NFL Free Agency: Eagles could sign some under the radar players

A mass exodus of veteran players has left a lot of cap space for the Eagles to play with in free agency. However, while the Eagles are likely to spend quite a bit in free agency, they may also target some role players as well. While names like Devin McCourty, Byron Maxwell and Jason Worilds are getting all the buzz (and rightfully so), there are other players that fit with what the Eagles want to do from a depth standpoint.

Below are six players that could fill roles with the Eagles as under-the-radar signings, much like Chris Maragos and Andrew Gardner last season:

Roy Helu, RB, Washington Redskins (5-11, 215 lbs., Four Seasons)

The Eagles traded LeSean McCoy just days ago, so they are likely looking for ways to replace his production. Helu is an ideal rotational back for Chip Kelly, as he is a quality blocker, an above average receiver, a special teams veteran and has little wear on his tires. Helu could serve as a replacement for Chris Polk if he were to leave as a restricted free agent or serve as a member of a possible four-back unit with Polk, Darren Sproles and a rookie draft pick.

Ed Dickson, TE, Carolina Panthers (6-4, 255 lbs., Five Seasons)

Before you say, "What about Trey Burton?" hear me out. The Eagles kept four tight ends last season and that proved to be a smart move, especially on special teams. Dickson is a former Oregon Duck who played for Chip Kelly and has had some success in the NFL. He won a championship with the Ravens and has been a quality No. 2 tight end throughout his career. He could be a great redzone option for the Eagles as well as a special teams replacement for James Casey.

Denarius Moore, WR, Oakland Raiders (6-0, 190 lbs., Four Seasons)

Depending on what happens with Jeremy Maclin and the rest of the unit, the Eagles need some veterans at the wide receiver position. Moore started his career off hot but has been humbled in recent years. He is likely looking for a one-year "prove it" deal with a solid team. Who wouldn't want to play for a Chip Kelly offense on a one-year deal? Moore has the speed to serve as a big play threat.

Gabe Carimi, OG/OT, Atlanta Falcons (6-7, 316 lbs., Four Seasons)

Carimi was undoubtedly a first-round bust, but somewhat resurrected his career last season in Tampa Bay. While he isn't going to be handed a starting job, he has a better pedigree and natural skills than the likes of Gardner, Matt Tobin and Allen Barbre. With the line in flux, Carimi's youth (turns 27 in June) would be a welcomed presence. He is also a versatile player that can lineup at every position on the line, except for center.

Dan Skuta, OLB/ILB, San Francisco 49ers (6-2, 250 lbs. Six Seasons)

A scheme versatile player with the ability to play all four linebacker positions, Skuta makes a lot of sense as camp competition for the likes of Najee Goode, Emmanuel Acho and Brandon Hepburn. Skuta was signed as a depth linebacker by San Francisco but ended up starting 18 games in two years for the 49ers. He was used mostly as an outside linebacker and was asked to fill-in during Aldon Smith's suspension. He had five sacks last season in an expanded role. He fits the Jason Phillips/Bryan Braman mold.

Sergio Brown, S, Indianapolis Colts (6-2, 217 lbs., Five Seasons)

The Eagles crave size in the secondary and also prefer depth players that are capable of being standouts on special teams. Brown has spent his career making his bones on special teams but recently got some starting experience during the Colts most recent playoff run. Brown is likely to cost very little but serve as a consistent factor in the game's third phase, while providing veteran depth at safety.