Linebacker Antwan Applewhite signed a one-year contract today. As an exclusive rights free agent, Applewhite will earn $470,000 for the 2010 season. 

Applewhite played in just one game in 2009, injuring his hamstring early in the season-opener at Oakland. He was deactivated for the next four games and placed on “Reserve-Injured” Oct. 20.

Applewhite’s signing leaves the Chargers with five unsigned restricted free agents. They include WR Vincent Jackson, WR Malcom Floyd, T Marcus McNeill, LB Shawne Merriman and DE Travis Johnson. Even though Merriman and Johnson have not signed, both are participating in the team’s offseason strength and conditioning program.