2012 NFL Draft Order: Which Late First-Round Teams Are in Best Position?

The NFL regular season has come to an end, which means we know a good portion of the 2012 NFL draft order. Some teams are in a great spot, but others will find it difficult to land an elite star. 

Naturally, the teams picking the top 10 are in the best situation in terms of drafting, but there are some late first-round teams that are sure to succeed. 

Just because teams are picking near the tail-end of the first round, it doesn't mean they can't find good talent that will have an impact right away. 

With that said, here are some teams picking in the late first round that are in good hands. 

New England Patriots 

It isn't known yet where the Patriots will pick, but since they have two first-round picks, they will have plenty of options. 

Bill Belichick will hold on to the first pick, but that second first-round pick could easily be moved. Of course, he could use both to move up higher in the draft, but I highly doubt that because it isn't his style.

If the Patriots were wise, they'd hold on to both picks to help their pitiful defense, which was the worst in the NFL this season. 

They may be picking late, but since they're likely to have back-to-back picks (thanks to the New Orleans Saints), the Patriots will be just fine in the 2012 NFL draft. 

Cincinnati Bengals 

The Bengals have the No. 17 pick courtesy of the Oakland Raiders, and they will have another pick that's likely to be in the early to mid-20's. 

Cincinnati surprised a number of people this season, and adding another skill player or elite defender will help take this team to the next level. 

Playing in the AFC North, the Bengals must compete with the Pittsburgh Steelers and the Baltimore Ravens, which means winning the division will never be easy. 

However, with two first-round picks, the Bengals will continue to get better to help make the division one of the best in the league. 

Cleveland Browns 

The Browns had a rough season and ended up with the No. 4 pick in the draft. They will also have a pick in the mid to late 20's, thanks to the Atlanta Falcons. 

This gives the Browns a great opportunity to trade up and get talent that will help immediately. Since Colt McCoy continues to struggle, giving him skill players is a must. 

However, Cleveland could go a different route and use both picks to trade up for Andrew Luck. They have plenty of options with their two first-round picks, but using both is most likely the best idea. 

Robert Griffin III should still be available at No. 4, so if they want a new QB, then he is a solid option. Plus, with the mid to late 20's pick from Atlanta, the Browns should be able to find a talented wide receiver to help whoever their quarterbacks is. 

2012 NFL Draft Order 

Disclaimer: Selections 21-32 expected to change as playoffs unfold.

1.  Colts                        

2.  Rams                                    

3.  Vikings                                

4.  Browns                                   

5.  Buccaneers                           

6.  Redskins                                

7.  Jaguars                                  

8t. Panthers                               

8t. Dolphins                               

10. Bills                                        

11t. Chiefs                                  

11t. Seahawks                             

13. Cardinals                              

14. Cowboys                                

15. Eagles                                  

16. Jets                                          

17. Bengals (from Raiders)        

18. Chargers                               

19. Bears                                     

20. Titans                                     

21. Broncos 

22. Bengals 

23. Giants 

24. Texans 

25. Lions 

26. Browns (from Falcons) 

27. Steelers 

28. Ravens 

29. Patriots (from Saints)

30. 49ers  

31. Patriots 

32. Packers