Detroit Lions: Could DE Cliff Avril Hold out If He Gets Franchised?

Teams can put the franchise tag on an unrestricted free agent starting today, though they can do so up until March 5. Rumor has it that the Detroit Lions want to do so with defensive end Cliff Avril, but he may not take kindly to the move.

Avril said on Saturday that he may hold out if the Lions franchise him, stating that he desires the "security and longevity" of a long-term deal.

Avril tried to get a deal from Detroit last year but instead received a one-year tender worth just over $2.6 million, which he feels was practically the same thing as being tagged.

The franchise tag for a defensive end is projected to be worth about $10.6 million, but Avril is likely looking for $12 million per season and a guarantee from the Lions that they want him around for years to come.

Though a holdout is just one of a number of options Avril is considering, don't expect him to be happy if the team puts the tag on him. He was unsatisfied with the outcome of last year's negotiations, and a second year in a row without a deal could see him skipping OTAs and camp.

Avril had the most forced fumbles of any defensive lineman in 2011, and he also notched 11 sacks. Losing him to free agency is not a reality the Lions are interested in facing. But if they cannot reach an agreement on a multi-year contract, it's quite possible that they won't be seeing Avril around before the season starts.

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