NFL draft: Top prospects

Published: Saturday, April 29 2006 12:00 a.m. MDT

Virginia's D'Brickashaw Ferguson, left

QUARTERBACKS

1. Matt Leinart, USC: He has the height and frame scouts like and has been praised by scouting services for his instincts, quick reads of defenses and poise. His accuracy is excellent and his arm strength adequate.

2. Vince Young, Texas: A nightmare for defenses with his combination of accurate passing and elusive, open-field running. His sidearm delivery worked for him in college but could lead to more batted passes in the NFL.

3. Jay Cutler, Vanderbilt: Has all the necessary physical skills to succeed in the NFL. While he's no Vince Young, he is still a threat to take off and throw on the run. Needs to improve his mechanics, especially with his release.

Others: Omar Jacobs, Bowling Green; Brodie Croyle, Alabama; Kellen Clemens, Oregon; Bruce Gradkowski, Toledo; Charlie Whitehurst, Clemson; Reggie McNeal, Texas A&M; Drew Olson, UCLA; Marcus Vick, Virginia Tech.

RUNNING BACKS

1. Reggie Bush, USC: Fast, elusive and nearly impossible to take down in the open field. Smaller than ideal, he's not the type to move the pile or soak up 30 carries. He can stretch defenses on any down by lining up as a wideout.

2. DeAngelo Williams, Memphis: An elite all-around prospect, he's quick and compact but also elusive and difficult to tackle. He's also a good pass catcher and route runner. Major concern is injury history.

3. LenDale White, USC: Big and strong, he runs low and can punish defenders at the point of attack. Good at pushing the pile and making a quick cutback. Lacks elite speed. Decent pass catcher.

Others: Laurence Maroney, Minnesota; Joseph Addai, LSU; Garrett Mills, Tulsa; Jerious Norwood, Mississippi State; Leon Washington, Florida State; Brian Calhoun, Wisconsin; Maurice Drew, UCLA; Jerome Harrison, Washington State; Gerald Riggs Jr., Tennessee.

TIGHT ENDS

1. Vernon Davis, Maryland: Not quite as big as some star pros but has exceptional athleticism and soft hands. Can embarrass defenders in man coverage. Not much of a blocker, but teams won't be eyeing him for that duty.

2. Marcedes Lewis, UCLA: Good receiver and big target who excels at catching the jump ball. Very agile and athletic. Has been praised for ability to take out moving LBs. Will probably struggle to block DEs along the line.

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