The Redskins have signed second-year safety Justin Hamilton, the team announced on Friday.

To make room for Hamilton on the roster, the Redskins released defensive back Stephen Tate, an undrafted rookie.

Hamilton, 6-3 and 222 pounds, played the 2006 season with the Cleveland Browns, totaling 15 tackles (13 solo) during his rookie season.

Hamilton was released by the Browns on Sept. 1, 2007, and did not play last season.

He was originally a seventh-round draft choice by the Browns in 2006.

Hamilton played four seasons at Virginia Tech from 2002-05. He split time between running back and wide receiver, before moving to safety permanently during his senior season.

As a senior in 2005, Hamilton posted 35 tackles and three interceptions.

Hamilton grew up in Clintwood, Va., located in the western part of the state. He attended Clintwood High School.

Hamilton is expected to be on hand as the Redskins resume OTAs on June 2.