Mark Barron and the 3 Biggest Hitters in the 2012 NFL Rookie Class

Kim Klement-US PRESSWIRE

The NFL isn't exactly fond of big hits these days, but that doesn't mean fans don't love them. 

Thankfully, for those craving the huge hits that helped the NFL become America's most popular sport, the 2012 draft class infused a handful of young big hitters into the league. 

Yes, some guys still aren't afraid to deliver a spine-tingling hit on a receiver going across the middle. 

Let's take a look. 

Mark Barron

Wow. 

Barron came out of nowhere and dropped Steve Smith. 

Sure, Smith isn't exactly the biggest receiver and he popped back up after the huge gain, but don't tell me Barron didn't send a message with that hit. 

He was a hard-hitter in college and that facet of his game, at the very least, has seemingly already transitioned to the NFL. 

Look for more hits like this in the future from the Alabama alum. 

Mychal Kendricks

David Richard-US PRESSWIRE

Kendricks had five tackles in the Eagles' Week 1 victory over the Cleveland Browns. None were of the bone-crunching variety, but this kid's athletic prowess leads me to believe it's just a matter of time before he really sticks a running back, wide receiver or quarterback.

He was a stud at the combine and is solidly built at 5'11'' and 240 pounds.

Playing with loads of talent within Philadelphia's defense, Kendricks will be put in situations to make an impression as a hard hitter sometime during his rookie season.  

Melvin Ingram

What a burst. 

My Lord. 

Melvin Ingram was arguably the most versatile defender in the 2012 draft class, but his forte is attacking the quarterback off the edge.

He can beat bigger offensive linemen with a bull rush but undoubtedly can win with a torrid speed rush.

The former South Carolina Gamecock is an extremely violent player who has the natural ability to significantly punish quarterbacks and running backs alike. 

Nigel Bradham

Currently, Bradham is a situational linebacker for the Buffalo Bills, but he's working his way toward getting more playing time due to his immense athleticism, a solid 6'2'', 240-pound frame and the fact that the Bills don't have a player cemented into the starting strong-side linebacker role. 

He didn't record any tackles in the season opener against the New York Jets, but expect to see more of him on the field as the season progresses. 

If he has the chance to make a big hit, he certainly can, as evidenced by the video.