Lions defensive end Cliff Avril is enjoying a nice contract year.
The reigning NFC defensive player of the week has five sacks and three forced fumbles at the midway point of the season. The Detroit Free Press reports the Lions haven’t started serious contract talks with Avril.
“I’ve known [Team President] Tom [Lewand] for 20 years. We’ve done a lot of deals, and when they’re ready to do something with Cliff, we’re willing to listen,” agent Brian Mackler said.
Avril is going to make big money and we think he’s an exciting young pass rusher. With that said, we wonder if some teams will think about the “Ray Edwards factor” when looking at Avril.
Ndamukong Suh draws so much attention in the middle that his defensive ends are going to benefit. Kyle Vanden Bosch also requires double teams at times on the other side.
Edwards, like Avril, was a nice complementary piece to a good defensive line in Minnesota. Edwards got paid more like a lead dog in Atlanta, and so far has provided so-so results.