OXNARD, Calif. -- The Dallas Cowboys intend to fill one of their four roster openings once they get to California with veteran offensive tackle Demetress Bell, according to a source.

Bell, who started five games last year in Philadelphia, would have to pass a physical before the deal becomes official.

He signed a five-year deal with the Eagles last year worth nearly $35 million but was released in February in a salary-cap move. The Cowboys had been in contact with Bell's agent as they worked through Doug Free's pay cut earlier in the spring and finally came to an agreement.

Bell, 6-foot-5 and 311 pounds, gives the Cowboys a veteran option as a backup at either tackle spot. He started 35 of the 40 games he played for Buffalo and Philadelphia. Free, who will earn $3.5 million this year, and Jermey Parnell will compete for Dallas' starting right tackle spot opposite Tyron Smith.