It was the Lions' situation that had changed as Detroit agreed to re-sign linebacker Stephen Tulloch to a five-year deal on Tuesday, which complicated things to say the least.

Linebacker was one position where the free-agent market had yet to truly define itself.

Hawthorne was one of a trio of starters with impressive resumes who were available. Tulloch and Curtis Lofton of Atlanta were the other two.

They've all been waiting to see what happens in the market place, knowing that Jon Beason signed a six-year, $51.3 million contract with Carolina last year.

The fact the Falcons signed Lofa Tatupu before free agency began was one sign Atlanta was guarding itself against the possible loss of Lofton. The Saints had looked at both Lofton and Hawthorne, showing there might be some uncertainty on the Saints' part over linebacker Jonathan Vilma's availability.

Then there was Detroit, which wanted Tulloch back and got him as the Lions were bringing Hawthorne in for a visit.

So what happens now?

We'll have to wait and see. Hawthorne has led Seattle in tackles each of the past three years, but right now, the market for free-agent linebackers looks to be a little softer than some expected.

Update at 4:15 p.m.: That linebacker market? Well, things are starting to move with multiple reports the Philadelphia Eagles are acquiring Houston Texans lienbacker DeMeco Ryans in exchange for a mid-round pick.