ESPN’s Chris Mortensen reported Wednesday that the Raiders are said to be interested in drafting West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith with the No. 3 pick.

We discussed that topic on the blog last month and I made the case that it would be a bad idea. I feel the same today. I wouldn’t worry too much if I was an Oakland fan. It is smokescreen season.

In other AFC West news:

In a close vote, voters in our AFC West poll think the Broncos should let youngsters Nate Irving and Steven Johnson battle for the starting middle-linebacker job, but by the smallest of margins.

Some 51 percent prefer to see Denver take that route over drafting a middle linebacker at No. 28. It is a strong draft class and I think Denver might be best served to consider someone such as Georgia’s Alec Ogletree or Notre Dame’s Manti Te'o if he is available when the Broncos pick.

The Giants re-signed left tackle Will Beatty to a five-year deal worth $38.75 million. This is significant in the AFC West given the contract situation of Kansas City left tackle Branden Albert. Expect Albert to look for a deal worth more than Beatty's. The Chiefs could also franchise him. The two sides are talking.

The Chargers also badly need a left tackle and it is a good free-agent class at the position. But the Beatty signing has made that class one member smaller.