Eagles ink five free agents on first day

Chung, who spent the last four seasons in New England, played under Chip Kelly at Oregon.

The Eagles didn’t plunge into the start of NFL free agency with a splash this time. Maybe they learned their lesson from two “dream” seasons ago.

Anyway, the team did begin by making a few interesting moves — or, perhaps more aptly — by filling a few voids.

The Eagles signed TE James Casey, CB Bradley Fletcher, LB Jason Phillips, S Patrick Chung and DT Isaac Sopoaga.

The two biggest areas of concern were along the defensive line and in the secondary.

Fletcher is considered a physical corner, listed at 6-foot, 200 pounds, and could compete for a starting spot with the release of Nnamdi Asomugha. Chung, who started 29 games in four years with New England, will spice up the safety competition. He played at Oregon when Eagles coach Chip Kelly was an assistant.

Perhaps the most intriguing signing is Sopoaga, who has been on the Eagles’ radar for the past few weeks. He’s a veteran nose tackle with a reputation as a run-stuffer, a perfect fit for the presumed switch to a 3-4 defense.

There could be other moves in the works, too. The Eagles are reportedly finalists to land the services of safety Dashon Goldson and cornerback Sean Smith. They have also shown interest in safety Laron Landry.

As always, stay tuned.