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Chick Ludwig covers the Cincinnati Bengals. He also writes about his other passions: college football, basketball and golf.Home > Blogs > Chick Ludwig At Large > Archives > 2008 > July > 14 > Entry
3 Bengals rookies agree to deals
SHIRLEY, SHERRY, URRUTIA
REPORTEDLY IN THE FOLD
The Bengals have reportedly agreed to terms on four-year contracts with three rookie draft picks — fifth-round defensive tackle Jason Shirley (Fresno State), sixth-round tight end Matt Sherry (Villanova) and seventh-round wide receiver Mario Urrutia (Louisville).
But the club won’t confirm the deals until the contracts are signed.
The 6-foot-5, 338-pound Shirley is a dominant physical specimen, but a high-risk player because of off-the-field problems.
Shirley went on trial for DUI in June, but the judge declared a mistrial in the case. Shirley is due to be tried again next month.
“I know I’m under a microscope,” Shirley said. “But I know what happened to me at Fresno will soon be behind me. I learned a great deal from it. I feel I became a better man from that situation.”
Sherry (6-4, 255) is a fast-developing receiver with soft hands, and is working hard to improve his blocking.
“My goal is to just keep coming along and get better every day,” Sherry said. “I’m in a good position. I’m behind two veteran guys (Reggie Kelly and Ben Utecht) who are helping me along the way. Every day is another step.”
Urrutia (6-5, 232) is a big target with good speed and hands. He’ll have an opportunity to be a factor in the red zone because he has the size to overpower smaller defensive backs.
“That’s my game,” Urrutia said. “Throw it up, I’m going to go get it. I use my height, my ability and all my strength.”
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