Basically a week after rumors about a trade involving Antonio Cromartie came to the forefront, the Lions are once again at the center of a report about acquiring a cornerback. This time the rumors focus on Atlanta Falcons cornerback Chris Houston, who is about to be traded to the Lions, according to Adam Schefter. This actually appears to be more than just a rumor considering Schefter said the trade is "expected to be completed Monday," but nothing is official quite yet.
If the trade does happen, Houston would be sent to Detroit for a sixth-round pick as well as a swap of fifth-rounders. All picks involved are for the 2010 draft, and below is an exact look at what each team would get.
Lions receive:
CB Chris Houston
18th pick of the fifth-round
Falcons receive:
2nd pick of the fifth-round
2nd pick of the sixth-round
This trade would have a pretty big effect on the final day of the draft for the Lions because they would lose a pick and move down in the fifth round. Even so, the Lions are in desperate need for cornerbacks, and when you consider that Chris Houston has started in 37 games in three seasons, I'd say it's worth it. From the Falcons' point of view, Houston became expendable with the signing of Dunta Robinson, who the Lions "pursued," per Adam Schefter. Also from the Falcons' perspective is this quick evaluation of Houston from Dave the Falconer of SB Nation's The Falcoholic.
For the price, you’re getting an awesome bargain. Houston has underachieved during his time in Atlanta and the rumors you heard about him not turning his head in coverage are true. But the physical tools are all there, and maybe a change of scenery will fix everything for you.
Houston brings a lot of positives to the table. He has starting experience, pretty good stats, and great speed. Besides that, he's an upgrade over anyone currently on the roster, so if this deal does in fact become official on Monday, then I will be pretty happy with it.