When the possibility of a franchise tag was first discussed, Cliff Avril wasn’t too happy. Reportedly he even said he would hold out if that happened.

Well today (Monday) he was given a non-exclusive franchise tag. That means he can talk to other teams, but the Lions have a right to match any offer or be compensated with two first-round draft picks.

In all likelihood he’s staying. He’s a key piece to the puzzle and the Lions need him on the defensive line where he had his best season so far last year with 11 sacks and six forced fumbles.

Avril apparently has softened a bit on his stance on the franchise tag.

“Honestly and truthfully — at the end of the day — I’m very, very fortunate to be franchised by an NFL team,’’ Avril said on the Lions web site. “I’m very blessed. That being said, being a business, you always want to do what's best for you and your family.

“Being franchised — I’m blessed and I’m definitely happy about being considered a player to give that tag to. I just hope we can continue to negotiate and try to get something done,’’ he added.

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