2012 NFL Draft Projections: Top Prospects with Most to Prove at Scouting Combine

The 2012 NFL Scouting Combine isn't the be-all and end-all of the draft process, but it is the most important interview the soon-to-be rookies will ever face.

With the Senior Bowl now in the rear-view mirror, all the invited prospects—underclassmen included—will be exclusively training for the events of the combine.

While majority of it is physical, there are many mental components and they hold just as much importance to teams as the 40-yard dash time does.

Some players will be out to verify their high draft status while others are out to put themselves on the map.

Here are a few of the top prospects with the most to prove to teams.

Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

The former Florida cornerback showed his athleticism and on-field talent at the Senior Bowl, but it is the interview room that will make or break Jenkins' stock.

Physically, he's a first-round talent with game-changing ability.

Whether or not he's grown up since his off-the-field trouble in Gainesville remains to be seen.

We'll see Jenkins look good on the field, but his stock is tied to his character.

Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

The junior cornerback put his top-10 potential in jeopardy by getting arrested for marijuana possession shortly after declaring for the draft.

Kirkpatrick has a unique combination of size, speed and athleticism, but much like Jenkins will have a lot of questions to answer.

It will also be interesting to see his timed speed because, at 6'2" and only 192 pounds, he's going to fill out a bit throughout his career.

Quinton Coples, DE, UNC

Much like Jenkins, Coples backed up his physical hype at the Senior Bowl and showcased to scouts why he could be so good.

At 6'6", 282 pounds, Coples possesses the size and athleticism to simply dominate opponents.

He'll shine as an athlete, but there are some things teams want to hear from him about his poor production and work ethic during the 2011 season.

There were even rumors of him turning down his coach's request to shift back inside to defensive tackle this year.