Cliff Avril, a defensive end known for his speed and agility, played an influential role in the National Football League (NFL) during his career. Born on April 8, 1986, in Jacksonville, Florida, Avril attended Purdue University, where he honed his skills on the college football stage. His performance at Purdue caught the attention of NFL scouts, leading to his selection in the third round of the 2008 NFL Draft by the Detroit Lions.
Avril's rookie season with the Lions set the stage for a promising career. He quickly established himself as a reliable defensive player, recording five sacks and four forced fumbles in his debut season. Over the next few years, Avril continued to develop his game, becoming a cornerstone of the Lions' defensive line. His ability to pressure quarterbacks and disrupt offensive plays made him a valuable asset to the team.
In 2011, Avril had a breakout season, achieving a career-high 11 sacks and six forced fumbles. His performance helped the Lions reach the playoffs for the first time since 1999. Avril's efforts on the field earned him the franchise tag in 2012, a testament to his importance to the Lions' defense. Despite the team's struggles, Avril remained a consistent performer, finishing the 2012 season with 9.5 sacks.
In 2013, Avril entered free agency and signed a two-year contract with the Seattle Seahawks. This move proved to be a turning point in his career. Joining a team known for its formidable defense, Avril became an integral part of the Seahawks' defensive unit, known as the "Legion of Boom." His first season with Seattle culminated in a Super Bowl XLVIII victory, where the Seahawks defeated the Denver Broncos. Avril's performance in the Super Bowl was noteworthy, as he contributed with two tackles and a forced safety.
Avril continued to excel with the Seahawks, signing a four-year contract extension in 2014. He played a crucial role in helping the team reach Super Bowl XLIX, although they fell short against the New England Patriots. Over the next few seasons, Avril remained a consistent force on the field, recording multiple sacks and maintaining his reputation as a disruptive defensive end.
In 2016, Avril achieved a personal milestone by being selected for the Pro Bowl, recognizing his outstanding performance throughout the season. He finished the year with 11.5 sacks, tying his career high. Unfortunately, Avril's career faced a setback in 2017 when he suffered a neck injury that limited his playing time. Despite his efforts to return to the field, the injury ultimately led to his retirement from professional football in 2018.
Throughout his career, Cliff Avril was known for his speed, agility, and ability to pressure opposing quarterbacks. His contributions to the Detroit Lions and Seattle Seahawks left a lasting impression on both franchises.
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