The buzz started months ago in chat rooms, board meetings, Web sites and TV networks. And it has only intensified.

Is Reggie Bush big enough to carry the load full time?

Is Matt Leinart's arm strong enough?

Is Vince Young too unorthodox?

Who is Vernon Davis, who ran the fastest 40-yard dash time ever for a tight end — 4.38 seconds?

And who's willing to trade up for one of these prized athletes?

Welcome to the NFL draft, which has become an industry all its own.

This year's draft — in New York next Saturday and Sunday and televised nationally — should be more dramatic than most. It features two Heisman Trophy winners and a runner-up, and has enough talent to make all teams happy.

"I think teams, at a minimum, should get three good players," an NFL scout told The Advertiser. "I think it's a real good draft."

How good?

The scout said if last year's No. 1 overall pick, quarterback Alex Smith, were in this year's draft, he'd be a third-round pick.

The San Francisco 49ers paid a $24.5 million bonus to Smith. This year's No. 1 — probably Bush — should get more.

In the NFL draft process, where worst drafts first, the Houston Texans (2-12 last season) have the No. 1 pick. New Orleans, Tennessee, the New York Jets and Green Bay round out the top five.

The lean area of this draft is at wide receiver. Every other position is stacked.

"Offensive line and linebackers are the strongest, and (there's) a bunch of good tight ends," the long-time scout said.