Stating the obvious, which is refreshing when one considers most athletes aren’t bold enough to do so, the Detroit Free Press reports Lions defensive end Cliff Avril told SiriusXM NFL Radio’s Adam Schein and Rich Gannon that he won’t accept a hometown discount when he becomes an unrestricted free agent next month.
"I just want to be paid as one of the guys that's helping the team grow," Avril said. "I want to be there. We have a young D-line. But I know it's a business, and you only hit free agency once or twice in your career, so you definitely have to take advantage of it."
Asked whether he would give the Lions a hometown discount, Avril didn't hedge.
"There's no such thing as a hometown discount in the NFL," he said. "Once you can't play anymore, they're going to let you go, so you definitely have to strike gold when you can.
"That said, if they and another team present the same thing, I'd definitely stay with the Lions."
The article states Avril mentions he’s been told he’d be a good fit in the New England Patriots’ hybrid 3-4, 4-3 defensive scheme. While that’s true, I believe Avril would fit in just as nicely in the San Diego Chargers’ 3-4 defense now coordinated by John Pagano, a former linebackers coach.
Hopefully Chargers general manager A.J. Smith will make a serious run at Avril once free agency begins next month. Signing Avril to man the outside linebacker spot on the other side of Shaun Phillips will ease some of the pressure to reach for a pass-rusher in April’s draft.
Classic Videos
For this edition of the blog I’m posting a short clip from NFL Films' America’s Game: Missing Rings episode of the 1981 San Diego Chargers. The clip showcases Dan Fouts’ boldness and toughness as the field general, ultimately inspiring a nickname I will not repeat.
Dan Fouts MFIC
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