According to Dave Birkett of the Detroit Free-Press, the Detroit Lions still want to sign defensive end Cliff Avril to a long-term deal after placing the franchise tag on him just a few weeks ago.
“We’ve been very aggressive in trying to get him done,” said Lions president Tom Lewand. “We’ve had a lot of discussions with his agent. They’ve been very committed, but it is where it is now, and we’ve had other priorities. We’ll continue to pay mind of getting him extended, just like we will a number of other guys.”
The Lions and Avril’s representatives will have until July 15th to get a new deal done. Once they pass that date, Avril will be forced to play the entire 2012 season under the franchise tag, if and when he signs his tender.
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