2012 NFL Draft Projections: Ranking Top 3 Prospects From Alabama

The Alabama Crimson Tide just had their biggest win in the last three years but now they’re about to suffer big loses.

Multiple big losses.

By nobody’s surprise, ‘Bama has seven to eight players ranked in the top 50 of most analysts' NFL draft “big boards." Nick Saban is running a talent factory and his recruiting skills were on full display in winning a second championship in three years.

But not everybody is on the same talent level. Here are the top three prospects ready to cash in on the NFL coming out of Tuscaloosa:

Dre Kirkpatrick, CB

The junior hasn’t announced his decision yet, but he’d be foolish to pass up on the opportunity. His blend of size (6'3", 192 pounds), speed (4.5) and body control make him a one-of-a-kind in this year’s corner class. His ability to slide his feet laterally is unbelievable and his balance is a rarity.

He was the best player on what was historically one of the greatest defenses of all time.

Kirkpatrick is a can’t-miss future All Pro.

Courtney Upshaw, OLB

Upshaw’s trophy case is overflowing.

Upshaw just won Defensive Player of the Game in the championship thanks to his part in surrendering 39 rushing yards to LSU.

That award will be placed next to his first-team All-SEC trophy and first-team All-American honor.

He is one of the most feared pass-rushers in the nation and has a very similar style to Broncos rookie sensation Von Miller.

At 6'2", 265, tight ends can’t block him and defensive ends can’t handle his speed. Upshaw will be right on the border of a top-10 pick.

Trent Richardson, RB

The 5'11", 225-pound back is a physical freak and it was his speed that ended up being the knockout blow against LSU. His desire and will to win are off the charts. He was getting pounded play after play and still ended up with over 90 yards.

What Richardson showed to scouts on Monday was the nail in the coffin. There is not one flaw in his game and he is far and away the best running back available.

While the junior has yet to announce his decision, he would be a lunatic to pass up the current opportunity in front of him.