FOXBORO -- In two of the past three seasons, the Patriots' forays into free agency have been delayed by the team's advancement deep into the playoffs.

But this year, Scott Pioli and the personnel department are wasting no time in planning for the future.

With 11 days remaining before their first playoff game, the Patriots announced the signing of four free agents -- including the former starting quarterback of the Baltimore Ravens -- to ``future'' contracts that won't take effect until the NFL roster limit expands to 80 players after Super Bowl XXXIX.

The Patriots announced the signings of quarterback Chris Redman, offensive tackle Jeff Roehl, wide receiver Jake Schifino and tight end Joel Jacobs on Thursday. Subsequently, Jacobs was added to the 2005 allotment list for NFL Europe.

Colvin honored Outside linebacker Rosevelt Colvin has been selected by his Patriots teammates as the recipient of this year's Ed Block Courage Award, annually presented to the player who best exemplifies the principles of sportsmanship and courage. Colvin and 31 other NFL team recipients will be presented their awards in March at the 27th Annual Ed Block Courage Award Banquet in Baltimore.