August 27, 2011; San Francisco, CA, USA; Houston Texans offensive tackle Eric Winston (73) stands on the sidelines during the third quarter against the San Francisco 49ers at Candlestick Park. The Texans defeated the 49ers 30-7. Mandatory Credit: Kyle Terada-US PRESSWIRE

Free agent right tackle Eric Winston was set to visit the Lions on Monday but that won’t happen now. The Kansas City Chiefs pursued Winston heavily and the two sides have agreed to a contract.

Eric Winston never made it to St. Louis yesterday after it was previously reported that he would do so. That probably should have been taken as a bad sign for everyone courting him except for the Chiefs.

The nature of the Lions interest in Winston is not obvious. They may have been looking at a simple talent upgrade since Winston is one of the best right tackles in the game, although some have speculated that the Lions could have been looking at him as a left tackle to replace Jeff Backus.

Still, the Lions have other free agent options along the offensive line. Geoff Schwartz tweeted positive things about his visit yesterday and Marcus McNeill was also in for a visit on Friday. Schwartz can play guard or tackle while McNeill appears to only be an option if the team does not re-sign Jeff Backus. (update: the Lions have re-signed Backus)

Like what you see? Give SideLion Report a “like” on facebook, become a follower on twitter, or grab ourRSS feed.

Credit: Brett Davis-US PRESSWIRE

Free agent right tackle Eric Winston scheduled free agent visits with at least four teams but it looked liek he might never got past visit number one. Rumors circulated that the Chiefs and Winston could be on the verge of a deal but it hasn’t happened yet.

The Kansas City Chiefs are still a significant threat to the Lions’ chances of landing Winston. Alex Marvez of FOX Sports reports that the Lions visit will take place on Monday but a very important “if statement” is necessary:

Eric Winston heading to #Lions for a Monday visit if deal doesn’t get done today with the #Chiefs. My #FOXSports.com story coming asap

— Alex Marvez (@alexmarvez) March 17, 2012

The Lions still have opportunities to add to their offensive line through free agency thanks to visits from Geoff Schwartz, formerly of the Panthers, and former Chargers tackle Marcus McNeill. Not much has leaked out regarding the Lions’ standing with Jeff Backus although Chris McCosky of the Detroit News speculates the lack of action could be an indication that the two sides could split ways.

Like what you see? Give SideLion Report a “like” on facebook, become a follower on twitter, or grab ourRSS feed.