If we don’t get a deal done I’ll fly out to New York and figure something out from that point on.”
It does not seem that Detroit is interested much in ending Avril’s contract situation and feel a one-year deal is in the best interest of the franchise.
With just a day remaining to sign the new deal it is now or never for the defensive end.
Avril will just have to swallow his pride and sign the franchise tender since it does not seem like the player will be ready to miss out on games during the regular season.
It is time for both parties to make their move and end the ambiguity surrounding the player’s contract situation.
Tags: