Seattle Signs DE Tavaris Barnes and TE Brandon Williams

RENTON, Wash. (AP) — The Seattle Seahawks have signed defensive end Tavaris Barnes and tight end Brandon Williams ahead of the NFL draft.

Seattle announced the signings on Thursday before the start of the draft. Seattle also released quarterback Phillip Sims from its roster.

Branes played in 12 games last season with New Orleans after signing as an undrafted free agent. He had five tackles in limited action before being released by the Saints earlier this week.

Williams has appeared in 29 career games with Carolina and Miami, but has just four career catches for 44 yards. He became a free agent in March.