As the fantasy football draft season approaches, the debate about which player to take doesn't wait until the middle rounds. No, it smacks the owners with the No. 1 pick immediately out of the gate with three names vying for that top spot.

Larry Johnson stepped into the top spot in the potent Kansas City offense and promptly raced to 20 touchdowns. New coach Herman Edwards has given the back his support as the top option this season, regardless of whether injured star Priest Holmes returns to the team.

Therein lies the biggest question regarding Johnson heading into training camp. Does Holmes return to the team? If he does, in what capacity? Recent reports have Holmes sitting out the 2006 season as he recovers from his neck injury with a possible return in 2007 in the offing.

Shaun Alexander has scored 16 or more total touchdowns in five consecutive seasons, including 27 last year. Tackle Steve Hutchinson left for Minnesota in free agency, leaving a bit of a question on the offensive line. Can the Seattle juggernaut that steamrolled teams in 2005 continue its dominance?

Finally, LaDaianian Tomlinson of the Chargers scored 20 total touchdowns last season and has been among the game's best since entering the league in 2001. He's scored at least 15 total touchdowns in four consecutive seasons, but his heavy workload often leaves him injured down the stretch run in the all-important fantasy football playoff weeks.

I rank them in the order in which I listed them: 1. Johnson 2. Alexander 3. Tomlinson

The offensive line returns for the Chiefs which will allow Trent Green to open up the field more than last season and create more running space for Johnson. If Holmes returns, he flip-flops roles from a season ago to become an 8-10 touch player. And, even if he does, Johnson will retain the red zone and goal line touches as things stand.

There's my quick take. I'll revisit this topic in more detail during training camp. But for now, who's your No. 1 pick?

Make your case. State it loud and proud.