PHILADELPHIA — The Philadelphia Eagles have signed free-agent cornerback Asante Samuel.

The Eagles agreed to a six-year contract today with Samuel, who spent the last five seasons with New England and had 16 interceptions the last two years.

Samuel also tied the NFL career playoff record with three interceptions returned for TDs

Philadelphia had only 11 interceptions last year and failed to score a defensive touchdown. Its defense had an NFL-worst 19 takeaways.

The Eagles will likely trade or shift positions for either Lito Sheppard or Sheldon Brown.

Samuel, a two-time Pro Bowl selection with two Super Bowl rings, has 22 career interceptions. He was protected by New England last year by the franchise player tag.