NFL Rumors: Free-Agent Options for Philadelphia Eagles to Replace Jason Peters

The Philadelphia Eagles announced Friday that left tackle Jason Peters has ruptured his Achilles' tendon while training this offseason and will miss at least nine to 12 months. 

According to Robert Klemko of USA Today, Peters is scheduled to undergo surgery on the tendon on April 2, which—looking at the injury timeline—puts his 2012 season in serious jeopardy.

A five-time Pro Bowler, Peters finished the 2011 season as the No. 1 overall offensive tackle, according to Pro Football Focus. 

Eagles coach Andy Reid told Klemko he and general manager Howie Roseman would look at free agency for potential replacement options.

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"(General manager) Howie (Roseman) and I will sort out the roster situation for the offensive line. We are glad to have King back as a part of our offensive line and we will continue to scan the free agent market, also knowing the draft is less than a month away."

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The pickings are getting slim on the free-agent market, but here are a couple names the Eagles could look at to help replace Peters.

Demetrius Bell

According to Howard Eskin of NBC 10 in Philadelphia, the Eagles already have a visit lined up with the former Buffalo Bills starting left tackle.

While he's battled injuries of his own, Bell has started 30 career games and would represent a smart Band-Aid option until Peters comes back in 2013. 

Marcus McNeill

McNeill was cut from San Diego partly due to the fact that he's been injury prone over the last two years. But the Eagles could certainly give McNeill a chance to prove he can stay healthy and win the job on the left side.

Remember, McNeill isn't far off from the days when many considered him a top left tackle. 

Barry Richardson

He's been one of the NFL's poorest tackles the last two years, but Richardson is still just 25 years old and could use a change of scenery.

While no one should expect him to be the ultimate answer, Richardson might be worth a roster invite to see if offensive line coach Howard Mudd can get anything out of the youngster.