Cornerback Cortland Finnegan and Lions coach Jim Schwartz have a history. Finnegan played for the Tennessee Titans when Schwartz was the defensive coordinator. So it’s a natural progression to wonder if Finnegan, a free agent, will be wooed by the Lions who have needs in the defensive backfield.

According to reports from the NFL Combine in Indianapolis, Schwartz would not say if the Lions are interested. But he also didn’t dismiss the suggestion when he addressed the media on Thursday.

The Lions have a cap situation with about $11 million available. If they slap Cliff Avril with the franchise tag it would eat up most of that. The cap number is a fluid situation, but it could be tough for the Lions to find a way to sign Finnegan. In other words, don’t get too excited.

Free agency opens at 4 p.m. on March 13.

(Follow @PaulaPasche on Twitter. Get Lions news delivered directly to your phone by texting the keyword "Lions" to 22700. Msg & Data Rates May Apply. Text HELP for help. Text STOP to cancel.)