ALLEN PARK - Remember all the chatter about Colorado cornerback Jimmy Smith during the draft? He was one of the most promising, most athletic corners available but was downgraded because of his off-the-field issues.

Well, that was Eric Wright in 2007. The very physical and athletically gifted Wright was a first-rounder, but personal issues pushed him down to the 53rd overall pick where the Cleveland Browns took him in the second round. Wright had enrolled at USC, but legal problems, including drug allegations, forced his transfer to UNLV.

After four years in Cleveland - in which he started every year - the Detroit Lions signed him to a one-year free agent contract and he is expected to step immediately in a starting role.

In a sense, Wright is trying to rebound again. He was considered a solid up-and-comer with the Browns, returning an interception 94 yards for a touchdown three years ago. Two years ago, he had a career high four interceptions.

Last year was supposed to be "the'' year. It was the final year of his contract and he was looking for the big day, but it never came. He struggled at points throughout the season and finished with his one interception and then suffered a knee injury late in the year.

Despite those troubles, the Browns wanted to hang on to him - although he might have had to accept a backup role.

If Wright can bounce back from his troubled season last year, the Lions will have cashed in with this free agent pickup. If he doesn't, the Lions' search for cornerbacks will continue.