The Redskins signed former second-round defensive end Phillip Merling to a futures deal on Tuesday, along with five other players.

Merling, who was cut by the Miami Dolphins after four disappointing seasons, most recently played for the Green Bay Packers and was then cut in October of the 2012 season. Merling has spent his career playing in a 3-4 scheme and could provide depth to a Redskins defensive line that lost starter Adam Carriker early in the season.

In 2010, Merling suffered a torn achilles, and since then has struggled to see the field for playing time. Over the past three seasons, Merling has tallied seven tackles.

In addition to Merling, the Redskins also signed tight end Deangelo Peterson, fullback Eric Kettani, nose tackle Chigbo Anunoby, defensive lineman Dominique Hamilton and cornerback Korey Lindsey.