So the Cincinnati Bengals are trying to improve their football team…and image. I’m all for giving the benefit of the doubt to people and most do deserve a second chance, but why in the world would the Bengals go and draft someone that makes the HC say,

“It’s a little bit of a risk, yes,” coach Marvin Lewis said. “There’s a lot of guys who have gone over the last two days with more substantial things hanging over their heads.”

I find it hard to believe that in the fifth round the Bengals couldn’t find a DT where the only thing they’d have to worry about is whether or not he could play football. A lot more deserving kids looking to get drafted then having to reach for someone like this.

The Bengals, reeling from 10 player arrests in a 14-month span in 2006 and 2007, made a surprise move in Shirley. He played only three games last season because of three separate off-field incidents and suspensions.

Ridiculous pick for the Bengals and shows they really don’t want to change what seems like a bad environment in Cincinnati.

He crashed his car into an apartment building Oct. 8 and fled the accident scene. He posted a blood-alcohol level of 0.12 – which is well beyond the state’s 0.08 legal limit, the Associated Press said, and was arrested on suspicion of driving under the influence.

Shirley was suspended from the team for the season, but returned four weeks later when athletic director Thomas Boeh reversed his decision.

Shirley had medical documents that showed a concussion he received days before the crash, according to the Fresno Bee.

His reprieve didn’t last long. Shirley was dismissed from the team almost one month later. He was cited on suspicion of driving with a suspended license and expired tags.

I’m sorry it just makes no sense whatsoever. Nothing worse than to see another brain trust from a professional team talk out their ass. Bad move, bad pick. But that’s just me, guess he’ll fit right in with the Bengals.

Vinnie Iyer at The Sporting News

Shirley, you must be joking. No, it’s true. The Bengals’ fifth-rounder, Fresno State defensive tackle Jason Shirley has an arrest record. Last October, Shirley crashed in his car into an apartment building and was charged with DUI and hit and run. So much for Cincy cleaning up its act after getting rid of Chris Henry.

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