Updated

The New England Patriots on Friday signed defensive tackle Marcus Harrison and released defensive back Phillip Adams.

Harrison spent his first three NFL seasons with the Bears after Chicago made the Arkansas product its third-round pick in the 2008 draft. He totaled 55 tackles and three sacks in 37 appearances for the franchise.

The move was necessary after the Pats placed defensive lineman Mike Wright on injured reserve Thursday in the wake of his second concussion in less than a year.

Adams, who was originally signed on September 21 but released on October 8 without appearing in a game, had been signed to the active roster again on Thursday.