James Casey

After a career year in his final season Houston in 2012 (34 catches for 330 yards and three scores), Casey took his talents to Lincoln Financial Field in Philadephia, only to see his role shrink drastically, procuring a mere three receptions for 31 yards in 15 games in 2013. With Brent Celek the primary receiving tight end and sophomore Zach Ertz representing the future at the position for the Eagles, the 29-year-old Casey will have a difficult time cracking the regular rotation.

Casey has the ability to catch passes from the TE spot and out of the backfield. He could be an intriguing pass-catching option for new Eagles coach Chip Kelly.

Casey made the complete transition to full back in 2011, beginning the season as the team's starter before suffering an injury mid-season. At that point, Lawrence Vickers took over and stayed there even when Casey was healthy again. The team loves his work ethic and IQ, but there are fullbacks out there that block better than Casey. Even though Vickers left in free agency, Casey is not a lock as the starter. Moran Norris was brought in during the offseason and the two will vie for the job.

Casey will get the first crack at the starting fullback job after Vonta Leach left in free agency for Baltimore. For the past two seasons, Casey's been blocked from serious playing time at a crowded tight end spot. As a receiver by trade, he has pass-catching ability and the Texans utilize their fullback in the passing game as much as any team. It all comes to down to how Casey handles blocking assignments. Houston added a little competition for Casey in the form of Lawrence Vickers, a veteran who's played the last five seasons with the Browns.

Casey enters preseason the lone healthy and experienced tight end on the roster, but he wasn't a big factor on offense in 2009. He strained a hamstring during organized team activities, but will be ready to go by training camp. He has a lot to learn if he's going to gain a bigger role -- and needs to work on his blocking -- but his value depends on the recovery of Owen Daniels (knee) and Joel Dreessen (shoulder, ankle).

The Texans like Casey's athleticism and vow to find a spot for him on the field. He's played a few positions in college, including quarterback, but he lined up at tight end in organized team activities and is a lock to be a regular on special teams. He'll need to work on his blocking, before he can showcase some of his skills as a pass-catcher and runner.