Originally published Saturday, July 25, 2009 at 12:00 AM

Seahawks sign third-round pick Deon Butler

Rookie out of Penn State will compete for playing time at split end

Seattle Times staff reporter

Deon Butler's reputation for speed includes his contract status.

The Seahawks' third-round pick signed a four-year contract, the team announced Friday. He receives a signing bonus of $680,750. The maximum value of the contract is slightly under $3.2 million.

Butler is the highest draft pick to sign with Seattle this year, and he will be on the field when training camp begins on July 31. Butler is expected to compete for playing time at split end where Nate Burleson is the starter. Coach Jim Mora has also indicated the Seahawks will take a look at Butler as a punt returner.

Seattle traded up to pick Butler this year, giving up fifth- and seventh-round picks in 2009 and a third-round choice in next year's draft to choose Butler. Butler is from Penn State, where he broke Bobby Engram's record for career receptions.

The only Seahawks draft picks who remain unsigned are first-round choice Aaron Curry, a linebacker, and second-round Max Unger, an offensive lineman.

Danny O'Neil: 206-464-2364 or doneil@seattletimes.com

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