First-rounder Wells signs with Cardinals

FLAGSTAFF, Ariz., Aug. 1 (UPI) -- An agent for former Ohio State running back Beanie Wells says the Arizona Cardinals' first-round pick has signed a five-year deal with the NFL franchise.

Agent Adam Heller said Saturday his client's deal with the Cardinals includes a club option for the fifth year, The Arizona Republic reported. Financial details of the deal were not reported.

Heller said Wells is expected to immediately report to the Cardinals' training camp and is to undergo a physical.

The Cardinals released tight end Alex Shor to free up a roster spot for the newly signed 2009 NFL draft pick, the Republic said.

Wells, who was selected by Arizona with the 31st pick of the draft, is expected to compete for starting running back honors with Tim Hightower.

The Republic said the drafting and signing of Wells, 20, comes after the Cardinals parted ways with running back Edgerrin James and lost third-down back J.J. Arrington to free agency.