The Lions and the agent for Cliff Avril continue to negotiate on a new contract, but nothing is imminent. Avril wants to be in training camp later this month, but for now he is working out on his own and hoping to get that phone call. The defender has until July 16 to sign a tender with the Lions or sit out the season. He is expected to sign the tender because he wants to play. He doesn't want to deal with the deadline. "I hope not but you never know," Avril said. "This is my first go-round. I am just waiting on the call saying I am coming back to work."