2012 NFL Draft: 4 Prospects with the Biggest Red Flags

The play of NFL draft prospects isn't the only factor that goes into ultimately deciding when they are selected. 

Red flags can go up in a variety of different areas. 

Let's look at the guys in the 2012 draft class with the biggest areas of concern. 

Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina: Effort 

To some, Coples is the best senior prospect in the 2012 class and a top-15 pick because of his size (6'6'', 285), strength and athleticism. Others are scared away by his supposed lack of effort. SI.com's draft analyst Tony Pauline said the following about how Coples approached the 2011 season.

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It's obvious on film Coples did not play with a sense of urgency last season nor really went after plays not in his immediate vicinity.  While Coples turned it on late in the year, scouts were given the word from those inside the North Carolina program that Coples was “playing not to get injured” for much of the year and was preparing for the draft rather than playing for the season.

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Not good for a guy that will be much more than a situational edge rusher in the NFL. With all the talent, it'd be a shame if Coples turns into a player with a low motor who doesn't give his all on every play.  

Brandon Weeden, QB, Oklahoma State: Age

When you look at Brandon Weeden's size (6'4'', 220) and body of work (71 touchdowns, 20 interceptions in his last two season), one would think he's a first-round pick.

But because the Oklahoma State star will turn 29 this October, he'll most likely be a late-round selection.

He's older than Matt Ryan, Joe Flacco and Aaron Rodgers.  

Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma: Accuracy, Elevated Stock 

Jones isn't a bad signal-calling prospect, in fact, he's one of the best in the country. At 6'4'' and 230 pounds, he has a good arm and was productive during his time at Oklahoma. However, he certainly isn't the most accurate quarterback entering the draft, (63.2 completion percentage in 2011) and he struggled mightily when star wideout Ryan Broyles went down with a severe knee injury. 

Also, Jones' stock may be undeservingly elevated because USC's Matt Barkley decided to stay in school another year. 

Will a team reach for Jones, who seems like more of a system quarterback than anything?

Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina: Attitude (Fight in Bowl Game) / Weight

Jeffery has what you can't teach: size. He's 6'4'' and a menacing 235 pounds with great athleticism and soft hands. However, as we saw in the fight with Nebraska's Alfonzo Dennard in this year's Insight Bowl, some scouts and GMs are worried about his attitude. 

Not a huge concern, but something worth noting. 

How will he handle the ultra-aggressive, extremely physical, press corners in the NFL?

Also, it has been rumored that Jeffery has battled weight problems that could lead to a slower timed 40-yard-dash at the Combine. 

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