Johnson leads group of receivers

The 2007 NFL draft this season will feature one of the most dynamic wide receivers in college football. Everyone knows his name, his 40 yard dash time (4.35), his alma mater (Georgia Tech), who is interested in his services (see: everyone), and who has a chance at drafting him (see: top 3-5 overall).

Calvin Johnson is a unique specimen. He has perfectly blended size, speed, and athleticism — 6′5, 239 pounds, runs a 4.35 40 yard dash. It’s no surprise that he leads a deep group of receivers in this draft. He has attracted the attention of all 32 teams drafting, but there is no guarantee he will fall past the first overall pick.

That’s right: Oakland. The Raiders are reportedly very interested in Johnson and would undoubtedly select him if they did not have such a pressing need at quarterback. Instead, the team is projected to draft quarterback JaMarcus Russell. His strong arm and big body should be able to handle the rigors of the position.

But can the Raiders pass up on the best prospect in the draft? There is no certainty that Russell will pan out in the NFL, and Johnson is a more secure pick. Johnson has great character and integrity, and he would allow the Raiders to trade Randy Moss without losing a great wide receiver.

Let’s assume, however, that the Raiders do allow Johnson to slip through their fingers. Number two on the clock is Detroit. The Lions are also showing a great deal of interest in Johnson, and it would not be out of character if they drafted another first round wide receiver — they drafted a wide receiver in three consecutive drafts, 2003-05. And while only one of those receivers has worked out, no one could fault the team for “taking a chance” on a fourth receiver.

But who knows what Matt Millen plans to do. His drafting formula is among the oddest in the league, and the Lions have far more pressing needs on the defensive side of the ball, not to mention the offensive line. (Joe Thomas, the athletic Wisconsin tackle, is the current projection.)

If Johnson would fall past Detroit, expect one of the next two teams on the clock to draft him. Cleveland would like to add someone of Johnson’s caliber to their mundane offense; however, there is a good chance they will pass on him, opting instead for running back Adrian Peterson whose services are far more important right now. But do not expect the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to pass up on Johnson. They have been eying him since draft talks began, and the team needs a great wide receiver.

And, of course, there is one wild card team in the draft: the Redskins. Washington is known for making a splash on draft day, especially with Daniel Snyder around. It is unlikely, but not impossible, that the Redskins will make a move to draft Johnson. A trade with either Cleveland or Detroit is not out of the question. As one NFC personnel executive said, “If it were any other team I couldn’t see it happening, but with that coach and that owner, you never know.”