1st Rounder, Lawson Signs

[Dr. Duran Duran]

SANTA CLARA, Calif. (July 28, 2006) -- The San Francisco 49ers signed defensive end Manny Lawson, getting one of their two first-round draft picks under contract on the eve of training camp.

Terms of the deal weren't immediately available.

Lawson, who played alongside No. 1 overall pick Mario Williams at North Carolina State, was the 22nd overall pick. He could be a starter on the 49ers' defense, which finished last season ranked 32nd -- dead last -- in the NFL.

The 49ers chose Maryland tight end Vernon Davis with the sixth pick, but still haven't reached a deal. San Francisco opens camp at its training complex on July 28.