The 2006 NFL draft, the 71st in league history, took place in New York City, New York, at Radio City Music Hall on April 29 and April 30, 2006. For the 27th consecutive year, the draft was telecast on ESPN and ESPN2, with additional coverage offered by ESPNU and, for the first time, by NFL Network. Having signed a contract with the Houston Texans on the evening before the draft, Mario Williams, a defensive end from North Carolina State, became the draft's first pick. The selection surprised many commentators, who predicted that the Texans would draft Southern California running back Reggie Bush or Texas quarterback Vince Young. Ohio State produced the most first round selections (five), while Southern California produced the most overall selections (eleven). Twenty-seven compensatory and supplemental compensatory selections were distributed amongst seventeen teams; Tampa Bay, Baltimore, and Tennessee each held three compensatory picks. The league also held a supplemental draft after the regular draft and before the regular season.
First overall pick Mario Williams was a four-time Pro Bowl selection and one-time All-Pro defensive end.
Quarterback Jay Cutler enjoyed a 12-year career in the league, receiving one Pro Bowl invite.
Wide receiver Devin Hester was drafted in the second round and holds several NFL records as a return specialist.
Zach Strief was drafted by the New Orleans Saints in the seventh round and part of the offensive line which won the Madden Most Valuable Protectors Award twice.
Mario Jerrel Williams is an American former professional football player who was a defensive end in the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the NC State Wolfpack, and was selected first overall by the Houston Texans in the 2006 NFL draft. A four-time Pro Bowl selection, he has also played for the Buffalo Bills and Miami Dolphins.
Williams in 2006
Williams with the Texans in 2006