In one way, the NFL Draft is like mayonnaise and country music.

You either love it or you hate it. Now that we’re a week away from the 2009 spectacle at Radio City Music Hall in New York, most people around here probably find themselves in the latter category.

That’s because no Kansas players are going to be drafted. You could argue there’s an outside shot. Sorry, ain’t happenin’.

But that doesn’t mean the 2009 NFL Draft won’t be full of connections to the Jayhawks. In fact, five consensus first round picks were enemies to Kansas in games played within the last two years.

So here’s the Morning Brew’s not-so-extensive guide to why Kansas fans should pay attention to the draft. We’ll break down the five former Big 12 Conference players who look like they will go the highest next weekend.

Jason Smith, Baylor offensive tackle

Against Kansas: Was a starter on the Baylor team in 2006 that scored 19 points in the final nine minutes to beat Kansas 36-35 in Waco, Texas. The next year, Smith and the Bears suffered a 58-10 defeat to the Jayhawks.

NFL Draft Projection: No. 2 pick to the St. Louis Rams

Future Prediction: Smith is in a tough position. He looks like he’ll be the first tackle taken in a draft that is loaded with talent on the offensive line. Unfortunately for Smith, he’ll always be compared to other guys like Alabama’s Andre Smith and Ole Miss’s Michael Oher who both will be selected later in the first round but have just as much talent. Smith will be a solid professional, but no superstar. No Orlando Pace.

Michael Crabtree, Texas Tech

wide receiver

Against Kansas: Remember the 63-21 Red Raider shellacking of the Jayhawks this season? Yeah, Crabtree had nine catches for 70 yards and two touchdowns in that one.

NFL Draft Projection: No. 4 pick to the Seattle Seahawks

Future Prediction: He’s an All-Pro performer, no question. Some say Crabtree is the best talent in the 2009 Draft. Injuries are the only way Crabtree will be stopped from catapulting up the NFL receiver ranks.

Jeremy Maclin,

Missouri

wide receiver

Against Kansas: Maclin had 398 all-purpose yards against the Jayhawks in two games. That’s pretty good.

NFL Draft Projection: No. 8 pick to the Jacksonville Jaguars

Future Prediction: Whoever takes Maclin is making a risky move. He’s not as big as a prototypical NFL receiver — Maclin is 6 foot, 198 pounds — and has a history of knee problems. But if Maclin stays healthy, there’s no question he has the skills to be a No. 1 receiver.

Brian Orakpo, Texas defensive end

Against Kansas: Orakpo only played sparingly in Texas’ 35-7 victory against Kansas this past season. He was limited because he was returning from a sprained knee injury.

NFL Draft Projection: No. 10 pick to the San Francisco 49ers

Future Prediction: NFL scouts love the idea of using Orakpo as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Orakpo’s strength and athleticism should make that work.

Brandon Pettigrew, Oklahoma State tight end

Against Kansas: In two games, he had four catches for 40 yards. Not exactly dazzling, but Pettigrew is also a solid blocker.

NFL Draft Projection: No. 11 pick to the Buffalo Bills

Future Prediction: Rumor has it that the Bills want Pettigrew, but taking him 11th overall might be a stretch. They could trade down and still take him. Physically, he’d be a dominant prospect but hasn’t shown game-breaking ability in college.

— ­­— Edited by Casey Miles