The Redskins have signed rookie safety Chris Horton, the team announced on Thursday. Horton was the Redskins' seventh-round draft pick in last April's NFL Draft.

To make room for Horton on the roster, the Redskins released safety Justin Hamilton.

Horton, who played college football at UCLA under former Redskins defensive backs coach DeWayne Walker, was the 249th overall selection in the draft.

The 6-1, 216-pounder started every game the past two seasons at UCLA. He finished his college career with 238 tackles (160 solo), three sacks, four interceptions and three forced fumbles.

As a senior last year, Horton finished second on UCLA's defense with 90 tackles (64 solo). In 2006, he led the defense with 95 tackles (64 solo).

Horton grew up in New Orleans.