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In the spirit of the election year, ESPN let the fans of NFL Nation vote for who they think should be taken with each first-round pick of the 2012 draft. (Once selected, a player was off the board.) But what's an election without some healthy debate? So we asked in-house experts Todd McShay and Mel Kiper, plus beat reporters from across the NFL, to pit their picks against those of you, the people. To find out how the real thing plays out, tune in to ESPN on April 26 at 8 p.m. ET.
 Indianapolis ColtsPeople's pick: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford Todd McShay: It seems obvious that the Colts have decided on Luck. He's the most complete prospect I've ever evaluated, with simply no glaring weaknesses. He doesn't often make the wrong reads or the wrong throws. That's rare for me to say. Mel Kiper: Not only will the Colts take Luck, I don't think they've ever considered anyone else. But fans need to balance great expectations for Luck with the reality that he needs help -- and the Colts have the NFL's weakest roster. Mike Chappell, Indianapolis Star: The closer you get to the draft, the more people talk about indecision. But owner Jim Irsay sees an awful lot of Peyton Manning in Luck.  Washington RedskinsPeople's pick: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor Todd McShay: RG3 is a perfect fit for the Redskins. I really think he wants to be in Washington, and he's exactly the kind of strong-armed, mobile QB that coach Mike Shanahan and his son, Kyle, want to run their pro-style offense. Mel Kiper: Washington could wait all 10 minutes to make its pick and there still wouldn't be any suspense. RG3 came into the draft picture later than other top names, but great accuracy and experience make him a safe early starter. Chris Russell, ESPN 980, Washington D.C.: The Skins haven't had a franchise QB since Dan Snyder became owner. No chance they don't take RG3, assuming Indy takes Luck. |
