Breaking out

Quarterbacks are sure to intrigue the Raiders, who own the top pick and haven't settled on a starter. LSU's JaMarcus Russell has the arm owner Al Davis covets.

"JaMarcus Russell has more physical tools than any quarterback I've ever seen coming out," Mayock says. "He can make every throw. He's got a Nolan Ryan fastball. He's 6-6, 260 pounds and sneaky athletic. He has a pretty good feel for the game and is a pretty good decision-maker.

"The only question is his work ethic."

That's a big question considering the signing bonus JaMarcus Russell probably will command. Teams have invested $300 million in first-round signing bonuses over the last three years.

Quarterback Brady Quinn could also be this year's Matt Leinart because he's considered the most NFL-ready quarterback in this class after being groomed by former Patriots offensive coordinator Charlie Weis at Notre Dame.

"Brady Quinn has a tremendous skill set," Mayock says. "He can make every throw. He comes out of a Charlie Weis offense, understands pass protections and where to throw the football. Plus, he has unquestioned work ethi

There's another quarterback question beyond JaMarcus Russell vs. Brady Quinn.

"Some people would make an argument for (Ohio State's) Troy Smith," Mayock says. "An average of five, six quarterbacks are taken the first day. Whoever throws well at the combine will help determine that because each quarterback has an issue."

But there are bound to be other impact players available, even if their combine numbers don't lead to first-round draft status.

Boldin and undrafted Cowboys quarterback Tony Romo, another combine oversight, worked out together at IMG's Bradenton, Fla., pre-combine training program in 2003. Four years later they were NFC Pro Bowl teammates hooking up for a 47-yard touchdown.