Saints DL Anthony Hargrove, a restricted free agent, will visit with the Lions. (Paul Spinelli / Associated Press)

Just heard from to a league source that restricted free-agent DL Anthony Hargrove is traveling to Detroit on Monday for a visit with the Lions.

Hargrove, who had a strong season after being suspended in 2008, is a rare restricted free agent to make a visit this offseason. He can play tackle or end and was also a valuable performer on special teams for the champion Saints.

Hargrove would require a third-round pick as compensation, and New Orleans would have a week to match any offer sheet. If the Lions were to act on Hargrove, it could be a sign that they may well take a left tackle second overall, rather than draft one of the highly touted DT prospects, Ndamukong Suh or Gerald McCoy.

Hargrove has overcome addiction and other past problems to become one of the Saints’ most popular players in the locker room and among the coaches. He is scheduled to spend Tuesday with Lions officials.

Posted in: Jason La Canfora  | comments  |