Take it away, Aaron Wilson:

The Texans have been involved and in on Ed Reed since the start of free agency, notsudden development, per sources — Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) March 14, 2013

Texans have made an extremely strong bid to woo Ed Reed. Whether a quick deal happens remains unclear, but they are off to a strong start — Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) March 14, 2013

Sources emphasize that the 49ers are actually a legit contender for Ed Reed should the Texans visit not lead to a fast deal. — Aaron Wilson (@RavensInsider) March 14, 2013

Wilson gives more details in his latest piece for the Baltimore Sun:

The Texans have a reputation for being closers and have the advantage of employing wide receiver Andre Johnson, one of Reed's closest friends from the University of Miami. A Louisiana native, Reed emphasized during the Super Bowl week that he's interested in playing in the South. Reed might not sign with the Texans immediately necessarily even though they've made an impressive contract offer already, according to sources.

If all of this is true (and there's no reason to believe it isn't; Wilson is as plugged into the Ravens as any media member out there), the Texans' decision to let Glover Quin walk could begin to look positively shrewd. Close this one, Rick.