I’ve been putting it off for as long as possible, but no more. Today is NFL Draft day. Maybe tomorrow, too.

You know it’s a strange time when Pat White has been cordoned off by his representation and Pat McAfee isn’t talking because he can’t be reached by phone — let that sink in for a moment. The two Pats are interesting cases for this year’s draft, and wouldn’t you know it, they come from this little old University, which seems to have a knack for such intrigue.

Really, where and how is each drafted and what exactly is his value? Is White a receiver or a quarterback? Or a hybrid? Does a team make a leap because his name is so hot right now? And what about McAfee? Kicker or punter or both? Has the NFL again accepted the value in three-point plays and field position? Isn’t it financially responsible to have a two positions-one contract guy? Does a team reach or does McAfee win a bidding battle in post-draft free agency? Should be fun.

As for White, though, he’s got an incredibly high profile for a second-round pick.

Is there another player quite like him in the draft? There are better athletes, quarterbacks, receivers and even return men, to be sure. Who, though, packages all the ability and excitement and manages to tickle so many fan bases. Everyone wants a guy like this, if only for potential, but also for the results. You know he’s going to produce. Bet against him, I dare you.

I don’t think it’s much of a leap to say Pat White is the most intriguing player in the draft.  So much has been said and discussed about him that people have fallen under the spell. There is still no consensus on where/when he goes and how he’ll be used, but it just seems absolutely clear he’s a safe pick. That point is the most popular one going around now — and why did it take so long to see that? — and there’s been a late rush on evaluating his many talents.

 Mike Mayock, draft analyst for the NFL Network, recently said the Vikings should take White in the second round. “[I would] line him up as a Wildcat with Adrian Peterson,” Mayock said. “I think that would give defensive coordinators nightmares.”