Eagles Check Out USC Guard/Center

Offensive line depth is an area the Eagles need to address in May.

The starters seem set, although it’s possible the team takes a chance on a starting-caliber guard. There’s no question Lane Johnson, Jason Peters and Jason Kelce will be starters in 2014 (barring injury).

One prospect who appears to be on the Eagles’ radar is USC guard/center Marcus Martin. Martin has taken an official visit to Philadelphia, per Aaron Wilson of the National Football Post.

The 6-3, 320-pounder started 35 games in three years at USC. He played guard during his first two seasons before moving to center. He suffered a knee injury in late November and missed the team’s bowl game. That could be one of the reasons the Eagles want to take a closer look at him.

Martin has 34-inch arms. Per NFL.com, he’s expected to be a second- or third-round pick.

Evan Mathis turns 33 in November, but played at a high level in 2013. Todd Herremans turns 32 in October and showed some inconsistencies last season. Allen Barbre was the team’s primary backup at guard.

Martin, or another player with a similar skill set, would provide the Eagles with a backup center (Julian Vandervelde filled that role last year) and some youth at guard. Chip Kelly values positional versatility, especially among his backups.

Martin is a young prospect. He doesn’t turn 21 until November.