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Cliff Avril
Cliff Avril
Cliff Avril
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Clifford Samuel Avril (born April 8, 1986) is an American former professional football player who was a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Purdue Boilermakers and was selected in the third round of the 2008 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions. He also played for the Seattle Seahawks, with whom he won Super Bowl XLVIII and made a Pro Bowl.

Key Information

Early life

[edit]

Avril was born in Jacksonville, Florida, to Haitian parents.[1][2][3] He attended Clay High School in Green Cove Springs, Florida, where he was a four-sport star in football, track and field, weightlifting, and basketball. Avril was an All State player in basketball and football. He was an All-conference selection his junior year. As a senior in 2004, he was a second-team All-state selection and was named to The Florida Times-Union Super 24 team after recording 80 tackles, including 11 for loss and nine sacks, with four pass breakups, leading his team to an 11–2 record.[4]

He also excelled in track & field during his junior and senior seasons. He captured a regional shot put title at the 2004 FHSAA 2A Region 2, recording a career-best throw of 15.91 meters (52 ft, 2.5 in).[5] He earned a third-place finish in the shot put at the outdoor state finals.[6] In addition, he also had a 335-pound max bench press and posted a 4.6-second 40-yard dash time.

College career

[edit]

Avril then attended Purdue University, where he started 12 games at strong-side linebacker and 23 at left defensive end. After converting to defensive end in his final two seasons at Purdue, he recorded 30 of his 35.5 tackles-for-losses and 12.5 of his 13 sacks from the left end position.

In 2004, he appeared in all 12 games, including four starts made 36 tackles (23 solo, 13 assists), including 3.0 for loss and 0.5 sacks, with one pass breakup and one forced fumble. In 2005, he appeared in 10 games, including four starts and had 33 tackles (21 solo, 12 assists), including 2.5 for loss. In 2006, he started all 14 games, the first four at linebacker and last 10 at defensive end and recorded 84 tackles (51 solo, 33 assists) 15.0 tackles-for-loss, six sacks and six pass breakups, two forced fumbles, one fumble recovery and one interception.

Professional career

[edit]
Pre-draft measurables
Height Weight Arm length Hand span 40-yard dash 10-yard split 20-yard split 20-yard shuttle Three-cone drill Vertical jump Broad jump Bench press Wonderlic
6 ft 2+7⁄8 in
(1.90 m)		 252 lb
(114 kg)		 34+5⁄8 in
(0.88 m)		 9+3⁄4 in
(0.25 m)		 4.51 s 1.51 s 2.58 s 4.51 s 6.90 s 32.5 in
(0.83 m)		 9 ft 9 in
(2.97 m)		 27 reps 17
All values from NFL Combine[7][8][9]

Detroit Lions

[edit]

Avril was selected in the third round (92nd overall) of the 2008 NFL draft by the Detroit Lions.[10] He signed a three-year, $1.634 million contract. In 2008, he recorded 23 tackles and five sacks. He was named to the Sporting News All-Rookie team. 2009 saw even better tackle statistics for Avril. He recorded 18 more tackles in 2009 than he did his rookie year in 2008. But his pass rushing ability stats did not improve much over his rookie year, as he recorded just a half sack more (5.5) in 2009.

In 2010, Avril posted the best stats of his career with 33 tackles and 8.5 sacks. Not to be outdone by this, Avril played in all 16 games for the first time in 2011. He had 36 tackles, and a team-high 11 sacks. Avril had more forced fumbles than any other defensive end with 6. He also had 3 fumble recoveries (one for a touchdown) to go along with an interception that was returned for a touchdown. Many sportswriters felt that he was worthy of the Pro Bowl, but Jared Allen, Jason Pierre-Paul, and Jason Babin were selected instead to the NFC roster.

On March 5, 2012, the Lions placed the non-exclusive franchise tag on Avril, keeping him in Detroit for the 2012 season.[11] On August 5, Avril signed his tender, which was worth $10.6 million.[12] Prior to the franchise tag, Avril rejected a 3-year, $30 million contract offered by the Lions. In 2012, Avril had 9.5 sacks, one forced fumble and one pass defensed, which Lions management considered a decline in performance from the previous year.[13]

Seattle Seahawks

[edit]

On March 13, 2013, Avril signed a two-year, $13 million contract with the Seattle Seahawks. In the 2013 season, he was credited for his contribution to the Seahawks' dominant victory in Super Bowl XLVIII over the Denver Broncos.[14] He set a Super Bowl record by scoring only twelve seconds into the game with a safety stemming from a botched opening snap by the Broncos, and he later forced an interception that led to a touchdown.[14] Following the Seahawks' victory, Avril became the first player in NFL history to win a Super Bowl after having been on a winless team (his rookie year on the Lions in 2008).

In the 2014 season, after recording just 2 sacks over the first 10 games, Avril would register 3 in the last 6 games, coinciding with a 6-game winning streak during which the Seahawks defense allowed a total of 39 points. On December 19, 2014, Avril signed a 4-year extension with the Seahawks worth $28.5 million.[15] Avril would also register a sack in the divisional round playoff game against the Carolina Panthers and NFC Championship game against the Green Bay Packers, both Seahawk victories. In Super Bowl XLIX, Avril recorded 2 tackles, but left in the third quarter with a concussion and did not return. The Seahawks failed to repeat as Super Bowl champions as they lost 28–24 to the New England Patriots.

In the 2015 season, Avril was evaluated by Pro Football Focus as the fifth best edge defender in the league at the halfway point of the season. Through those eight games, Avril recorded 30 tackles (20 solo), 3.5 sacks, 1 forced fumble, 5 pass deflections, and 5 tackles for loss.[16]

In the 2016 season, Avril was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for October. He was also named to his first Pro Bowl, and was ranked 56th by his peers on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2017.[17][18]

In Week 4 of the 2017 season, Avril suffered a serious neck injury in the first quarter of Seattle's 46–18 win over the Indianapolis Colts. He was inadvertently kicked in his chin against the Colts and had been experiencing numbness in his arms.[19] Seahawks head coach Pete Carroll commented on the injury saying Avril will be out "a while".[20] He was placed on injured reserve on October 20, 2017.[21]

On May 4, 2018, the Seahawks released Avril with a failed physical designation.[22]

NFL career statistics

[edit]
Legend
Won the Super Bowl
Bold Career high

Regular season

[edit]
Year Team GP Tackles Fumbles Interceptions Other
Comb Solo Ast Sack FF FR Yds Int Yds Avg Lng TD PD Stf Yds KB
2008 DET 15 23 18 5 5.0 4 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 4 0
2009 DET 13 41 27 14 5.5 3 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 3 8 0
2010 DET 13 33 23 10 8.5 1 1 10 0 0 0 0 0 5 1 8 0
2011 DET 16 36 29 7 11.0 6 3 24 1 4 4 4 1 4 2 5 0
2012 DET 16 35 28 7 9.5 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 1 4 40 0
2013 SEA 15 20 14 6 8.0 6 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 4 2 2 0
2014 SEA 16 22 15 7 5.0 1 1 0 0 0 0 0 0 2 4 8 0
2015 SEA 16 47 31 16 9.0 2 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 7 7 17 0
2016 SEA 16 39 20 19 11.5 5 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 3 1 5 0
2017 SEA 4 2 2 0 1.0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0 0
Total 140 298 207 91 74.0 30 7 44 1 4 4 4 1 29 27 97 0

[23]

Post-playing career

[edit]

Avril was a guest in Germany during the NFL Trophy Tour 2018, including in Hamburg and Cologne.

References

[edit]
[edit]
Revisions and contributorsEdit on WikipediaRead on Wikipedia

Cliff Avril

View on Grokipedia
from Grokipedia
Cliff Avril, whose full name is Clifford Samuel Avril, is an American former professional who played as a in the (NFL) for 10 seasons, primarily known for his tenure with the and . Born on April 8, 1986, in , Avril stood at 6 feet 3 inches tall and weighed 260 pounds during his playing career, bringing explosive speed and power to the defensive line. He played college football at , where he recorded 35.5 tackles for loss and 13 sacks over his career, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2007. Selected in the third round (92nd overall) of the by the , Avril quickly emerged as a pass-rushing threat, amassing 39.5 sacks over five seasons with the team from 2008 to 2012. In 2013, he signed with the as a , forming a formidable defensive line alongside players like Michael Bennett and becoming a key part of the "Legion of Boom" era. During his five years with the Seahawks (2013–2017), Avril contributed to back-to-back appearances, including a victory in after the 2013 season, where he recorded 8.0 sacks that year. Avril's career highlights include one selection in 2016, when he recorded 11.5 sacks and earned first-team honors, as well as being named the NFC Defensive Player of the Month for that year. Over 140 regular-season games, he tallied 74 sacks, 29 forced fumbles, 7 fumble recoveries, and 1 , ranking him among the top pass rushers of his era despite playing in a run-heavy defensive scheme. His career was interrupted by a injury in 2017, leading to his retirement in May 2018 at age 32. Post-retirement, Avril has remained active in the community, earning recognition as the Seahawks Legend of the Year in 2020 for his philanthropy and business ventures, including music production and investments.

Early life

Childhood and family

Cliff Avril was born on April 8, 1986, in , to Haitian immigrant parents Jean Samuel Avril and Marie Avril. His parents emigrated from to the in the 1980s, settling in Jacksonville where they raised Avril and his brother Asnel in a working-class household. Growing up, Avril maintained strong cultural ties to through family visits with his mother during summers, fostering a sense of heritage and discipline influenced by his father's emphasis on hard work and education. In his early years, Avril showed interest in sports like before transitioning to organized football in high school.

High school career

Cliff Avril attended Clay High School in , graduating in 2004. During his time there, he developed into a prominent , showcasing his speed and power on the line. As a two-year starter, Avril's athleticism stood out in a program that emphasized disciplined play. In his senior year during the 2003 season, Avril delivered a breakout performance with 80 tackles, including 11 tackles for loss and 9 sacks, along with 4 pass breakups. These contributions earned him second-team All-State honors in Class 3A. His disruptive presence was key to the Clay Blue Devils' strong campaign, as the team compiled a 10-1 record and advanced to the state playoffs, where they faced tough regional competition. Despite his on-field impact, Avril was not among the top-recruited prospects in , often overlooked by major programs early on. Measuring 6 feet 3 inches and 225 pounds as a senior, his raw speed, explosiveness, and relentless motor caught the eye of college scouts, ultimately securing a scholarship offer from .

College career

Recruitment and Purdue

Avril was viewed as an underrated high school prospect, ranked as the No. 37 outside linebacker nationally by despite not cracking the top 100 at . Following a standout senior season at Clay High School in —where his versatility across defensive roles drew scout attention—he received scholarship offers from multiple programs, ultimately committing to the on January 4, 2004, and signing his on February 4, 2004. His decision aligned with Purdue's emphasis on developing athletic defenders under head coach Joe Tiller, who oversaw a program known for producing NFL talent at the position. Upon arriving at Purdue, Avril enrolled in the fall of and declared a major in organizational leadership and supervision, a focused on management principles and team dynamics that complemented his athletic pursuits. As a true , he adjusted to the level through participation in practices and weight-room sessions, prioritizing physical development to meet the demands of Big Ten competition; he entered campus at around 225 pounds and bulked up significantly over his early years, reaching 260 pounds by his professional career. Avril appeared in all 12 games during the season, including four starts, recording 36 tackles (23 solo), 3 tackles for loss, 0.5 sacks, and 1 forced fumble, with limited snaps early on including a matchup against Syracuse where he recorded five tackles (three solo) and one tackle for loss. By his year in 2005, Avril had adapted to Purdue's defensive system and secured a rotational role on the Boilermakers' front seven, contributing 33 total tackles across 10 games while learning alongside upperclassmen. This gradual integration allowed him to refine his pass-rushing technique and build toward a starting position, laying the foundation for his emergence as a key contributor in subsequent seasons.

On-field performance

Cliff Avril played all four seasons at Purdue on the defensive line, transitioning from a rotational player and part-time starter as a true to a full-time starter and earning recognition as one of the Big Ten's top pass rushers. His college career statistics included 193 tackles, 35.5 tackles for loss, 13 sacks, and 6 forced fumbles across 49 games. These numbers underscored his disruptive presence, particularly in his final two years after switching from linebacker to , where he generated 30 tackles for loss and 12.5 sacks from the left end position. Avril's junior season in 2006 represented a breakout, as he started all 14 games and led the team with 84 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, and 6 sacks, helping Purdue to an 8-5 record and a berth in the Champs Sports Bowl. His quick first step and relentless pursuit were evident in key moments, such as his 5-tackle performance with 1 tackle for loss in the bowl loss to Maryland. Despite the team's inconsistent defensive rankings, Avril's production highlighted his evolution into a reliable edge presence capable of affecting both the pass and run games. In 2007, as a senior, Avril built on his momentum with 40 tackles, 15 tackles for loss, 6.5 sacks, and 3 forced fumbles in 13 games, earning second-team All-Big Ten honors from league coaches and media. Notable performances included a sack and tackle for loss in Purdue's 33-19 regular-season win over Notre Dame, where his pressure limited the Fighting Irish to under 300 total yards, and 0.5 sacks in the Motor City Bowl victory against (51-48), a high-scoring affair that capped an 8-5 campaign. His ability to collapse the pocket was instrumental in several upset wins, including against ranked opponents. Avril's playing style emphasized explosive athleticism, blending a reported 4.6-second time with elite quickness off to excel as a situational rusher early on before becoming an every-down defender. Coaches praised his hand usage and bend around tackles, which allowed him to rack up negative plays despite Purdue's overall defensive struggles. Following his senior year, Avril declared for the , forgoing further eligibility after projecting as a mid-round pick based on his tape and production.

Professional career

Detroit Lions tenure

Cliff Avril was selected by the in the third round (92nd overall) of the after a standout college career at Purdue, where his pass-rushing skills had drawn attention from scouts. He signed a three-year rookie contract worth $1.634 million, including a $484,000 , on July 14, 2008. As a rookie under head coach , Avril appeared in 15 games, starting four, and recorded 23 tackles and 5.0 sacks while adjusting to the speed and physicality of professional football during a challenging 0-16 season for the Lions. Marinelli praised Avril's athleticism and potential, noting his quick get-off as a foundation for growth despite the team's struggles. Avril's development accelerated in subsequent seasons, establishing him as a cornerstone of the Lions' defensive line during their rebuilding phase. In 2009, he started 11 of 13 games, tallying 41 tackles and 5.5 sacks. His breakout came in 2010 with 8.5 sacks in 13 starts alongside veterans like , contributing to a defense that improved amid the Lions' transition to a more aggressive scheme under new coordinator . The 2011 season marked Avril's career high with the Lions, as he started all 16 games, notching 36 tackles and 11.0 sacks while forcing six fumbles; this performance helped power a resurgent Lions defense that supported a 10-6 record and a playoff appearance, though Avril was not selected for the . Entering the final year of his deal, Avril received the from the Lions on March 5, 2012, securing a one-year, fully guaranteed contract worth $10.605 million, which he signed on August 5 after a brief holdout. In 2012, he started all 16 games, recording 35 tackles and 9.5 sacks while continuing to anchor the opposite players like Vanden Bosch and . Over his five seasons with , Avril amassed 39.5 sacks in 73 games (60 starts), showcasing his explosive edge-rushing ability. The Lions allowed Avril to become an unrestricted on March 12, 2013, amid constraints that limited their ability to retain him at following his franchise-tagged year. This decision came after failed negotiations for a long-term extension, with the team prioritizing cap flexibility for other roster needs.

Seattle Seahawks era

On March 13, 2013, Avril signed a two-year, $15 million contract with the , reuniting him with his former teammate and Seahawks linebacker . His prior experience as a pass rusher with the positioned him for an immediate key role as a rotational pass rusher on Seattle's defensive line. During the 2013 regular season, Avril recorded 8.0 sacks and 20 combined tackles while anchoring the edge of the Seahawks' vaunted defense, often referred to in conjunction with the Legion of Boom secondary. The unit propelled to a 13-3 record, the NFC's best, and clinched the division title for the first time since 2006. Avril contributed significantly to the Seahawks' postseason run, culminating in a dominant 43-8 victory over the in on February 2, 2014, where he registered three solo tackles and applied key pressure on , leading to an . This performance earned Avril his first championship ring as part of the franchise's inaugural Lombardi Trophy win. In the ensuing seasons from 2014 to 2016, Avril maintained elite production, notching 5.0 sacks in 2014, 9.0 in 2015, and a career-high 11.5 in 2016, the latter earning him his lone selection. The Seahawks qualified for the playoffs in each of those years, showcasing Avril's fit within head coach Pete Carroll's aggressive, scheme-driven defensive system that emphasized explosive edge rushes. Over his five seasons in , Avril amassed 34.5 regular-season sacks, establishing himself as one of the NFL's premier pass rushers during the team's contending era.

Retirement and injuries

During the , Cliff Avril suffered a severe in Week 4 against the on October 1, when the heel of Jacoby Brissett's foot struck him in the face, causing his head to snap back violently. This , which involved damage and required disc-related in late November, led to muscle spasms and sidelined him for the remainder of the season after he was placed on injured reserve in mid-October. The abrupt end to his playing time marked a stark contrast to his peak performance in the prior years with the , where he had established himself as a pass rusher. Avril attempted a comeback in 2018 but failed multiple physical examinations due to lingering nerve damage from the injury, prompting the Seahawks to release him on May 4 with a failed physical designation. At age 32, he effectively retired from the NFL later that year, having secured financial stability from his four-year, $28.5 million contract extension with Seattle signed in 2014—which included $16 million in guarantees—and overall career earnings exceeding $47 million across his decade in the league. His career concluded with 74 sacks, a figure that underscored his impact as a defensive end, though there was no immediate formal push for Hall of Fame consideration at the time of his exit. In public reflections, Avril expressed relief from the chronic physical pain that had plagued him since the injury, stating it allowed him to focus on recovery and family life with his wife and children in Seattle. However, he also conveyed the emotional difficulty of missing the intensity and camaraderie of the game, describing the transition as one of his "darkest moments" amid the loss of identity tied to football. This period emphasized his shift toward personal healing and providing stability for his family, marking the immediate aftermath of an injury-forced end to a distinguished professional tenure.

Career statistics

Regular season totals

Cliff Avril amassed 74 sacks over 140 regular season games during his career from 2008 to 2017, establishing himself as a prolific pass rusher primarily with the and . His defensive contributions included 298 total tackles (207 solo, 91 assisted), 29 forced fumbles, 1 , and 29 passes defended, reflecting a focus on disruptive plays rather than volume tackling typical for defensive ends. The following table summarizes Avril's year-by-year regular season statistics, highlighting his progression and peak performances:
YearTeamGames (G)Starts (GS)Solo TacklesAst TacklesSacksFFINTPD
2008DET1541855.0400
2009DET131127145.5303
2010DET131323108.5105
2011DET161629711.0614
2012DET16162879.5201
20131521468.0504
201416161575.0102
2015161631169.0207
20161616201911.5503
201744201.0000
Career-1401142079174.029129
Avril's sack production peaked in 2011 with the Lions, where he recorded 11.0 sacks in 16 starts, and in 2016 with the Seahawks at 11.5 sacks, showcasing his explosive edge-rushing ability in both 4-3 and Legion of Boom defensive schemes. His career sacks-per-game average of approximately 0.53 underscored efficiency as a rotational and starting defender, with 29 forced fumbles highlighting his knack for strip-sack opportunities. In pass defense, Avril contributed 29 passes defended across his tenure, adding versatility beyond pure rushing. Prior to his 2017 retirement, Avril ranked among the NFL's top active pass rushers with 74 sacks, tying for 149th all-time upon exit and demonstrating sustained impact despite injury challenges, including a issue that limited him to four games in his final season. His totals were bolstered by strong Lions defenses early on and the Seahawks' dominant front seven later, where he often faced double-teams yet maintained high productivity.

Postseason contributions

Cliff Avril appeared in 11 postseason games over his career from 2012 to 2017, recording 26 combined tackles, 7.0 sacks, and 2 forced fumbles. His postseason production built on his regular-season pass-rushing prowess, where he amassed 74.0 sacks across 10 seasons. Avril's lone playoff appearance with the came in the 2011 Wild Card round against the on January 7, 2012, where he contributed 2 tackles and 0.5 sack in a 45-28 loss, reflecting his emerging but limited role on a defense that struggled to contain the opposition. After signing with the , Avril's postseason impact grew significantly during the team's contending years. In the 2013 playoffs en route to , he tallied 1.5 sacks across three games, including 1.0 sack against the in the , along with 2 forced fumbles that disrupted opposing offenses. Although he did not record a sack in the Super Bowl victory over the , Avril's key hit on quarterback early in the game led to an return for a , while he also notched a and 3 tackles. In the 2014 Divisional playoff win over the , Avril registered 1.0 sack and 2 tackles, helping anchor a Seahawks defense that limited Carolina to just 10 points. The following postseason in 2015, he added 2.0 sacks in the first two rounds—1.0 each against the and —before the loss to , where he contributed 2 tackles amid intense pass-rush pressure. During the 2016 and 2017 playoff runs, Avril continued to apply key pressures, including a 1.0 sack and 5 tackles in the Divisional win over and 2.0 sacks with 3 tackles against in 2017, though Seattle fell short in NFC Championship losses to the (where he had 3 tackles) and (1 tackle). These efforts supported Seattle's top-ranked defenses in high-stakes games, often ranking among the league's best in points allowed and sacks. Overall, Avril's 7.0 postseason sacks ranked as the highest in playoff history, elevating the team's in critical moments and underscoring his value in pursuits.

Awards and honors

Team achievements

During his tenure with the from 2008 to 2012, Cliff Avril contributed to the team's resurgence, highlighted by their first playoff appearance since 1999 in the 2011 season, where they finished 10-6 and secured a wild card spot before losing to the . That year, the Lions ranked second in the with 41 sacks, bolstering a defense that supported the team's return to postseason contention. Avril's move to the Seattle Seahawks in 2013 marked the beginning of a dominant period for the franchise's defense, where he played a key role in winning three titles in 2013, 2014, and 2016, going undefeated in division play in 2014 (6-0) and 2016 (5-0-1) (5-1 in 2013). The Seahawks' defense, anchored by Avril's pass-rushing prowess alongside Michael Bennett, led the in points allowed in 2013 (14.4 per game) and 2014 (15.9 per game), ranked 2nd in 2015 (17.3 per game), and third in 2016 (18.3 per game), establishing one of the league's most formidable units. The pinnacle of these team successes came in following the 2013 season, when the Seahawks defeated the 43-8, with Avril recording a on the opening play and helping limit to just one in a dominant defensive performance that held to eight total points. Avril's synergy with the secondary, known as the "Legion of Boom" featuring players like and , complemented the front line's pressure, enabling the Seahawks to secure their first championship.

Individual recognitions

Cliff Avril garnered individual accolades that underscored his development as a formidable , from his college days at Purdue to his professional career in the . At Purdue, Avril earned second-team All-Big Ten honors in 2007 after recording 13 sacks and 35.5 tackles for loss over his career. In the , Avril's consistent pass-rushing production led to his selection to the following the 2016 season with the , marking his first and only appearance in the all-star game after nine years in the league. He entered the 2016 campaign as a nine-year veteran who had been overlooked in prior seasons despite strong performances, such as 9.5 sacks in 2013 and 8.0 in 2015, embodying a narrative of perseverance from a third-round draft pick (92nd overall in 2008 by the ) to status. That year, Avril recorded 11.5 sacks, earning praise as one of Seattle's most deserving selections. In 2016, Avril earned first-team honors and was named NFC Defensive Player of the Month for October. Avril's impact extended to key career milestones. Off the field, Avril was nominated as the Seahawks' representative for the 2016 NFL Man of the Year Award, recognizing his community efforts alongside his on-field excellence. Prior to retirement, Avril was ranked No. 56 on the NFL Network's Top 100 Players of 2017 list, as voted by his peers, reflecting his elite status as a pass rusher who had amassed 74 career sacks despite injury challenges in his final seasons.

Post-playing career

Business and investments

Following his retirement from the NFL in 2018, Cliff Avril transitioned into by founding CA Family Properties, a Seattle-based and development firm. The company specializes in acquiring, renovating, and operating affordable, workforce, and value-oriented multifamily apartment communities in urban and suburban U.S. markets, with a primary emphasis on distressed properties to create stable housing options. Key projects under CA Family Properties include AM Development, a multifamily initiative in the area that exemplifies Avril's approach to revitalizing properties while prioritizing tenant quality and community enhancement. Another notable endeavor is a luxury estate development in , highlighting the firm's expansion into higher-end residential assets. By 2024, Avril directed efforts toward practices, aiming to build vibrant, long-term communities through eco-friendly renovations and value-add strategies amid evolving market trends. Beyond , Avril has diversified his portfolio with stakes in sports-related businesses and tech startups. In 2023, he joined the Ackerley Sports Group (ASG), a private investment platform focused on growth-stage sports technology, teams, and media ventures, partnering alongside other former players. He also invested in Major League Pickleball, acquiring ownership in a team as part of a broader trend among athletes entering emerging sports. Earlier, Avril collaborated with Patricof/Co to evaluate opportunities in startups and commercial properties, leveraging his for vetted deals. Avril's financial strategy centers on converting his NFL career earnings—totaling approximately $48.5 million—into streams via syndications and equity partnerships, ensuring post-playing stability. As of 2025, his is estimated at $10 million, reflecting prudent diversification beyond football. Avril's business philosophy underscores community impact alongside wealth preservation, drawing parallels between teamwork and collaboration to foster enduring value for investors and residents—a perspective he has articulated in interviews emphasizing financial freedom and strategic growth.

Philanthropy and media

Cliff Avril founded the Cliff Avril Family Foundation in March 2014, motivated by the loss of his grandmother and his mother's diagnosis with . The foundation focuses on supporting the educational and health needs of youth locally in and , as well as abroad in , with an emphasis on raising awareness of and promoting healthy living through nutrition and exercise. Since its inception, the foundation has raised over $2.5 million to fund these initiatives, including more than $500,000 invested in for school construction, mobile health clinics, and youth programs. Key philanthropic efforts include annual youth football camps, which Avril has hosted since in Jacksonville for children aged 12-18, providing , , and family fun days to underprivileged kids in the community. The foundation has also organized similar camps in , such as a 2017 event in that engaged local youth in and . In recognition of his community service, Avril was nominated as the ' candidate for the 2016 NFL Man of the Year Award, honoring his work in and outreach. Post-retirement, Avril has expanded his media presence, appearing as a guest on podcasts to discuss life after the NFL, including a 2019 episode of Finding Mastery where he shared insights on purpose and transition. In 2023, he featured on Big Ray's Garage Grind addressing therapy and personal challenges during his career. On Instagram, Avril has posted reels in 2025 reflecting on retirement, family priorities, and mental resilience, amassing engagement from fans on his post-NFL journey. In November 2025, Avril shared reflections on winning and losing cultures in an interview with The Athletic. In broadcasting, Avril served as an analyst for the Seattle Seahawks' 2024 preseason television broadcasts and made occasional radio appearances, including on Brock and Salk and Softy & Dick in 2025 to analyze team performance and preseason developments. He also engages in motivational speaking at corporate events, delivering talks on leadership, team culture, career transitions, and resilience. Avril advocates for mental health awareness among former NFL players, drawing from his experiences with injuries and retirement; he has discussed the benefits of therapy in podcasts and interviews, emphasizing its role in navigating post-career challenges.

References

  1. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AvriCl99.htm
  2. https://findingmastery.com/podcasts/cliff-avril/
  3. https://www.seahawks.com/photos/cliff-avril-through-the-years
  4. https://www.seahawks.com/news/four-seahawks-earn-pro-bowl-honors-including-first-timer-cliff-avril-178671
  5. https://www.nfl.com/players/cliff-avril/
  6. https://www.seahawks.com/news/cliff-avril-named-2020-seahawks-legend-of-the-year
  7. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/bio/_/id/11326/cliff-avril
  8. https://www.espn.com/blog/seattle-seahawks/post/_/id/15670/seahawks-cliff-avril-honors-the-memory-of-his-dad
  9. https://www.si.com/nfl/2018/01/26/cliff-avril-seahawks-charity-work-building-schools-haiti
  10. https://www.seattletimes.com/sports/seahawks/cliff-avril-never-has-haiti-far-from-his-mind-how-did-seahawks-defensive-end-reconnect-with-his-roots/
  11. https://www.jacksonvillememorygardens.com/obituaries/Jean-Samuel-Avril?obId=2426292
  12. https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/sports/nfl/news/i-dont-think-theres-a-finish-line-to-growth-former-nfl-defensive-end-cliff-avril-shares-words-of-wisdom-with-youth-at-spokane-juneteenth-celebration/articleshow/121975362.cms
  13. https://www.nfl.com/news/cliff-avril-on-his-path-from-the-cellar-to-football-s-highest-p-0ap3000000808377
  14. https://www.seahawks.com/news/seahawks-player-q-a-catching-up-with-seahawk-legend-cliff-avril
  15. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/1552578-is-cliff-avril-the-best-nfl-free-agent-no-one-is-talking-about
  16. https://247sports.com/Player/cliff-avril-44960/pro-131962/
  17. https://s3.us-east-2.amazonaws.com/sidearm.nextgen.sites/purduesports.com/documents/2005/7/28/_pur_m_footbl__pur-footbl-05-guide-4.pdf
  18. https://247sports.com/player/cliff-avril-44960/
  19. https://cuse.com/sports/2004/9/5/Purduebox04
  20. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/cliff-avril-1.html
  21. https://purduesports.com/news/2014/02/1/avril-is-a-super-bowl-champ
  22. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/cliff-avril-1/gamelog/2006/
  23. https://www.indystar.com/story/sports/college/purdue/2014/06/27/life-is-good-for-former-purdue-star-cliff-avril/11453615/
  24. https://www.sports-reference.com/cfb/players/cliff-avril-1/gamelog/2007/
  25. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/9049770/cliff-avril-agrees-two-year-deal-seattle-seahawks-according-source
  26. https://www.seahawks.com/news/the-seahawks-best-draft-picks-under-john-schneider-and-pete-carroll-157206
  27. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sea/2013.htm
  28. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201402020den.htm
  29. https://50.seahawks.com/players/cliff-avril
  30. https://bleacherreport.com/articles/2752036-pete-carroll-kam-chancellor-cliff-avril-to-have-hard-time-playing-again
  31. https://www.seahawks.com/news/seahawks-release-defensive-end-cliff-avril-with-failed-physical-designation
  32. https://www.espn.com/nfl/story/_/id/23405922/cliff-avril-released-seattle-seahawks-failed-physical-designation
  33. https://www.nfl.com/news/seahawks-sign-cliff-avril-to-4-year-28-5m-extension-0ap3000000445908
  34. https://www.spotrac.com/nfl/player/_/id/3259/cliff-avril
  35. https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/490386/2018/09/05/who-is-cliff-avril-without-football/
  36. https://mynorthwest.com/the-reset-podcast/cliff-avril-leaving-football-behind-transition-into-retirement-some-of-your-darkest-moments/3989544
  37. https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/stats/_/id/11326/cliff-avril
  38. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/sacks_career.htm
  39. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/players/A/AvriCl99/gamelog/post/
  40. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/boxscores/201201070nor.htm
  41. https://www.seahawks.com/news/on-this-date-cliff-avril-signed-in-free-agency-153736
  42. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/leaders/sacks_career_playoffs.htm
  43. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/det/2011.htm
  44. https://www.fantasypros.com/nfl/stats/dst.php?year=2011
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  46. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sea/2016.htm
  47. https://www.pro-football-reference.com/teams/sea/2015.htm
  48. https://www.nfl.com/news/seattle-seahawks-part-ways-with-pass-rusher-cliff-avril-0ap3000000931609
  49. https://www.espn.com/blog/seattle-seahawks/post/_/id/23816/richard-sherman-cliff-avril-among-four-seahawks-to-make-the-pro-bowl
  50. https://www.nfl.com/news/nfl-announces-2017-pro-bowl-rosters-0ap3000000760503
  51. https://www.nfl.com/news/walter-payton-nfl-man-of-the-year-award-nominees-revealed-0ap3000000752904
  52. https://www.nfl.com/photos/mind-blowing-stats-for-the-top-100-players-of-2017-60-51-0ap3000000810034
  53. https://cafamilyproperties.com/about/
  54. https://www.seahawks.com/video/legends-spotlight-cliff-avril
  55. https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/super-bowl-champ-to-real-estate-mogul-cliff-avril/id1580397502?i=1000677344921
  56. https://www.sportsbusinessjournal.com/Articles/2023/12/08/ackerley-sports-group-tech-platform/
  57. https://thesportsrush.com/nfl-news-10000000-worth-cliff-avril-joins-tom-brady-drew-brees-other-veterans-in-the-owners-club-by-investing-big-in-pickleball/
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  60. https://www.celebritynetworth.com/richest-athletes/nfl/cliff-avril-net-worth/
  61. https://passiveincomepilots.com/episode/61-nfl-defensive-legend-cliff-avril-crushing-real-estate-after-crushing-qbs
  62. https://cliffavrilfamilyfoundation.org/
  63. https://www.seahawks.com/news/cliff-avril-partners-with-safeway-to-give-back-to-seattle-families-in-need
  64. https://www.guidestar.org/profile/46-5074297
  65. https://rewards.bing.com/redeem/000500000533
  66. https://5a431530d6.nxcli.net/funds-invested/
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  68. https://www.news4jax.com/positively-jax/2024/05/29/clay-high-standout-and-super-bowl-alum-gives-back-to-community-with-youth-football-camp/
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  73. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=cpmCwLNmWDE
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  79. https://950kjr.iheart.com/featured/dave-softy-mahler/content/2025-08-05-59-softy-dick-interviews-cliff-avril-joins-softy-and-jackson/
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  81. https://www.instagram.com/reel/DN0yKC-Ygzs/
  82. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=MhgZKgplm8E
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  84. https://www.seahawks.com/audio/podcasts/big-rays-garage-grind-mental-health-edition/
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