Report: Former Steelers Draftees Caught In Ohio State / Jim Tressel Scandal

Steelers 2010 draft picks Thaddeus Gibson and Doug Worthington were among those mentioned in a Sports Illustrated story about alleged dishonest activity by Ohio State coach Jim Tressel:

The former employee, who worked for Rife from the fall of 2008 until last summer, agreed to speak to SI on condition that he remain anonymous; he fears that Rife or one of his associates will seek retribution for his disclosures. He will be referred to in this story by the pseudonym Ellis.

Among those whose Ohio State careers ended after the 2009 season, Rose, Small, defensive end Thaddeus Gibson, running back Jermil Martin, wide receiver Lamaar Thomas and defensive lineman Doug Worthington made trades or sold memorabilia before their eligibility expired, according to Ellis. Gibson, now with the 49ers, and Worthington, now with the Buccaneers, declined comment through their agent.

Gibson and Worthington were Steelers draft picks in 2010 but are now both with other teams. Higher-profile Steelers draftees from Ohio State, such as 2009 Super Bowl MVP Santonio Holmes and 2011 first-round pick Cameron Heyward, are not mentioned in the article.

This isn't a blog about Ohio State, but the story is an interesting read about the apparent contradictions in Tressel's character.