Patriots sign Baylor CB Andrews

The Patriots signed seventh-round draft choice Willie Andrews, a cornerback/kick returner from Baylor, to a four-year contract yesterday. The team also agreed to terms with offensive lineman Dan Stevenson, a sixth-round pick out of Notre Dame, on a four-year deal that requires some tweaking.

According to the NFL Players Association, Andrews's deal is worth $1.65 million and includes a $46,500 signing bonus. The deal could be worth slightly more if Andrews reaches playing-time incentives.

Andrews, selected 229th overall, worked as a cornerback and kickoff and punt returner at the Patriots' mandatory minicamp in June. He holds Baylor records for kickoff returns (67), kickoff return yards (1,647), and punt return yards (949). The 5-foot-10-inch, 193-pound Andrews is a candidate to replace Bethel Johnson (now with the Saints) and Tim Dwight (Jets) as the team's primary return man.

Stevenson (6-5, 300), who played for former Patriots assistant coach Charlie Weis last season, was the 205th overall pick. Stevenson primarily plays guard but could add depth at center. Weis has compared him to former Patriots guard Joe Andruzzi.

MIKE REISS