The New England Patriots announced the signing of sixth-round center Ted Larsen.

Larsen is the first of the Patriots' 12 draft choices to sign a contract, and is the sixth member of the 2010 NFL Draft class to sign. Terms were not disclosed.

Chosen with the 205th overall pick in the 2010 NFL Draft, Larsen (6-3, 305) began his college career at North Carolina State as a defensive tackle, totaling 21 tackles, including 5.5 for a loss, and 4 quarterbacks sacks as a part-time starter.

Larsen converted to center before his junior season, starting 25 games over his final two seasons. Larsen was credited with 185 "knockdown" blocks, with 19 resulting in touchdowns, and with allowing 6.5 quarterback sacks. Larsen is very much a developmental prospect, but will compete for a backup job behind starter Dan Koppen.

The Patriots also announced the release of veteran cornerback Shawn Springs.