ALLEN PARK, Mich. -- 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.
Backus was drafted 18th overall by the Lions in 2001 and has played and started in 80 consecutive games at right tackle since joining the team.
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