2012 NFL Draft Projections: Biggest Risers Who Will Star in the Pros

You can analyze an NFL prospect all you want before the start of the college football season, but the reality is that players naturally disappoint and surprise when it's all said and done.

This season has seen several prospects rise astronomically, taking advantage of their abilities and showing us something we hadn't seen from them before.

Here are three of the biggest risers in the 2012 draft class.

3. Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Michael Floyd was always seen as a special athlete, but off-the-field issues put a damper on his expectations this season.

Well, Floyd has apparently put all those issues to rest. He came out determined this season, catching 100 balls for over 1,100 yards and nine touchdowns despite inconsistent quarterback play at Notre Dame.

Floyd has the strength and leaping ability to be a threat in press coverage or down the field, and I see him going to the Philadelphia Eagles at No. 15 overall after being a borderline first-rounder to start the season.

2. Nick Perry, DE/OLB, USC

Nick Perry had a lackluster sophomore season, but he came back with a vengeance in his junior season at USC, which led to him declaring for the NFL draft.

Perry has the quickness and athleticism to be a big-time speed pass-rusher off the edge, and he exhibits the skill set to be a 4-3 defensive end or a 3-4 outside linebacker in the pros. He needs to bulk up a little bit, but I really like this kid.

I see former USC head coach Pete Carroll and the Seattle Seahawks drafting him at No. 12 overall.

1. Courtney Upshaw, OLB, Alabama

Courtney Upshaw was either a fringe first-rounder or a late first-round prospect for most draft experts to start the season.

But after his season with Alabama, in which he won Defensive MVP honors in the BCS Championship Game, I could legitimately see Upshaw being a top-10 pick in the NFL draft.

Upshaw's blend of strength, athleticism and determination project him as a potential star in the NFL. He was all over the place this season for the Crimson Tide, racking up 52 tackles, 9.5 sacks and a 45-yard interception for a touchdown. He had six tackles and a sack against LSU in the BCS title game.

Given the Buffalo Bills' need for a pass-rushing threat at OLB, I see them drafting Upshaw at No. 10 overall.