We will soon start to see how important it will be getting DE Cliff Avril signed to a long-term deal, especially this upcoming season.
According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free Press, Avril has yet to sign his one-year tender meaning he will be unable to participate in the upcoming OTA’s since he isn’t officially a member of the team.
Avril though isn’t worried about missing this session since he believes last season’s lockout prepared him to be a self-starter…
“It’s still important, but last year was definitely a good way, for example, of how I can get it done just by working with myself a little bit,” Avril explained. “If it has to come down to it then I’ll be ready whenever I do get back with the team.”
Both sides have until July 16th to get a long-term deal done. If a deal isn’t made Avril’s only available option would be to sign the one-year tender or holdout which could hurt his stock if he’s gone for any long period of time.
Lions team president Tom Lewand said both sides are still working aggressively to get a deal done. Something to keep an eye on though concerning this deal from the Lions’ standpoint is whether or not they’ve set a draft day deadline for themselves. If the team hasn’t signed Avril to a long-term deal by the time their number comes up at 23 don’t be surprised if the team invests that pick in a defensive end pass rusher.
Ref: ESPN, Detroit Free Press
