NFL

Rumor mill

By RICK STROUD
Published April 21, 2005

Recognizing the value and interest in Utah quarterback Alex Smith and Michigan receiver Braylon Edwards, the Dolphins are putting out signals that they are ready to pull the trigger on either of those players as the No. 2 overall pick.

Tampa Bay still may be willing to make a deal with the Dolphins if Smith is not there, but it would be for Edwards or Auburn running back Ronnie Brown.

If the Bucs remain at No. 5 and Cal quarterback Aaron Rodgers still is available, as it appears he might be, the decision will get tougher.

But the Bucs still could have their choice between receiver Mike Williams and Auburn running back Carnell "Cadillac' Williams. The final mock draft by Scouts Inc. has the Bucs taking Cadillac, who is the most elusive of the big three running backs and has the hands to be a receiving weapon.

There have been plenty of reports about the Vikings wanting to move up from their No. 7 spot to select one of the top receivers, most likely Edwards. But a more likely scenario is that the Vikings move down.

The Vikings apparently are determined to hold onto their second pick in the first round, the 18th pick overall. According to ESPN.com, that was never offered in trade discussions, making it unlikely the Vikings could move all the way to the Dolphins' pick at No. 2.

Virginia offensive guard Elton Brown saw his stock drop after an injury forced him out of the Senior Bowl and he couldn't finish his pro day workout when he pulled up injured. But it appears his slide won't last past the second round.

Brown visited the Bucs, Eagles, Giants and Steelers and will be a real consideration in the second round for Tampa Bay as a swing player who can play guard or tackle.

[Last modified April 21, 2005, 01:06:12]