2012 NFL Draft: 4 Underrated Prospects That Will Have Immediate Impacts in NFL

When it comes to any draft, there are always those players projected and selected as high picks who actually turn out to be big busts and bad investments for their team.

On the same token, there are all aways those players who fly under the radar during the draft process, but end up coming in and making immediate impacts on their teams.

These guys often become a fan favorite in their hero-like role.

For this article we are going to discuss four underrated players who could make an impact for a team immediately.

Vinny Curry

Marshall defensive end Vinny Curry is projected as a third-to-fourth round prospect and doesn’t seem to be getting the respect he deserves. Perhaps it’s because Curry is considered a tweener, or due to the small school he attended, but Curry’s dominance throughout college is undeniable. 

Named Conference USA defensive player of the year during his senior season, Curry recorded 11 sacks, 44 tackles, and 22 tackles for a loss.  During his junior season he recorded 12 sacks, 44 tackles, and 18 tackles for a loss. 

During the Senior Bowl, Curry likely helped his stock a lot, impressing in the week of practices leading up to the game and recording two sacks during it. 

At 6’4”, 263 pounds, Curry could bounce around from defensive end to outside linebacker and he will definitely be a steal in the draft.

Cordy Glenn

Georgia guard Cordy Glenn is the type of player who could be utilized as a versatile offensive line weapon for a team. 

At 6’6”, 346 pounds, Glenn is very big and powerful, as well as showing great work ethic so far throughout the draft process. 

During Senior Bowl week, Glenn jumped around from left tackle to left guard, and although he could still use work at tackle, he faired very well at his natural position of guard.

Vontaze Burfict

Arizona State linebacker, Vontaze Burfict, is currently seen most frequently on the draft board as a second round pick or a late first rounder, however a team that gets Burfict will be getting a steal. 

An athletic monster, Burfict has tremendous upside and, with the help of a little leadership, could go a long way. 

Questions with Burfict right now regard his character, but if an appropriate team takes a chance on him and lines him up with the right teammates, they will surely benefit.

Lennon Creer

Going to the bottom of the underrated players' list, Louisiana Tech running back Lennon Creer is a prospect on the cusp who has really made a name for himself since college football season ended. 

A Shirne Bowl invite, Creer impressed many the week leading up to the game and especially during, taking home game MVP honors.

Shortly following the Shrine Bowl performance, Creer was added as a last minute invite to the Senior Bowl. 

At the Senior Bowl, Creer once again boosted his draft status, displaying his ability to block, decisiveness in the run game and vision allowing him to get downfield.

A team that takes a chance on Creer will get a kid who is hungry and has more to offer than he has been credited.