On the surface, Oregon running back Jonathan Stewart’s surgery to repair a broken bone in his foot has raised red flags.  But some league insiders appreciate the fact that Stewart addressed the situation now, even though it puts his short-term financial interests at risk.

“It’s not a real big deal,” said one league source.  ”I don’t think he gets out of round one.  He’s simply too talented.  It’s not really, in my opinion, any different than Heath Miller having surgery to repair a sports hernia before the draft.

“I actually think it’s responsible and somewhat honorable that he had it fixed now.  He did it so he’d be ready for camp at the expense of his draft stock.  A lot of players would not have done that.  I think it reflects positively on the kid and I don’t think teams will hold it against him.  He’s too good.  The Bills drafted Willis McGahee in round one, and Stewart is every bit as good with a much less serious injury.”