2012 NFL Free Agents: Should the New England Patriots Target Cliff Avril?

Year after year, we always take a look at the New England Patriots come up with the notion that they need an elite pass-rusher.

Ever since the Patriots parted ways with Richard Seymour, witnessed Mike Vrabel age before our eyes as well as failing on Adalius Thomas, the Patriots haven't had a dominant pass-rusher.

2011 was a different story for the Patriots, as they reeled in a diamond in the rough by the name of Andre Carter. As Carter tallied up 10 sacks in 14 games this season for New England, his season ended in Week 15 against the Denver Broncos and was unable to participate in their Super Bowl run. 

Carter is set to become a free agent on March 13. It's unclear if the soon-to-be 33-year-old will be back in 2012 with the Patriots.

If Bill Belichick chooses to roll the dice and spend a few extra dollars this offseason, rather than targeting the Houston Texans Mario Williams, New England could settle with Cliff Avril.

The 25-year-old was the Detroit Lions' third-round pick back in 2008 and has steadily increased his sack total each and every season and is considered to be one of the league's top-tier pass-rushers. 

Don't get me wrong, the Patriots will have to spend some money on Avril but not nearly as much as whoever decides to sign Williams.

In 16 games this season for the Lions, Avril compiled a stellar 11 sacks while recording 36 tackles and forcing an impressive six fumbles.

There's no doubt that Avril is a playmaker and would certainly improve New England's 31st rank defense from a year ago. 

Some would figure that the Lions would do everything in their power to retain the stud 25-year-old, but according to the Detroit Free Press, the Lions don't have too much wiggle room under the salary. 

As for Detroit using the franchise tag on Avril, the Detroit Free Press has also reported that Avril would have absolutely no interest in being franchised. 

If Belichick is willing to spend some money, then Avril would be a nice asset in a young and promising defense heading into 2012—a season where the AFC champions will look to make yet another run at a Super Bowl. 

Be sure to check out Tony Santorsa's blog: PatriotsPlus