Ohio State cornerback Chimdi Chekwa had to wait until the third day of the draft to hear his name called by the Oakland Raiders as the 113th overall pick Saturday.
Chekwa was a starter at OSU for three seasons, registering six interceptions and 145 tackles during his career. He was a member of the team for five Big Ten championships.
Chekwa had built momentum going into the draft, with a 4.40-second 40-yard dash at the NFL combine, tied for second-best among corners.
After Chekwa dislocated his wrist in the Sugar Bowl against Arkansas, there was concern about his health heading into the draft.
Chekwa began his career at the nickel position, where he could come in as a fifth defensive back to help the Raiders immediately.
The Raiders ranked second in the NFL for pass yards given up, so Chekwa might have an opportunity to get in the mix early. He also can step in on special teams and contribute right away.
Chekwa is the second Buckeye to be selected in the 2011 NFL draft, coming after Cameron Heyward, who went to the Pittsburgh Steelers in the first round.
This article has been revised to reflect the following correction:
Correction: May 1, 2011
An earlier version of this story stated the Raiders ranked 23rd in the NFL for pass yards given up. The Raiders ranked second in the NFL pass yards given up.
