The New England Patriots signed their first-round pick, defensive tackle Ty Warren, on Monday, along with seven other rookies.

ESPN's John Clayton reported Sunday that Warren's deal was for six years and could be worth as much as $21 million. A signing bonus and a 2004 option bonus that totals more than $6 million also are included in the deal.

Clayton also reported that the contract includes around $7 million in escalators, more than three-quarters of which are obtainable by playing time and the remainder achievable by Pro Bowl appearances.

The signing assures that Warren, who played at Texas A&M, will be in training camp when it begins on Wednesday.

Warren is projected to be a starting defensive end in the Patriots' 3-4 defense. He was the 13th player selected in the draft in what was considered the best defensive-line draft in recent NFL history.

The Patriots also signed their two second-round choices, defensive back Eugene Wilson and wide receiver Bethel Johnson; center Dan Koppen, the fifth round pick; quarterback Kliff Kingsbury, the sixth-rounder; and tight end Spencer Nead and defensive end Tully Banta-Cain, two of their three seventh-rounders. The team also re-signed offensive lineman Matt Knutson and released three players: guard Dave Petruziello, wide receiver Kerry Watkins and running back Derek Watson.