WASHINGTON, May 8 (Xinhua) -- Offensive lineman Steve Franklin and defensive back Steve Gregory signed free-agent contracts with NFL teams, according to reports from Syracuse.

    Franklin, a former Syracuse player, signed with the Kansas CityChiefs, while Gregory, also a former Syracuse player, agreed to terms with the San Diego Chargers.

    Franklin started 34 of the 35 games he played in at Syracuse. As a junior he was part of the offensive line that blocked for running backs Walter Reyes and Damien Rhodes, who that season became the first tandem in school history to each run for at least800 yards.

    Franklin will join three other former Syracuse players currently on the Chiefs roster: running back Dee Brown, offensive tackle Kevin Sampson and linebacker Rich Scanlon.

    Gregory, who also returned kicks at Syracuse but was hampered by injuries, was named All-Big East as a freshman when he led the nation with 21 passes defended. Enditem