After sitting out the first eight days of training camp, the Detroit Lions' Cliff Avril has signed a one-year franchise tender and will report to the team Sunday.
Cliff Avril Signs Franchise Tender, Reports To Camp
Avril’s future as a Lion had been in question since last month, when the two sides failed to come to a deal by the July 16 deadline for franchise-tagged players to sign long-term extensions. But based on Avril’s latest tweet, he appears enthusiastic about re-joining the team.
"If ur heart is filled with faith then you can't fear"... back to work let's get it
— Cliff Avril (@cliffavril) August 5, 2012#WIN
As a result, Sunday’s signing means that Avril gets a one-year deal reportedly worth $10.6 million. If the Lions fail to sign the defensive end to a new deal for the 2013 season, they can franchise him once again to a slightly higher contract, or sever ties and let him test the free-agent market.
A third-round draft selection by the Lions in 2008, Avril led the team last season with 11 sacks and six forced fumbles.
If he improves those numbers, perhaps the Lions will have no choice but to think long term with Avril or watch as another team gives him an offer he can’t refuse.
For more on the Lions offseason, head over to the SB Nation blog Pride Of Detroit or visit SB Nation Detroit.
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