While more first-round draft picks have reached or are near finalizing contracts, the Bengals and No. 6 overall selection Andre Smith are locked in a staredown that could last several more weeks.

The Raiders raised eyebrows and surprised some when they picked Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey with the seventh overall selection in the 2009 NFL Draft. The team could be open for more scrutiny if Heyward-Bey continues to struggle in training camp.

No. 7 overall draft pick Darrius Heyward-Bey has agreed to terms on a five-year contract with the Raiders, according to his agent, Ben Dogra. Meanwhile, the Rams and No. 2 overall pick Jason Smith are close to finalizing a deal.

Defensive end Derrick Burgess and rookie wide receiver Darrius Heyward-Bey were absent as the Raiders opened training camp in Napa, Calif. Wednesday.

Burgess, a two-time Pro Bowler, has not taken part in any offseason activities and he reportedly continues to lobby for a trade. Heyward-Bey, the seventh-overall pick in April’s NFL Draft, has yet to sign a contract, though head coach Tom Cable expressed optimism that a deal would be reached soon.

Random gatherings from my random mind at the NFL Rookie Symposium.

WR Darrius Heyward-Bey worked out for the Raiders in Maryland on Friday.

The headliner at Maryland’s pro day was Darrius Heyward-Bey (6-1 5/8, 212 pounds), who drew a bunch of receiver coaches, including the New York Jets’ Henry Ellard.

The official 40-yard-dash results are in, and Maryland WR Darrius Heyward-Bey posted the fastest official time Sunday among wide receivers at 4.30 seconds.

Maryland receiving prospect Darrius Heyward-Bey’s football career seems to be on the fast track.