Right tackle Jeff Backus was designated the Detroit Lions' franchise player on Thursday, allowing the Lions to match any offer that he gets. Backus will be offered a one-year contract worth the average of the top five salaries at his position, or $6.98 million. The team can continue to negotiate a long-term contract while Backus is not required to attend team activities until he signs the franchise tender. Backus also can sign with other teams, but the Lions can match a new team's offer or receive two first-round draft choices if they decide to let him go.