Cliff Avril, Stephen Tulloch Make Two Top NFL Free Agents Lists

by Sean Yuille on Feb 12, 2012 11:01 PM EST in Detroit Lions News

The Detroit Lions have quite a few players set to become free agents next month. Several talented players are set to hit the open market, including defensive end Cliff Avril and linebacker Stephen Tulloch. Each of these two players had outstanding seasons in 2011, and the hope is they will be brought back in 2012.

Both the Sporting News and CBS Sports recently took a look at the top NFL free agents, and both Avril and Tulloch made the sites' lists. For the Sporting News, Avril came in at No. 10 and Tulloch was listed 20th. On CBS Sports, Tulloch is farther down the list at No. 37, but Avril is in the top five at No. 4. Here's why he is so high on the list:

4. Cliff Avril, DE, Detroit Lions: He has 19 1/2 sacks the past two seasons, including 11 last season. He has developed into a top pass rusher. He turns 26 in April, which makes him even more valuable.

I expect both players to return to the Lions next season, but if either is unable to agree to a deal, you can bet there will be a lot of interest from other teams in the league.

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I don't understand why Tulloch doesn't get more love... I want him back more than Avril, although I really want them both back.

I guess it’s better in the long run, maybe Tulloch will sign for cheap again.

President of the Tony Scheffler Fan Club

by ZWC11 on Feb 13, 2012 12:46 AM EST reply actions

There are "sexy" positions that get more recognition on D

Guys who get sacks or could be shutdown corners tend to get way more love than solid run-stopping linebackers.

Formerly WestSideLionsFan. Fan of all Detroit sports teams.

by WalterM on Feb 13, 2012 12:49 AM EST up reply actions

Cliff Avril

Well … when you’re on the edge of the cliff, it’s good to have Cliff on the edge.

by mjkelly77 on Feb 13, 2012 8:52 AM EST reply actions

Tulloch is a must sign

Tulloch no doubt should be signeg to at least a 3 or 4 year deal,Avril is good but they cannot afford both and Lojack or Willie Young can play that position.LB is a must and Tulloch must be resigned

by tas49002 on Feb 13, 2012 1:20 PM EST reply actions

Finnegan a Lion maybe?

Interesting to here this on Cortland Finnegan,Detroit has to resignCalvin and Tulloch for sure i hope they can get Finnegan but i think he is gonna cost way to much and lets face it Detroit wants Avril,Tulloch,Backus all resigned thats gonna cost big time bucks and i dont see how they will sign Finnegan,but then again Mayhew and Lewand you just never know they can pull a rabbit out of a hat at anytime

by tas49002 on Feb 13, 2012 1:23 PM EST reply actions