Patriots Sign Rookie CB Justin Green

The New England Patriots made a minor roster move this afternoon, announcing that they have signed rookie free agent defensive back Justin Green.

Green, who played collegiately for Illinois, began his career as a running back before transitioning to the cornerback position for his final three years.

A former high school track star, Green started 29 games over his final three seasons and was a three time academic All-Big 10 selection. In his senior season for the Illini, Green started 11 games while making 36 tackles and six pass breakups.

A non-combine invite, Green has average size for the position at 5'11" and 195 lbs. His Pro Day numbers were intriguing as he recorded a 4.42 in the 40 yard dash, completed 21 bench press reps, had a long jump of 10'1" and a vertical of 36.5."

Green will be seen as a longshot to make the final roster. His addition brings the Patriots' roster count to 89. The offseason maximum is 90. It remains to be seen if the Patriots will use that final spot before camp opens on Sunday.

For those wondering, there's not much in the way of highlights out there for Green, but there is a Pro Day video of Green from the Illini's YouTube channel: