News: New Seahawks defensive end Cliff Avril hurt his foot four weeks ago according to coach Pete Carroll and is sidelined in OTAs because of a plantar fascia issue. "It hurts," said Carroll per the Tacoma News Tribune. "You could ask him about it. The plantar fascia thing is a real uncomfortable thing. You just have to wait it out. It’s something that you can come back from. It’s not a problem. But you just have to wait it out. He’s real anxious to go, and he’s doing very well in his rehab. And he runs some this week for the first time. So it will take another couple weeks at least."
Analysis: Avril has the chance to be a good contributor playing in Seattle as part of a very talented defensive line but he has to get healthy first. Luckily he has some time. Assuming he's healthy he remains a good No. 2 Fantasy option worth a mid- to late-round pick.
News: Free agent defensive end Cliff Avril and the Seahawks reached agreement on a contract Wednesday that addresses one of Seattle's big offseason desires to improve the pass rush along the defensive line.
Analysis: Avril immediately helps Seattle's most glaring offseason need in adding depth along the defensive line. Seattle is unsure of the status of defensive end Chris Clemons due to a knee injury suffered against Washington in the playoffs so Avril's ability to step in should be a good thing for the Seahawks. Since he's expected to stay as a defensive end for the Seahawks he remains a good No. 2 Fantasy option worth a mid- to late-round pick.
News: ProFootballTalk.com reports multiple teams that run a 3-4 defensive scheme are interested in signing Cliff Avril this spring and converting him into an outside linebacker pass rusher. Avril played outside in college. The Cleveland Plain Dealer reported the Browns are one such team interested in Avril.
Analysis: While a move to OLB would be good for Avril most likely, it would be bad for his Fantasy prospects. Most pass rushing outside linebackers don't put up enough numbers to warrant use in Fantasy play week in and week out. Nearly every elite linebacker in Fantasy is a tackle machine, which Avril hasn't been or would be. If this move happens, Avril would be worth taking as a late-round pick as a linebacker. If he somehow stays as a defensive end then he'd retain value as a No. 2 option.
News: Free agent defensive lineman Cliff Avril is looking for a big payday, according to MLive.com. Avril, who turned down a three-year offer last season and was slapped with the franchise tag, told Sirius XM NFL Radio that he is worth more than $30 million. "Last year, going into it, I felt like with all the deals made around me, that wasn't significant enough for what they were trying to offer me," Avril said. "I didn't think that was the right deal to take, so I just played the (franchise) tag. Here we are again. Hopefully, we can figure something out and get my worth."
Analysis: Avril finished the season with 35 tackles, two forced fumbles and 9.5 sacks, which was two sacks shy of surpassing his career-high mark set the previous season. The 26-year-old has racked up at least eight sacks in each of the last three seasons and is still in his prime. According to the report, he is looking to earn a deal similar to Mario Williams' six-year contract worth up to $100 million with incentives. It also appears that Avril is not willing to take a paycut to stay in Detroit, so we'll continue to monitor his status throughout free agency. He should be viewed as a solid Fantasy defensive lineman worth a mid-round pick in all IDP formats come Draft Day.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril was silent for the second game in a row Saturday against the Falcons in Week 16. Avril finished with just one tackle in consecutive games, in a 31-18 loss.
Analysis: Avril had a solid run of sacks a few weeks ago, but he has none over the last two games. If Avril is not getting to the quarterback, he is tough to rely on in Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Detroit defensive lineman Cliff Avril enjoyed a decent performance as he picked up another sack during Sunday's contest against the Packers in Week 14. Avril took down Aaron Rodgers in the fourth quarter. He registered just two tackles, both of which was for a loss of yards, in a 27-20 defeat.
Analysis: Avril has picked up five sacks in his last four games and has been on a roll as of late. He is viewed as decent source for sacks and has 10.5 on the year to go along with 32 tackles. Fantasy owners should consider him as a solid starting option in most IDP formats in Week 15 at Arizona.
News: Detroit defensive lineman Cliff Avril, who came into the Week 13 game against Indianapolis on Sunday dealing with a back injury, played and did well. He had two tackles and a sack.
Analysis: This was Avril's fourth sack in his past three games, and we expect him to continue to play well. Consider him a solid starting option in most IDP formats in Week 14 at Green Bay.
News: Detroit defensive lineman Cliff Avril is active for the Week 13 game against Indianapolis Sunday. Avril was on the injury report due to a back issue that was considered minor.
Analysis: Avril has been banged up this season but has been active for every game thus far for the Lions. He has three sacks in his last two games and also forced a fumble last week against Houston. Having a solid year, Avril can be active in deeper Fantasy IDP formats for Week 13.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril was a limited participant in practice for the second day in a row Wednesday and is on track to face the Texans in Week 12. Avril, who is dealing with a knee injury, is listed as probable for Thursday's contest.
Analysis: Avril made his return to the lineup last week after being knocked out of the game with a concussion in Week 10. It seems as if this is another one of his many injury issues the 26-year-old has been dealing with. That said, this shouldn't slow him down, especially since he practiced most of the week. Avril has 5.5 sacks in 10 games, so he will need to pick up his production to reach the 11-sack pace he had a year ago. At this point, he should be considered more of a low-end Fantasy IDP option.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril got to the quarterback for the first time in four games Sunday against the Packers. Avril brought Aaron Rodgers down once, in a 24-20 loss. He added a pair of tackles. He was able to play in the game despite suffering a concussion the week before.
Analysis: Avril has 5.5 sacks in 10 games, so he will need to pick up his production to reach the 11-sack pace he had a year ago. At this point, he should be considered more of a low-end Fantasy IDP option.
News: Despite being forced to leave last week’s game with a concussion, Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril was active and in uniform for Week 11 against the Packers. He was a limited participant in practice, but was listed as probable for the game.
Analysis: Avril was cleared to play during the week, so this does not come as much of a surprise. His production has slipped, as he has been held without a sack since Week 7, so consider Avril a low-end Fantasy IDP options now that he is active.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril (back, concussion) was a limited participant in practice for the second day in a row on Friday leading up to Week 11. Avril, who was knocked out of last week's game against the Vikings with a concussion, but is listed as probable for Sunday.
Analysis: It seems as if Avril has been cleared to play and is on track to get back on the field without missing any games. He has not picked up a sack since Week 7 and should b viewed as a low-end IDP Fantasy option heading into Week 11.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril left in the third quarter of Week 10 at Minnesota with a concussion and was not able to return. Avril was shaken up on the Vikings' first possession of the second half and underwent concussion tests in the locker room. He finished with two solo tackles before the early exit in Detroit's 34-24 loss.
Analysis: Avril was listed as questionable on the injury report with a back injury, but was able to start the game. However, he failed to make it through unscathed and could now miss more playing time. Fantasy owners should monitor his status throughout the practice week as he could be forced to the sidelines for the Lions' key Week 11 matchup against Green Bay.
News: Detroit defensive lineman Cliff Avril is active for Week 10 at Minnesota despite dealing with a lingering back issue. Avril was listed as questionable on the team's injury report after only being able to practice in a limited capacity last Friday.
Analysis: Avril has flopped back and forth between questionable and probable on the injury report this season, but the main thing is that he has not missed any playing time. The 26-year-old has posted 4.5 sacks this season and is a viable option in deeper Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Detroit defensive lineman Cliff Avril was listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 10 at Minnesota as a result of a lingering back issue. Avril, who was considered probable last week, returned to practice in a limited capacity Friday after being absent the previous two days.
Analysis: Avril has flopped back and forth between questionable and probable on the injury report this season, but the main thing is that he has not missed any playing time. The 26-year-old has posted 4.5 sacks this season and is a viable option in deeper Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril, who was limited in practice by a back injury leading up to the game, is active for Week 9 at Jacksonville. He was listed as probable on Friday's injury report.
Analysis: Avril has been a consistent source of tackles this season, recording 4 1/2 in seven games. As with most defensive lineman, he's not a great source of tackles, but he's plenty usable in Fantasy IDP leagues that reward sacks.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril (back) is probable to play in the Week 9 game at Jacksonville Sunday. Avril only managed one tackle last week and was limited in his participation in practice Friday.
Analysis: Avril hopes to get on the field Sunday and comes into Week 9 with 19 tackles and 4 1/2 sacks over seven games. Avril remains a viable Fantasy IDP option in most leagues as long as he is healthy.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril had one tackle in Sunday's victory over the Seahawks. He now has 19 on the season.
Analysis: Avril's value comes from his sacks, and he has 4 1/2 so far this year. In his sixth season, Avril recorded 11 sacks in 2011, after having 8 1/2 in 2010. This sack-less game snapped a three-game streak in which Avril recorded at leas a half of a sack. He is a viable start in most formats.
News: Detroit defensive end Cliff Avril was listed as questionable on the team's injury report for Week 8 against Seattle as he attempts to work past a lingering back injury.
Analysis: Avril has been dealing with this injury since Week 4 but has not missed a game yet this season. He is coming off a solid game with four tackles and two sacks against the Bears in Week 7 and will look to build on that. Because Avril doesn't rack up as many tackles, he is considered as a low-end Fantasy option in most IDP formats, if active.
News: Lions defensive end Cliff Avril (back) is active for the Week 7 game on Monday night against the Bears. Avril was listed as probable on the official injury report heading into the game but his status was never seriously in doubt.
Analysis: Avril is coming off his best game of the season Week 6 with four solo tackles and two sacks. He had a career-high 11 sacks in 2011 and is a rising pass rusher with 3 1/2 sacks in five games this year. It's just that Avril doesn't get many tackles, so he remains a low-end Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: Lions defensive end Cliff Avril (back) is healthy for Week 7 on Monday night against the Bears. Avril was listed as probable on the official injury report Saturday after practicing in full.
Analysis: Avril finally had a game worth talking about Week 6 with four solo tackles and two sacks. He had a career-high 11 sacks in 2011 and is a rising pass rusher with 3 1/2 sacks in five games this year. It's just that Avril doesn't get many tackles, so he remains a low-end Fantasy option in IDP formats.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril totaled four solo tackles and two sacks Week 6 at Philadelphia. Avril now has 3 1/2 sacks in five games.
Analysis: Avril finally had a game worth talking about Week 6. He had a career-high 11 sacks in 2011 and is a rising pass rusher. It's just that Avril doesn't get many tackles, so he remains a low-end Fantasy option until he starts having more performances like Week 6.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril (back) is active Week 6 at Philadelphia after being listed as questionable on the injury report.
Analysis: Avril hurt his back Week 4, but the Lions had a bye Week 5, so he had plenty of time to rest up. Unfortunately, Avril has just 1 1/2 sacks through four games and has lost a lot of Fantasy appeal because of his slow start. He is just a low-end Fantasy IDP option.
News: An MRI on Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril's ailing back revealed no significant damage, a source told CBSSports.com NFL Insider Jason La Canfora on Monday. Avril, who was slapped with the franchise tag during the offseason, left Week 4 against Minnesota with a back injury.
Analysis: Avril has stumbled at the start of the season and recorded just half a sack in Detroit's three games since the season opener. He has also added 10 tackles, but his presence is rushing the passer. Fantasy owners should monitor his status in practice as he makes for a viable IDP option.
News: Lions defensive end Cliff Avril left the team's Week 4 game vs. Minnesota with what the team called a back injury. But it did not look like a back injury. Instead, Avril's left leg buckled while untouched as he rushed after Christian Ponder in the fourth quarter.
Analysis: We'll await word on Avril's status along with more information on his injury. If sidelined, the Lions might struggle to generate a pass rush. Avril and the Lions are on bye in Week 5 and play at Philly in Week 6.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril, who recorded a sack in Week 1, went without for the second straight game Week 3 at Tennessee. He did have five tackles, though, including three solo.
Analysis: At least Avril didn't bury you by going without a tackle this time, though you generally shouldn't rely on him for those. He's normally a decent source of sacks, so if those are especially valuable in your Fantasy IDP league, he remains an adequate option.
News: The 49ers managed to get in Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril’s head Sunday, and he responded by posting a completely empty stat line in a 27-19 loss. 49ers tight end Vernon Davis did accuse Avril of gouging his eyes during the game, though he did not indicate that it was purposeful. Niners offensive tackle Anthony Davis also accused Avril of taking his frustration out with some extra-curricular activity during the game. "He tried to [remove my helmet] a lot," Davis told the Sacramento Bee. "He hates me. It's so funny. We don't even know each other -- it burns him up."
Analysis: Avril garners most of his Fantasy value from the ability to rush the passer and force fumbles, so he needs to produce on a consistent basis to be worth relying on. He had a sack in Week 1 and finished last season with 11, so continue to consider him a decent Fantasy IDP option moving forward.
News: Detroit defensive lineman Cliff Avril collected just two tackles during the Lions' 27-23 win over St. Louis in Week 1. Despite the lowly tackle total, Avril managed to record a hit on quarterback Sam Bradford twice during the game, but no sacks.
Analysis: Avril created a stir in the offseason when he launched a brief holdout before signing his franchise tender in early August. He doesn't appear to be behind in his progression and will attempt to reach double-digits in sacks for the second straight year. Keep him active in most Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Lions defensive end Cliff Avril reported to the team's training camp Sunday, ending his holdout. He has presumably signed his one-year franchise tender valued at approximately $10 million and will begin practicing immediately. "Ready to get this thing rolling," he said. "I wanted to spend time with my son for his first birthday, and that was Friday. Then I took a day off to myself -- and back at it."
Analysis: It never seemed like Avril would hold out for a long period of time. He has a chance to play in the team's first preseason game later this week. Avril doesn't have the tackle totals to excite Fantasy owners but does enough of everything else to be serviceable. We like him as a No. 2 DL in leagues that reward tackles and a No. 1 DL in leagues that do not.
News: For the first time since his holdout began, Lions players have started to balk at answering questions about defensive end Cliff Avril. Although some players won't discuss Avril's absence, the Lions' organization continues to take the high road over his decision to skip part of training camp. “I don't know [when Avril will report],” GM Martin Mayhew said. “It's up to Cliff. I look forward to seeing him when he gets here. I know that when he gets here he's going to be in great condition and be ready to go -- and he's excited about how he's going to play this year so I'm looking forward to seeing him.”
Analysis: The sooner Avril rejoins the team, the better Fantasy owners will feel about using him as a high-end Fantasy DL. He risks not being in shape for the season if he misses much of camp. Avril doesn't have the tackle totals to excite Fantasy owners but does enough of everything else to be serviceable. We like him as a No. 2 DL in leagues that reward tackles and a No. 1 DL in leagues that do not.
News: The Lions announced Monday they could not agree to terms with defensive end Cliff Avril on a long-term deal. He will play on the one-year franchise tender and be eligible for free agency in 2013. Avril expressed disappointment to the Lions' official team website but called it a business deal. He then hinted that he might not report on-time for training camp. "I probably won't be there the first day," he said. "We'll just go from there. I just have to sit down and see what we think is right and we’ll go from there."
Analysis: Avril could be in position to have a big season and get the long-term deal he's looking for next spring, but he risks not being in shape for the season if he misses much of camp. Avril doesn't have the tackle totals to excite Fantasy owners but does enough of everything else to be serviceable. We like him as a No. 2 DL in leagues that reward tackles and a No. 1 DL in leagues that do not.
News: CBS Sports NFL Insider Jason La Canfora reports the Lions and franchised defensive end Cliff Avril have talked but no deal is imminent. The issue, according to La Canfora, is "some philosophical differences about how he fits into their pay scale. It would take a major swing in those talks to foresee a deal as it stands right now."
Analysis: Avril doesn't have the tackle totals to excite Fantasy owners but does enough of everything else to be serviceable. We like him as a No. 2 DL in leagues that reward tackles and a No. 1 DL in leagues that do not.
News:Cliff Avril was given the franchise tender by the Lions on Monday, all but ensuring he'll be back with the team in 2012. He's coming off a career-best year where he had 11 sacks, four passes defensed, his first career interception returned for a touchdown and six forced fumbles along with 36 total tackles.
Analysis: Avril doesn't have the tackle totals to excite Fantasy owners but does enough of everything else to be serviceable. We like him as a No. 2 DL in leagues that reward tackles and a No. 1 DL in leagues that do not.
News: Free-agent defensive end Cliff Avril says he has no idea whether the Lions will apply the franchise tag to him. He hopes they don't. Avril said Friday that he wants to sign a long-term contract to stay in Detroit. The Lions can use the franchise tag on Avril to keep him off the market with a one-year deal for the average of the five highest-paid defensive ends as soon as Monday or as late as March 5. Free agency begins March 13. Avril's agent, Brian Mackler, said talks are moving "very slowly" with the Lions. Team president Tom Lewand declined comment Friday and general manager Martin Mayhew has said he doesn't plan to use the franchise tag.
Analysis: Avril proved to be a great sack artist in 2011, and he should play well again with the Lions in 2012 assuming he stays in Detroit. Keep an eye on what happens with Avril, but he is worth a mid-round pick in all IDP leagues on Draft Day.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril is active for Week 17 against Green Bay despite a nagging back injury. He was listed as probable on the team's injury report for Sunday's game.
Analysis: Avril's interception last Saturday was the first of his career as he's mainly been an effective pass rusher this season. He has recorded a career-high 11 sacks and could add to that total against the Packers' replacements on Sunday. Keep him active in most Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril is listed as probable for Week 17 against Green Bay after dealing with a back injury in practice. Avril, who returned an interception for a touchdown last week against San Diego, is expected to play on Sunday.
Analysis: Avril's interception last Saturday was the first of his career as he's mainly been an effective pass rusher this season. He has recorded a career-high 11 sacks and could add to that total against the Packers' replacements on Sunday. Keep him active in most Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Lions DE Cliff Avril wasn’t able to record his third-consecutive multi-sack game in Week 16, so he had to settle for an interception returned 4 yards for a touchdown in the fourth quarter as the Lions defeated the Chargers 38-10.
Analysis: The interception and score was the only stat Avril recorded on the day, so he sure made it count. Fantasy owners were likely counting on him to get to the passer, but they’ll certainly take a pick-six. Avril has emerged as a solid DE for IDP purposes.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril had his second consecutive two-sack game in Week 15, as the Lions defeated the Raiders 28-27. He added four tackles – three solo – in the victory.
Analysis: Avril surpassed his career high in sacks in Week 14, and kept rolling right on past in Week 15. He now has 11 sacks on the season, to go with 27 tackles. The sacks are a solid contribution and make him a decent low-end Fantasy IDP option.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril had a memorable game in Week 14, as he made a notable impact in the victory over the Vikings. In addition to making eight tackles, Avril recorded a pair of sacks and recovered a fumble at the very end of the game. Avril's recovery of a fumble by Vikings QB Joe Webb ensured that the Lions would hold on for a win.
Analysis: Avril had one of his better games of the year in Week 14. He won't produce like this every week, but he is a worth starting in deeper IDP formats.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril made one tackle in Week 10 and is was good for a sack on Bears QB Jay Cutler. The Lions would lose the game, however, 37-13.
Analysis: Avril has six sacks on the year in nine games. He had a career-high 8 1/2 sacks in 2010 and he appears on his way to surpassing that total in 2011. Fantasy owners in IDP leagues should consider Avril a No. 3 DL option at this time.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril finished Week 8 against the Broncos with three solo tackles, two tackles, two forced fumbles and one fumble recovery, which he took 24 yards to the house for a touchdown. It was his first career score.
Analysis: Avril has five sacks through eight games. He had a career-high 8 1/2 sacks in 2010 and he appears on his way to surpassing that total in 2011. Unfortunately, he doesn't get a lot of tackles. Consider Avril a viable No. 3 Fantasy DL.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril is active for Week 6 against San Francisco after dealing with a minor elbow injury in practice throughout the past week. Avril was a limited participant in practice on Wednesday and Thursday before returning in full for Friday's session.
Analysis: Avril has recorded two sacks over his past three games in the Lions' aggressive defense. His tackling totals aren't very high as expected for a defensive end, but he should produce a quality number of sacks after netting 8.5 last season. Consider him a viable option in Fantasy IDP formats.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril managed a season-high three tackles in Week 4 at Dallas. He was held without a sack after notching his first in Week 3 in Minnesota.
Analysis: Avril had a career-high 8 1/2 sacks in 2010 and did get better in each of his first three years in the NFL, so there is hope he can turn around this slow start. It's just that Avril is a low-end Fantasy DL until he gets on a roll.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril was ruled active for the Week 3 game at Minnesota. Avril was dealing with a knee injury, but was probable for the game. He was always expected to play against the Vikings.
Analysis: Avril has two tackles and no sacks through two games. He had a career-high 8 1/2 sacks in 2010 and did get better in each of his first three years in the NFL, so there is hope he can turn around this slow start. It's just that Avril is a low-end Fantasy DL until he gets on a roll.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (knee) is listed as probable for Week 3 at Minnesota despite being limited in practice Thursday and Friday.
Analysis: Avril has two tackles and no sacks through two games. He had a career-high 8 1/2 sacks in 2010 and did get better in each of his first three years in the NFL, so there is hope he can turn around this slow start. It's just that Avril is a low-end Fantasy DL until he gets on a roll.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril was not able to notch a tackle Week 2 against the Chiefs, but he still made a big impact. He was able to deflect a pass in the win, but his biggest play was getting his hands on a fumbled ball to get the offense back on the field.
Analysis: Avril had just two tackles last week, so Fantasy owners need more production out of him unless he makes an impact in the turnover game on a regular basis. Keep an eye on his production for now, though he remains a low-end option going forward.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril totaled two tackles (one solo) in Week 1 against the Bucs. He had no tackles for loss or quarterback hits.
Analysis: Avril hasn't had less than five sacks in his first three seasons and totaled a career-high 8 1/2 sacks in 2010. Unfortunately, he doesn't always fill the stat sheet, so Avril remains at best a No. 2 Fantasy DL.
News: The Lions were able to re-sign DL Cliff Avril, according to the team's official website. He signed his one-year tender to return to the team. "I'm happy to be here," he said. "I trained with Kyle (Vanden Bosch) all offseason. I was anticipating being here and I'm happy to be here." Avril notched a career-high 8 1/2 sacks last season.
Analysis: Avril is the final piece of the puzzle on what has become one of the top defensive lines in all of football. The fourth-year pro has increased his sack total in each of his first three seasons, and he's forced eight fumbles over the span in the process. Avril should be able to see single-blocking once again in 2011, and the sacks should again be there. Consider selecting him i the late-rounds on Draft Day, and he's worth utilizing as a low-end DL option.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril made his eighth sack of the season in Week 15, tackling Buccaneers QB Josh Freeman. He also made one tackle in the game.
Analysis: Avril is making his mark with frequent sacks, but he doesn't get enough tackles to be useful in most IDP leagues. Consider him as a low-end Fantasy DL option.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (rib) was listed as active for Week 15 at Tampa Bay.
Analysis: Avril will be ready to play and can be used in deeper IDP formats for Week 15.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (rib) is listed as questionable heading into the Week 15 game against the Buccaneers. He said he expects to play Sunday despite sitting out of Wednesday's practice before seeing limited action the rest of the week.
Analysis: Avril has already established a career-high seven sacks this season, although he failed to reach the QB last week. He says he expects to be ready for Sunday and we expect the same. Consider him to be a low-end Fantasy option heading into Week 15.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril left Week 14's game against the Packers, heading to the locker room in the first quarter with an undisclosed injury. He returned to the game to start the second quarter
Analysis: Avril should be fine to play in Week 15, but check back on his status before setting lineups in IDP leagues.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril recorded a career-high three sacks in the Week 13 loss to Chicago. Helping out in place of injured DE Kyle Vanden Bosch, Avril definitely picked up the slack. He had four tackles in total.
Analysis: Avril has seven sacks this season over nine games played. He doesn't get a whole lot of tackles, but he's been getting to the QB with relative ease. Still, his value in IDP leagues is still pretty low-end heading into Week 14 against Green Bay.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril is active for Week 13 against Chicago. Avril has been dealing with a quadriceps injury for a few weeks now.
Analysis: Avril returned Week 12 from the injury and should be healthy going forward. That said, he only has low-end value in Fantasy IDP leagues.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (quadricep) is listed as questionable for Week 12 vs. New England. Avril was limited in practice all week after missing the last two games.
Analysis: Avril had three sacks in his last two games before getting injured, so him sitting out has come at a bad time for the Lions and Fantasy owners. If he is active for Week 12, then he might be worth starting as a low-end option in deeper Fantasy formats.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (quadricep) participated in limited practice on Monday in preparation for Week 12 against the Patriots. He has been inactive for each of the last two games for Detroit.
Analysis: Avril has four sacks on the year with a forced fumble and could actually return to action in Week 12. Continue to monitor his status over the next few days. When healthy, Avril is a low-end Fantasy DL for use in IDP formats.
News: Lions defensive lineman Cliff Avril (quadriceps) will miss his second consecutive game after being ruled inactive for Week 11 against the Cowboys.
Analysis: Avril continues to be bothered by a quadriceps injury and when healthy, his Fantasy value remains marginal.
News: For the second straight game, Lions DL Cliff Avril (quadriceps) will not be on the field for Detriot. He has been ruled out of the Week 11 game against the Cowboys after missing practice all week. Expect Turk McBride and Lawrence Jackson to share LDE duties in Avril's place.
Analysis: Avril has been fairly steady with four sacks on the season, but he has not been able to get on the field in the last two weeks. When healthy, he is a low-end Fantasy option because he does not rack up tackles from his LDE spot. He does record the occasional sack.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril, who was limited in practice during the week by a quadriceps injury, was inactive for Week 10 at Buffalo.
Analysis: Avril has four sacks on the season, but like most defensive linemen, he's not that useful when he's not getting sacks. He's just a low-end Fantasy option when healthy.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (quadriceps) is listed as questionable for Week 10 at Buffalo. Avril only practiced on Thursday and it was in a limited capacity. He has played in every game since sitting out Week 2.
Analysis: Avril has been a nuisance for the opposition lately with three sacks in his last two games. Although, we aren't sure Avril can keep up the hot streak. He is just an average pass rusher. He remains a low-end Fantasy DL when healthy.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril registered his fourth sack of the season in the Week 9 loss to the Jets. He also managed to force a fumble and rack up two tackles on Sunday.
Analysis: Avril gets overshadowed on the Lions D-line by Ndamukong Suh and Kyle Vanden Bosch, but he is improving week-in, week-out. He might be a sleeper in Fantasy IDP leagues going forward. Keep an eye on him this week, he appeared to be hurt at the end of the game.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril had two sacks along with five total tackles (four solo) vs. the Redskins in Week 8.
Analysis: Avril's been on the prowl for a while now, and with rookie DT Ndamukong Suh playing in a bigger and more disruptive role, Avril might be a sleeper worth eyeballing in IDP league play.
News: Lions DE Cliff Avril developed serious leg cramps in Week 5's game against the Rams. He had trouble putting weight on his legs and was carted from the field. The injury couldn't come at a worse time for a Lions front four that finally was firing on all cylinders.
Analysis: Avril has just eight combined tackles on the season. He should be back for Week 6, but he is a low-end option in IDP leagues when healthy.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (knee, finger) is listed as probable for Week 4 at Green Bay. Avril missed the last two weeks with his injuries, but was able to practiced on a limited basis all week.
Analysis: Avril played in the Week 1 loss to Chicago, but has not played since. Avril is a low-end Fantasy value in IDP leagues when healthy.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (knee, finger) was listed as inactive for Week 3 at Minnesota. He had been ruled out on the injury report earlier in the week.
Analysis: Avril was able to play in Week 1 despite being hobbled, but he has now missed back to back weeks.. Avril is an average pass rusher when healthy and has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril (knee, finger) has been ruled out for Week 2 vs. Philadelphia. He did not practice all week.
Analysis: Avril was able to play in Week 1 despite being hobbled, but it seems his injuries finally caught up to him. Avril is an average pass rusher when healthy and has low-end Fantasy appeal.
News: The Lions reported on Monday that DL Cliff Avril is dealing with a knee injury suffered in Week 1 against the Bears in Chicago. Avril said he doesn't think his injured knee will keep him out of the lineup for the home opener Sunday against the Eagles.
Analysis: Expect Avril to be on the injury report for Week 2 against the Eagles. Avril injured the knee on a PAT in the first half but returned to the game. He recovered a fumble and finished with one tackle in the game. He a third-round pick in 2008, has 10 1/2 sacks in his two seasons, but has struggled against the run and has never given Detroit a consistent pass rush. However, if he keeps improving, Avril could find himself in the mix for consistent playing time on the Lions' revamped defensive line. Consider him a low-end DL option in IDP formats with room to grow.
News: Lions DL Cliff Avril recovered a fumble in his first game of the season in 2010 on Sunday at Chicago. He finished with one tackle.
Analysis: Avril is a low-end DL in IDP leagues and has minimal Fantasy value. Don't plan on using him in the majority of leagues for Week 2 against the Eagles.
News: Lions DE Cliff Avril has continued to show improvement during training camp and earned the praise of coach Jim Schwartz. "He's done a really good job working on his weaknesses," Schwartz said. "He's always been an instinctive pass-rusher, but he's rounded out the other parts of his game. He's worked really hard, and you're seeing the results of that."
Analysis: Avril, a third-round pick in 2008, has 10 1/2 sacks in his two seasons, but has struggled against the run and has never given Detroit a consistent pass rush. However, if he keeps improving, Avril could find himself in the mix for consistent playing time on the Lions' revamped defensive line. He could probably be ignored on Draft Day, but could be a valuable pickup off the waiver wire if he earns a starting job and produces early in the season.
News:Cliff Avril, a third-round pick in 2008, has 10 1/2 sacks in his two seasons, but has struggled against the run and has never given Detroit a consistent pass rush. This season, the defensive end will have to improve his performance against the run in order to earn a regular role on the Lions' revamped defensive line. "I've got a lot of work to do," Avril said. "We've got a lot of new guys here, and I know I've got to get better."
Analysis: Avril appears to be a one-week replacement option who you can find off waivers. Don't bother adding him to your IDP league roster.
News: In the Lions' Week 15 loss vs. the Cardinals, notable defensive players included DB Louis Delmas (eight total tackles, 100-yard interception-return for a touchdown), DB Marvin White (nine total tackles), DL Jason Hunter (two solo tackles, sack) and DE Cliff Avril (two total tackles, sack, forced fumble).
Analysis: Delmas has been impressive as a rookie for the Lions while White and Hunter have been low-end IDP producers. Consider these three players for Week 16 at San Francisco.
News: The Lions defense had a decent showing on Sunday in a Week 13 loss to the Bengals. Marvin White and Louis Delmas led the way on defense with both players tying for the team lead in tackles with 11. Anthony Henry had five tackles in the game and added an interception. Phillip Buchanon had five tackles in the game as well, adding a sack and a forced fumble. William James had an interception in the game and added three tackles. DeWayne White recovered a fumble in the game.
Analysis: Delmas is the only mentioned player that is worth using in the majority of IDP formats and should be considered a No. 2 option. The rest of these players are either low-end options or not worth owning in Fantasy play.
News: The Lions have listed the following players as inactive for Week 10 at Minnesota: LB Ernie Sims (hamstring), CB Anthony Henry, DE Cliff Avril, DT Landon Cohen, RB Aaron Brown and QB Drew Stanton (third QB).
Analysis: Sims, Avril and Henry have some IDP value in deeper leagues, so be sure to bench them for Week 10. All the other guys are not worth worrying about in Fantasy play.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril has been listed as questionable for the team's Week 5 game against the Steelers. Avril was able to participate in practice in full all week.
Analysis: Avril is just a low-end Fantasy option with the Lions when healthy. Monitor his status leading up to gametime on Sunday.
News: Lions LB Larry Foote was one of several Detroit defenders to play well Sunday at Chicago. Foote had six tackles. DB Anthony Henry had four tackles, LB Julian Peterson had six tackles and DB Louis Delmas had three tackles and a sack. Along with that, LB DeAndre Levy had eight tackles and a forced fumble and DL Cliff Avril had a sack and a forced fumble.
Analysis: The Lions have a tough matchup in Week 5 against the Steelers, so consider using Foote against his former team, and Delmas and Henry have minimal Fantasy value. Ignore Peterson, Avril and Levy in that matchup.
News: The Lions have listed the following inactives for their Week 3 game hosting the Redskins: 3rd QB Drew Stanton, CB Marcus McCauley, CB Eric King, LB Ernie Sims, DE Turk McBride and DE Cliff Avril.
Analysis: Avril is about the only player worth starting as a low-end Fantasy DL when healthy. Most of these guys are reserves or special teams contributors when active. Keep them reserved for Week 3.
News: The Lions have listed QB Drew Stanton, WR Derrick Williams, DB Marcus McCauley, RB Terrelle Smith, DL Turk McBride and DL Cliff Avril as inactive for Week 2 vs. Minnesota.
Analysis: Avril is about the only player worth starting as a low-end Fantasy DL when healthy. Most of these guys are reserves or special teams contributors when active. Keep them reserved for Week 2.
News: Detroit DL Cliff Avril is listed as doubtful for the team's Week 2 game against the Vikings with a hamstring injury.
Analysis: Avril had only one solo tackle in the team's Week 1 game and is not much of an IDP Fantasy option. Keep him out of all lineups for Week 2.
News: In the Lions' 47-10 loss vs. the Titans on Thanksgiving as part of Week 13 action, notable Lions defenders included: LB Ryan Nece (nine total tackles), LB Paris Lenon (eight total tackles), LB Ernie Sims (six total tackles) and DE Cliff Avril (three solo tackles, sack, forced fumble).
Analysis: Lenon and Sims are decent middle- to low-end options, and Avril should be a good player in the future. The Lions host the Vikings in Week 14.
News: Lions LB Paris Lenon (seven tackles), DB Kalvin Pearson (six tackles), LB Alex Lewis (five tackles), LB Ernie Sims (five tackles), LB Ryan Nece (four tackles, sack), DL Cliff Avril (sack) and DL Chartric Darby (sack) all helped out in a Week 12 loss to the Buccaneers.
Analysis: Lenon has some Fantasy value in deeper IDP Fantasy leagues, but the rest of these guys are not viable in Fantasy play. Detroit hosts Tennessee on Thanksgiving and none of the players in this list should be starting for that matchup.
News: The Lions listed the following players as inactive for Week 3: QB Drew Stanton (third QB), DB Ramzee Robinson, LB Jordon Dizon, DL Damion Cook, DL Cliff Avril DL, Andre Fluellen and DL Landon Cohen.
Analysis: None of the players on this list are going to be in line for considerable playing time anytime soon. Leave them on the waiver wire in all Fantasy leagues until further notice. They've got some depth chart climbing to do.
News: Detroit LB Cliff Avril (back) was healthy enough to play on Thursday against the Bills. Avril saw limited action and recorded a tackle and half a sack.
Analysis: Avril will likely get a chance to play right away, but he has minimal Fantasy value in 2008. Don't plan on drafting him in most IDP leagues this year, but keep an eye on how he does to see if he's worth adding off the waiver wire.
News:The Sports Xchange reports that Lions rookie LB Cliff Avril suffered a back injury against Cleveland on Saturday.
Analysis: Avril will likely get a chance to play right away, but he has minimal Fantasy value in 2008. Don't plan on drafting him in most IDP leagues this year, but keep an eye on how he does to see if he's worth adding off the waiver wire.
News: The Lions signed third-round draft selection Cliff Avril to a three-year contract Monday. Terms of the contract were not released. The 6-foot-4, 252 pound Avril was the 92nd overall pick of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played defensive end his last two seasons at Purdue University, mostly at left end. Earlier in his career he played strong-side linebacker.
Analysis: Avril will likely get a chance to play right away, but he has minimal Fantasy value in 2008. Don't plan on drafting him in most IDP leagues this year, but keep an eye on how he does to see if he's worth adding off the waiver wire.
News: The Lions addressed several needs in the 2008 NFL Draft, starting in the second round at LB with Jordon Dizon from Colorado. They also drafted DT Andre Fluellen from Florida State in the third round, LB Cliff Avril from Purdue in the third round, WR Kenneth Moore from Wake Forest in the fifth round, FB Jerome Felton from Furman in the fifth round, DT Landon Cohen from Ohio in the seventh round and DB Caleb Campbell from Army in the seventh round.
Analysis: Dizon will compete for a starting spot right away and is a decent LB in IDP leagues because of his potential to play. Fluellen is a space eater and has minimal Fantasy value. Avril also is a decent IDP option but should go undrafted. Moore and Felton will probably play on special teams, and Cohen and Campbell have no Fantasy value at this time.
