View full sizeThe Detroit Lions had until 4 p.m. today to sign defensive end Cliff Avril to a long-term deal, but negotiations are officially over. Negotiations between Detroit Lions defensive end Cliff Avril and the team to work out a long-term deal have officially broken off.
Detroit placed the franchise tag on Avril earlier this offseason, and had until 4 p.m. today to sign him to a long-term deal. The Lions could have given him a new contract, although president Tom Lewand and general manager Martin Mayhew have maintained for months they were not opposed to Avril playing this season on a one-year deal worth $10.6 million. Both sides continued to talk for months, but could never reach an agreement.
"After extensive discussions with Cliff and his representative, we were unable to reach an agreement on a new contract by today's 4 p.m. deadline," Lions president Tom Lewand said. "While we are disappointed that we could not execute a long-term deal, we do look forward to having Cliff with us this season under the terms of the Franchise tender."
Avril is not alone.
So far, Kansas City receiver Dewayne Bowe, San Francisco safety Dashon Goldson and Avril have not signed their tenders because they wanted a long-term deal. Six players, including New England's Wes Welker and Atlanta Falcons cornerback Brent Grimes, have already signed their franchise tenders this offseason.
Though unlikely, Detroit can use its franchise tag on Avril two more times.
Meanwhile, Chicago Bears running back Matt Forte signed four-year, $32 million ($15 million guaranteed) today, while Baltimore running back Ray Rice also signed.
Avril had 11 sacks, six forced fumbles and 29 tackles, plus he scored two touchdowns, for Detroit last season. His sack total was tied for 11th in the NFL, while Avril was ranked second in forced fumbles. Avril is only the sixth player in team history to record 10 or more sacks, one fumble recovery and an interception return for a touchdown in one season.