Dr. Z's Mock Draft

AFTER THE FLASHY names-- Bush, Leinart, Young, Cutler, Ferguson, Davis--are gone, the offensive drought will set in. The depth in this draft is on defense. Half a dozen linebackers could go in the first round; Cowboys coach Bill Parcells says, "In the middle of the round you'll see a great defensive back stampede." Here's how the first round will play out.

1 TEXANS Reggie Bush, RB, USC The most explosive offensive performer in years. Interest in Leinart could produce a late trade, but the Texans would have to be assured they'd get Bush, plus a draft choice, to make the deal.

2 SAINTS Mario Williams, DE, North Carolina State The NFC's worst sacking team in '05 will add a 6'7", 295-pound wingman with 4.66 speed--a disruptive force who had a total of 41 1/2 sacks and tackles for loss last year.

3 TITANS Matt Leinart, QB, USC The debate will rage right up to the deadline: Leinart, fully versed in coordinator Norm Chow's offense, versus the fireworks of Rose Bowl hero Young.

4 JETS D'Brickashaw Ferguson, T, Virginia Amid fans' cries for a QB is the sober voice of one Jets assistant: "We've got a veteran at one tackle and air at the other." This superior, quick-footed pass protector is just the guy to fill the hole.

5 PACKERS A.J. Hawk, LB, Ohio State Linebackers rarely go so high, but it's been years since we've seen one with his speed (4.59), bulk (6'1", 248), strength, athleticism and intensity.

6 49ERS Vernon Davis, TE, Maryland The Broncos desperately wanted to trade up for this 250-pounder who ran a 4.38 40 at the combine. A weapon like that slicing the heart out of the two-deep zone could solve a lot of problems.

7 RAIDERS Vince Young, QB, Texas Warning: Al Davis was overheard mentioning Young's name, which usually means the club will go for almost anyone else. But how can he pass on a player with unlimited upside?

8 BILLS Michael Huff, DB, Texas Maybe he's a strong safety, maybe a corner. With 4.34 speed he'll certainly get a look on the outside. Best of all, he's a solid player who flies to the ball.

9 LIONS Ernie Sims, LB, Florida State "I want a disrupter, a playmaker," says club president Matt Millen. Huff would have been perfect. Sims is an action guy inside, but five concussions make drafting him a little scary.