Report: Texans interested in Patriots RFA Butler, would deal 2nd-round pick

Count another team in for the Malcolm Butler sweepstakes.

The Houston Texans have interest in the New England Patriots' restricted free-agent cornerback, and would be willing to trade a second-round pick if a long-term deal can be worked out, Eric Edholm of Yahoo Sports reports.

It remains to be seen whether such an offer would be enough to bring in a player who was tendered at a first-round level heading into the offseason, and there is already some competition for his services.

Among the reported several teams with interest in Butler, the Saints are already scheduled for a visit this week.

Related: Patriots' Malcolm Butler to visit Saints as restricted free agent

The Patriots declining to match an offer sheet the former Super Bowl hero signs with another club would require that team to surrender a first-round pick. A trade under different terms would be possible if Butler first signs his tender.

Butler has emerged as a top-flight cover man over the past two seasons, recording six interceptions and 32 passes defensed while starting all 32 games.

The fit with Houston stems from the void left by the departure of A.J. Bouye, who cashed in on his breakout season with a long-term deal from the Jacksonville Jaguars.