Written by Although most analysts believe LSU quarterback JaMarcus Russell is the clear-cut best choice, many experts now contend that the Oakland Raiders will select Geoagia Tech wide receiver Calvin Johnson.
A month ago, the Detroit Lions, who select second, seemed destined to take Wisconsin star offensive lineman Joe Thomas. Now, Detroit is rumored to be interested in Clemson defensive end Gaines Adams.
The Cleveland Browns select third, and they are projected to take either Russell or Notre Dame QB Brady Quinn.
Suddenly, the player in a free fall is Oklahoma running back Adrian Peterson.
Just a few weeks ago, every expert from California to North Carolina had Peterson going to the Browns — an awful team, in desperate need of a running game. Despite some history of injury, Peterson fits the bill perfectly. Now, Cleveland may pass on Peterson for one of the big-name quarterbacks.
Adrian Peterson is a splendid back with great size and unrivaled speed and quickness. A marvelous blend of power, cutting ability and breakaway speed, Peterson can be compared to NFL greats like Billy Sims, Gayle Sayers and a bigger version of Marshall Faulk.
When the 2007 nfl draft arrives, several teams selecting in the top five or eight will miss on the NFL's next great running back.
Meanwhile, a team that never dreamed of landing Adrian Peterson will be very happy.
