Lions hoping to re-sign Chris Houston to three-year deal?

Cornerback Chris Houston was reportedly offered a contract by the Detroit Lions during the three-day negotiating period, but he declined to immediately accept it. Instead, he opted to test free agency in hopes of increasing his value. So far, Houston hasn't set up any visits, but he is reportedly drawing some interest from the New England Patriots.

It would be a big blow to the Lions' secondary if they lose Houston, but they are working to make sure that doesn't happen, according to Yahoo! Sports' Jason Cole.

CB Chris Houston and DET trying to work out a 3-yr deal

— Jason Cole (@JasonColeYahoo) March 13, 2013

Houston may not necessarily be a true No. 1 cornerback, but he is the Lions' top cornerback by a wide margin. Re-signing him and adding a safety like Glover Quin would put the Lions' secondary in pretty good shape going into the draft, so hopefully they will be able to work something out.

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• Glover Quin to visit Lions