Scouting the NFL draft: Quarterbacks and specialists

Summary: Another Manning expected to go No. 1 overall

Manning or Roethlisberger? Manning will probably be drafted first by the San Diego Chargers, even though Roethlisberger projects as the better NFL quarterback in the future.

The situation is similar to 1998's draft, when Eli's brother, Peyton, and former Washington State star Ryan Leaf were the top passers in the draft, and there was debate about whom should be the first player chosen.

Peyton Manning was taken first and became a superstar. Leaf became a super bust. The San Diego Chargers, who traded up to take Leaf, have the No. 1 overall pick this weekend and have a chance at a Manning of their own.

"He has a strong enough arm. He's a good athlete — not a great athlete — and he should be a great player in the NFL," Miami Dolphins general manager Rick Spielman said of Manning.

"In the National Football League, there have been tremendous first-round picks. But even at quarterback, you have to be developed in the NFL," Arizona Cardinals coach Dennis Green said. "Very few guys will walk in and start right away."

The rest of the quarterback class is decent. Rivers and Losman stand out as the two next-best prospects. Then there likely will be a drop-off until the middle rounds.

Seahawks slant: Seahawks rarely pass up good QB prospects

With Matt Hasselbeck having reached his Pro Bowl potential and with a capable and high-character backup in Trent Dilfer, the Seahawks don't need someone in either role.

However, coach Mike Holmgren has selected a quarterback in four of his five seasons in Seattle, most recently Seneca Wallace in the fourth round last year.

It remains to be seen whether the team likes Wallace's potential or whether the Seahawks will decide to try yet another candidate to develop. If that happens, a quarterback won't be chosen until the second day of the draft.