Just hours before the NFL’s free agency period kicks off, Detroit has dropped in with a trade that lays the foundation for the rest of their off-season, trading for Cleveland defensive tackle Corey Williams.

According to ESPN’s Chris Mortensen, the Lions will likely acquire Williams for a low round draft pick and will allow him to return to his more natural role as a penetrating tackle a la Warren Sapp or Albert Haynesworth. The deal is not final, but seems to be close to its conclusion, with both teams motivated to get things done.

Trading for Williams will give Detroit the freedom to use their #2 overall pick on Nebraska defensive tackle Ndamukong Suh, who is seen as the more versatile player available on the defensive line. Having both Suh and Williams manning the interior will drastically improve the Lions defense, especially if they can couple those moves with a few solid free agent signings.