2012 NFL Draft: 25 Prospects Whose Stocks Have Fallen the Furthest This Season

The NFL draft process is like a roller coaster ride. Prospects face a ton of scrutiny, which causes constant movement in their stock. Sometimes one poor performance can cost a player several draft spots.

This world of Youtube, ESPN 3 and constant coverage gives scouts plenty of opportunities to evaluate a prospect. The more games they view, the more visible weaknesses become. Those prospects who have a steady draft stock are usually the most consistent performers.

A players stock can also suffer if there are character concerns. This list features more than a few players who have seen their stock drop because of off-the-field issues.

Landry Jones, Quarterback- Oklahoma

Oklahoma's Landry Jones possesses top five talent, and at one point was considered the second best quarterback prospect. However, USC's Matt Barkley and Baylor's Robert Griffin III have passed Jones in the quarterback rankings. Jones is now fighting to remain in the top 15 discussion.

In his past three games, Jones threw for zero touchdowns and five interceptions. His poor play cost the Sooniers a shot at another National Championship, as they lost two of those last three games. The knock on Jones surrounds his inconsistency.

Evaluators will key on his history of making poor decisions, which isn't tolerated in the NFL. His stock is at an all-time low, but there is a chance to make up some of that last ground. Oklahoma takes on Iowa in the Insight Bowl. This game will provide Jones with a shot to end the season on a strong note.

Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver- South Carolina

Alshon Jeffery might find it difficult to land in the top 10 of the 2012 draft. His Junior season didn't help his draft stock, and actually brought on some questions. Jeffery's season numbers are about half of what they were in 2010. For example, he compiled over 1,500 receiving yards in 2010, but has failed to top 700 yards this season. This drop in production has some questioning his ability create separation.

At one point, Jeffery was considered head and shoulders above the rest of the receiver prospects. His combination of size and quickness creates a major mismatch. NFL teams are targeting bigger wide receivers, who can attack the ball at its highest point. His skill set had him in consideration for a top five selection.

Jeffery still has time to repair his draft stock. However, it will depend on a solid combine performance and a fast 40 time.

Jeff Fuller, Wide Receiver- Texas A&M

At one point, Jeff Fuller was considered a possible 1st round selection. His ability to stretch the field and make explosive plays catches the eyes of evaluators. However, Fuller's stock is at an all time low after a tough season. He would be lucky to still be in the discussion as a 2nd round pick.

Fuller's season has been plagued by inconsistent play. He is lacking the explosive plays he produced during the 2010 season. His season long catch is only for 29 yards. An explosive player who struggles to make plays down the field will always see a drop in his stock.

In order to repair his draft stock, Fuller needs to have strong workout numbers and a fast 40 time.

Jerel Worthy, Defensive Tackle- Michigan State

Michigan State's Jerel Worthy lost a lot of ground when it comes to his draft stock. He will be lucky to sneak into the back end of the 1st round. Worthy's season did not go as expected and was a disappointment. Because of his flashes of brilliance, he was expected to have a breakout season. However, he failed to consistently make his presence felt.

Early in the season, many felt that Worthy could make a push towards the top 10. He reminded a lot of people of Nick Fairley, who came out of nowhere to land in the top 15. Those expectations are what magnified his struggles this season.

Worthy stock appears to be set, as he has little opportunities to improve his status. He could potentially return for his Senior season, but many feel he will jump to the NFL.

Brandon Jenkins, Defensive End/Linebacker- Florida State

Florida State's Brandon Jenkins was seen as a potential top 15 selection. During his Sophomore season, Jenkins racked up 13.5 sacks and many more quarterback pressures. The NFL covets defenders who are capable of generating pressure.

However, Jenkins failed to build off the momentum of his Sophomore season. His sack total dropped to 7 on the season and there were far fewer dynamic plays. Top end pass rushers need to have consistency and fight through double teams. Something Jenkins struggled with this past season. Because of his struggles this season, he is dangerously close to falling out of the 1st round discussion.

Jenkins is a terrific athlete and will wow at the combine. This will be his opportunity to repair his damaged draft stock.

Bruce Irvin, Linebacker- West Virginia

West Virginia's Bruce Irvin used a 14.5 sack 2010 to put himself on the radar of many NFL teams. Because of his explosiveness off the edge, he projected as an elite NFL pass rusher. Irvin's style and build made him an ideal fit for a 3-4 outside linebacker. At one point, he was considered to be a 1st round lock.

However, Irvin has failed to build off last season's success. He currently has 7.5 sacks and far less quarterback pressures. His stock depends on his ability to generate consistent pressure, which he hasn't accomplished this season.

Irvin will need a strong showing at one of the all-star games to improve his stock. He will also get an opportunity to catch a few eyes at the combine, where his physical skills will stand out.

Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback- North Alabama

North Alabama's Janoris Jenkins is barely hanging on to a 1st round grade. His talents are worthy of a top 15 pick, but his off-the-field issues make him damaged goods. Florida decided to kick Jenkins off the team after a third marijuana related arrest in less than two years.  

Most NFL teams will be leery of utilizing a 1st round pick on a player with such a troubled history. The NFL's player conduct policy puts troubled players at a high likelihood for a suspension. Remove the off-the-field issues and Jenkins doesn't fall past the 15th pick.

Because of his instincts and quickness, he provides a team with great zone coverage. His balls skills only increase his potential, as he is always a threat to intercept a pass. Jenkins needs a good round of team interviews to repair his stock.

Cliff Harris, Cornerback- Oregon

At the end of last season, Oregon's Cliff Harris boasted a solid 1st round grade. He is an instinctual player, who has the athletic abilities to make plays on the ball. However, his off-the-field issues make him nearly undraftable. Best case scenario, Harris finds a way to get selected in the 6th or 7th rounds of the draft.

Harris was recently dismissed from the Oregon football team. He had missed the last five games after being suspended for traffic violations. It appears that Harris isn't capable of learning from his mistakes, and failed to take advantage of several chances. No team will waste a top draft pick on such an unreliable person.

Cyrus Gray, Running Back- Texas A&M

Entering the season, Texas A&M's Cyrus Gray got some love as a potential Heisman sleeper. He was coming off a season where he compiled 1133 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns. During that season, Gray also averaged almost six yards per carry.

Gray has gone from a potential 2nd round selection to more of a mid-round prospect. His production dropped this season, and he lost a lot of carries to Christine Michael. The biggest thing impacting Gray's status is his lack of consistency. He is more of a home-run hitter, who struggles to pick up the tough yardage.

He could see his stock take a step forward if he has a strong combine. Great 40 times always help a players draft position.

Juron Criner, Wide Receiver- Arizona

Arizona's Juron Criner dealt with an up and down Senior season. His ability to overcome injuries and some off the field struggles was impressive. However, those issues took a toll on his production, which was a bit disappointing. Criner went from a possible 2nd round selection to more of a mid-round prospect.

Criner's draft stock has been impacted by his struggles and the struggles of his team. The Arizona football program is in disarray, after a completely horrid season. They were expected to contend in the PAC-12, but finished the season with only four wins.

The offseason all-star games will provide Criner with an opportunity to repair his stock. Events like the Senior Bowl is where players can regain a lot of lost ground.

Andrew Datko, Offensive Line- Florida State

Florida State's Andrew Datko appeared to be headed towards becoming a 2nd or 3rd round draft pick. He played with consistency and proper technique, which made him a well rounded player. However, he likely won't come off the board until around the 5th round.

Datko's season was cut short by a shoulder injury. He needed the time on the field to prove to evaluators he is capable of protecting the edge. Throughout his career, Datko had some trouble handling the speed rushers. This season was his last shot at proving he could play left tackle in the NFL.

Marcus Forston, Defensive Line- Miami

Miami's Marcus Forston decided to forego his Senior season and enter the 2012 NFL Draft. He made this decision despite missing the majority of the season with an injury. This is a risky decision, as his stock is at an all time low. Entering the season, Forston received some attention as a possible 1st-round pick. However, he currently projects as a 4th-round prospect.

Forston's draft stock is hurt by his extensive injury history. He miss the majority of 2009 and then again this past season. NFL teams are very leery about adding a player with an extensive injury history. Fortson will have little opportunity to improve his stock.

Jared Crick, Defensive Line- Nebraska

Nebraska's Jared Crick was expected to replace Ndamukong Suh as the next dominant defensive lineman in Lincoln. Earlier thoughts were that Crick had the quickness and burst to create consistent inside pressure. However, Crick failed to meet expectations and will be lucky to land in the 2nd round of the 2012 draft.

Crick benefited from the presence of Suh, who commanded constant double teams. This allow Crick to work one on one and fly under the radar. After Suh left, Crick struggled to work off double teams and make the same impact.

His stock also took a hit after his season ending pectoral injury. The injury limited Crick's opportunity to end his career on a positive note.

Tony Dye, Safety- UCLA

UCLA's Tony Dye was once considered a 2nd round pick and one of the top safeties eligible for the 2012 draft. He is a physical player, who excels at coming up in run support. His strong rush defense is complemented by decent coverage skills.

After an injury riddled Senior season, Dye would be lucky to be in the discussion for a late round selection. A serious neck injury forced him to miss seven games this season and a leg injury cost him another. The neck injury is a cause for concern, as it clouds his long-term future.

Dye will need to get the all-clear from team doctors before anyone considers drafting him.

Donte Paige- Moss, Defensive End/Linebacker- North Carolina

A breakout 2010 season did wonders for North Carolina's Donte Paige-Moss' draft stock. He finished the year with seven sacks and plenty of quarterback pressures. Some felt that he was a more natural pass rusher than his teammate Quinton Coples.

However, a disappointing 2011 season facilitated the crash of Paige-Moss' draft stock. He went from a possible 1st round pick to a later round prospect. Because he is only a Junior, he has an opportunity to return for another season. Paige-Moss needs to head back to school and rebuild.

Kenny Tate, Linebacker- Maryland

Maryland's Kenny Tate was getting some love as a possible 2nd or 3rd round pick in the 2011 draft. Team's pegged him as a strong safety, who need to improve his cover skills. However, he still possessed a ton of upside. Tate decided to return to school and switch from a safety to a linebacker. His hope was that NFL teams would value him as a rush linebacker.

This decision immediately hurt his draft stock, which only plummeted further after a season ending. Tate has received a medical redshirt and will return to Maryland next season, where he plays to continue developing as a linebacker.

Ryan Miller, Offensive Line- Colorado

Colorado's Ryan Miller possesses the size of an NFL lineman, which has caught the eye of some evaluators. NFL scouts often look for players they feel can improve with better coaching. Miller is seen as that type of prospect. However, his on the field play doesn't suggest he will be anything more than a career backup.

Miller's stock started to drop as more game tape became available. The more people watched him play the more his weaknesses were exposed. Someone will take a chance on Miller, but his stock is at an all time low.

Greg Childs, Wide Receiver- Arkansas

This season completely destroyed the draft stock of Arkansas' Greg Childs. He failed to fully recover from a 2010 patellar tendon injury. This season, Childs only caught 16 balls for 192 yards. These numbers are a significant drop from his 2010 totals.

Childs didn't possess great speed prior to his injury, and since appears to have lost a step. NFL wide receivers need their speed and quickness to gain separation. Because of this loss in speed, he will be lucky to sneak into the 5th round.

The only chance Childs has to rebuild his stock is to run an impressive 40 time at the combine. This would answer the questions about his knee and speed.

Marc Tyler, Running Back- USC

USC's Marc Tyler has yet to live up to expectations. He possesses a ton of talent, but his immaturity gets in the way of his production. After a strong Junior season, Tyler received some looks as a possible mid-round prospect. Others felt he could make a push into the 2nd round range.

However, Tyler was videoed making light of a pay for play violation. This resulted in a one game suspension and a practice ban. The suspension cost Tyler his starting position and tons of carries. He went from a potential 2nd round pick to no better than a 5th round prospect.

Tyler will need to get an invite to a prominent all-star game. This would provide him the opportunity to showcase his talents.

Tydreke Powell, Defensive Tackle- North Carolina

North Carolina's Tydreke Powell is a big bodied defensive lineman, who excels at occupying blockers. However, he plays with inconsistent effort and pad level. This often results him Powell getting pushed off the line and away from the play. It appears that the earliest he will come off the board will be around 5th round.

Heading into the season, Powell was considered a breakout candidate and someone evaluators should monitor. He had the size and strength needed to be an effective nose tackle. Powell just need to show consistency and he could have sniffed the 3rd round.

Travis Lewis, Linebacker- Oklahoma

At one point in his career, Oklahoma's Travis Lewis was considered a potential 1st round pick. Because of his instincts and quickness, he made a large number of tackles. Evaluators were willing to overlook his size because of his production.

This season, Lewis saw a big drop in his production, recording 30 less tackles than in 2010. He also failed to record a sack or make many impactful plays. As soon as his production dropped evaluators started to focus on his lack of size.

Best case scenario, Lewis is looking at a 4th round selection. This is a major drop from where he was once projected.

Vontaze Burfict, Linebacker- Arizona State

Based on production and physical abilities Arizona State's Vontaze Burfict is a top 10 talent. However, rumors of immature behavior has negatively effected his stock. Burfict's temper and poor decisions are costing him millions of dollars. NFL teams want their defenders to be nasty, but also play under control.

These character concerns may push Burfict out of the top 10. The interviewing process will be a major factor in where he is drafted. Teams will want to get a feel for his maturity and passion for the game. However, his reputation will follow him and any mistake will cost him.

Nick Foles, Quarterback- Arizona

Arizona's atrocious season caused the fans some emotional distress, cost Mike Stoops his job and hurt Nick Foles' draft stock. Foles didn't have a terrible season, but his failure to win games is tough to overlook. As a result of this season, he will be lucky to be a 3rd round pick.

Heading into the season, Foles gained some steam as a possible 2nd round selection. His combination of size and arm strength makes him an ideal NFL prospect. He possesses the arm strength needed to make all the necessary throws. However, some mechanical and accuracy concerns were apparent.

The perception of a player has a major impact on his draft stock. Foles inability to lead Arizona to more victories makes it difficult for evaluators to focus on the positives. It also makes people wonder if he has that "it" factor.

Ryan Broyles, Wide Receiver- Oklahoma

Oklahoma's Ryan Broyles never possessed a great draft stock. His best-case-scenario would have been to come off the board in the 3rd round. However, his recent knee injury will only push him further down draft boards. All the other concerns about his game are over shadowed by his knee injury.

Broyles' success depends on his quickness and ability to gain separation. An ACL injury has a tendency to impact a players quickness, especially the first year after the surgery. There is a strong possibility that Broyles will not be ready for the start of the NFL season.

Improving his draft stock is all but out of the question. However, he will get selected and will have an opportunity to prove himself.

Mike Brewster, Center- Ohio State

Ohio State's Mike Brewster will be one of the top-rated center prospects. He gained a ton of experience as a four-year starter at Ohio State. His hard work and leadership ability gives him a good shot at success. However, Brewster has had some struggles this season.

Brewster appeared to be headed towards a third round selection, but now looks more like a fifth round prospect. The biggest concern has been Brewster's botched snaps, which was a main factor in Ohio State's loss to Penn State.