James

Marten

A solid risk for a team that can use depth. Marten was an upside prospect coming out in 2007 and has the athleticism needed to play in Oakland’s zone blocking scheme. He can’t be a much worse bet than Mario Henderson.

This is somewhat surprising, as Marten was one of the top athletes in the draft among offensive linemen. The Boston College product could push Marc Colombo for a starting job in 2008. Doug Free is backing up on the left side.

Marten signed following the Cowboys first practice. General Manager Jerry Jones said the delay will cost the young tackle as the club’s rookie pool money has been spent. Marten will have a chance to play immediately with right tackle Marc Colombo recovering from recent arthroscopic knee surgery.

Marten, the Cowboys’ third-round pick in 2007, gets the boot to make room for wide receiver Mike Jefferson.

The former third-round pick from Boston College has been a disappointment in three NFL seasons. He probably won’t play much in the final three games, and will have to impress during the offseason to make the 2010 roster.

An aggressive and excellent move on free agency eve. Adams is 33 before the season, but is still Dallas’ most reliable pass protector. 2007 third-round pick James Marten showed little in practice as a rookie and Doug Free projects better as a right tackle. Adams is always an injury risk, but coming off a Pro Bowl season and should have at least two strong years left.

Marten played the position in college for two years and is likely to be a swing man behind right tackle Marc Colombo and left guard Kyle Kosier.

The B.C. Eagles have a long track record of productive offensive linemen. Marten will compete to eventually replace Marc Colombo at right tackle.

Chicago gave the 6-foot-7, 309-pound Marten a look at guard in camp, and hopes to retain him on the practice squad. He didn’t beat out Johan Asiata.

Both finished the season on Miami’s practice squad. Brandstater, 26, doesn’t project as more than a long-term No. 2, but the Fins need live arms for the offseason as they continue to evaluate a clearly problematic position.