ESPN writers John Clayton and Len Pasquarelli conducted an online mock draft of the first round. Here’s how they projected the first few picks to go:
1. Texans – Reggie Bush, RB
When you have the chance to get a once-in-a-generation player, and add him to one of the league’s worst offenses, money shouldn’t be the overriding factor. The Texans will take Bush.
2. Saints – Mario Williams, DE
Saints would prefer to move down and take someone like Ohio State linebacker A.J. Hawk, but aren’t getting many offers. Even with two former first-round ends on the roster, Williams is too good to pass up.
3. Titans – Vince Young, QB
Lots of intrigue in the Titans war room, with battle lines drawn between the Young and Matt Leinart supporters. The last time we looked, Bud Adams was still signing the paychecks, and the Titans’ owner is believed to favor Young.
4. Jets – D’Brickashaw Ferguson, OT
The fans might want Leinart, but it doesn’t matter who the quarterback is if you can’t protect him. Ferguson is one of the safest picks in the draft and he’ll help solidify a shaky line.
5. Packers – A.J. Hawk, LB
Hawk has been the main Packers target the entire offseason. He’ll add skill and leadership to their defense. While Hawk is the likely pick, don’t be surprised if general manager switches off to give Brett Favre tight end Vernon Davis.
6. 49ers – Vernon Davis, TE
The 49ers are fine whether they get Davis or Hawk. Figuring they would probably end up with Davis, the 49ers traded up with Denver to get the 22nd pick in the first round and be in position to get a defensive back or a linebacker. The 49ers just need starters.
7. Raiders – Matt Leinart, QB
Aaron Brooks was signed as a one-year fix at quarterback, so the Raiders can’t turn down a franchise quarterback, whether it’s Leinart or Young. Al Davis isn’t the biggest fan of left-handed quarterbacks, despite the success of Ken Stabler, but Leinart is too talented to pass up.
It’s interesting that Pasquarelli believes that the Titans will take Young over Leinart. Many think that Tennessee’s “internal dispute” over the two QBs is just a smokescreen to keep other teams from trading up to the #2 spot to grab Leinart. Teams would less likely to try to trade up if they believed there was a chance that the Titans would pass on Leinart. I’m guessing that Leinart will go to Tennessee and that Young will be the QB that will fall to Oakland.
Also, if the Jets do pass on Leinart (or Young for that matter), expect a lot of “boos” from the NY Jets faithful, who will no doubt be out in force at the draft.
