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Though his stats might not have shown it, Chris Worley has been an invaluable member of the Ohio State football program for the past five years. And now, he will get his chance to impact the Cincinnati Bengals, as the team reportedly signed him as an undrafted free agent, following the final round of the 2018 NFL Draft. The LB will joining OSU teammates Billy Price and Sam Hubbard who were drafted by the Bengals.
Free Agent Alert: @TheRealJizzle35 ➡️ @Bengals #GoBucks #DevelopedHere #WhoDey pic.twitter.com/5gXh3gTcNO
— Ohio State Football (@OhioStateFB) April 28, 2018
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The 2018 NFL Draft is officially in the books! Seven former Buckeyes were selected, and a handful of others signed as undrafted free agents, or agreed to minicamp tryouts. We’ve got all of the information that you need from the busy three days of the draft. Get all of the information and player profiles HERE.
A captain and two-time All-Big Ten honorable mention, Worley accounted for 126 tackles during his final two seasons with the Buckeyes; and 11 tackles for loss in his career. The Cleveland Glenville alum played in 50 games for OSU, starting 24. During his senior season, the multi-talented player started at all three LB positions.
As you would expect from such a respected team leader, Worley’s best games came in the biggest moments for the Buckeyes. In his career, he had four double-digit tackle games; two versus Oklahoma, one against Michigan, and one versus Clemson.
Though Worley isn’t the smoothest player on the field, he is a vicious hitter, and a stronger open-field tackler. His excellent technique also allows him to fill running lanes, and he rarely allows broken tackles. Scouts seem to think that his ability to play special teams, as well as LB, could be valuable at the next level.
However, his lack of strength and speed will likely become a factor in the NFL, especially on passing downs. But, his excellent character and outstanding football IQ will be important in trying to stick in the league, whether it is on an active or practice squad roster.
Congratulations to Worley on taking the next step in his football future.