Hawks sign tight end Michael Palmer

From Seahawks.com writer Clare Farnsworth

SEATTLE -- The competition for the backup tight end spot just increased by one as the Seahawks signed Michael Palmer today.

Michael Palmer (From Seahawks.com)

Rookie defensive back Ray Polk was released to clear a spot on the 90-man roster.

The 6-foot-5, 252-pound Palmer caught 21 passes for 123 yards and three touchdowns the past three seasons with the Falcons – including 10 catches for 72 yards in 2011. He signed with the Giants on May 12, but was released on May 29.

While Zach Miller is established as the starting tight end, incumbent backup Anthony McCoy tore an Achilles tendon during an OTA workout in May. That left rookie Luke Willson and second-year tight end Sean McGrath as the leading candidates for the No. 2 and No. 3 spots at the position on the 53-man roster.

The players will report for training camp Wednesday, when they take their physicals. The first practice is scheduled for Thursday morning.