The Providence Journal is reporting that the Pats are talking to veteran cornerback Shawn Springs, who was released by the Redskins in a salary-cap move on Friday.

The number three overall pick in 1997 out of Ohio State, Springs spent the last five seasons in Washington, and was cut in order for the Skins to save more than $6 million against the salary cap.

Springs played in nine games last season, with 36 tackles, one interception and seven passes defensed; there apparently was some talk of having the 6-foot, 207 pounder play some safety.