Safety Rashad Johnson signed a three-year contract Thursday.

Before the rookies headed home for the remaining time before training camp, the Cardinals made sure to get at least one more of the unsigned draftees under contract.

Third-round selection Rashad Johnson, a free safety, signed a three-year contract Thursday, the sixth of the team's eight picks to come under contract. As usual, the team did not disclose financial terms.

To make room on the roster, the Cardinals released undrafted rookie wide receiver Shane Morales.

Johnson's deal means only the Cardinals' top two selections – running back Beanie Wells and linebacker Cody Brown – are unsigned with players reporting to training camp July 29.

The next pressing order of business is the upcoming deadline for franchised linebacker Karlos Dansby. He must reach an extension in a week – July 15 is the date – or play the 2009 season under a one-year contract. Dansby wouldn't be eligible to sign a new deal until after the season.

Johnson is expected to make an immediate impact on special teams. He may also find a way on to the field on defense, especially with the Cards' possible use of four safety-schemes behind the versatility of starters Adrian Wilson and Antrel Rolle.

General manager Rod Graves has expressed optimism the Cards will be able to get both Brown and Wells under contract prior to the start of camp.

Contact Darren Urban at askdarren@cardinals.nfl.net. Posted 7/9/09.