College Football Recruiting: What Impact Will the Top 100 Recruits Have in 2012?

February is a time when college football fans become enamored with their favorite school's recruiting class, as it usually takes a few weeks for the National Signing Day fever to wear off and cool down.

Fans love to boast about all the future stars their team just landed, but more often times than not, it takes a few years for many blue-chip recruits to really start to live up to their high school hype.

Still, every season, we do see a few freshmen step up and become instant freshman sensations, as we've seen in recent years with players like Clemson wide receiver Sammy Watkins in 2011 and South Carolina running back Marcus Lattimore in 2010.

So which of this year's big-name recruits will become breakout stars in 2012?

Here's a look at what type of impact we should expect out of the top 100 recruits of the 2012 class for the upcoming season.

1. WR Dorial Green-Beckham, Missouri

Dorial Green-Beckham is the type of receiver recruit who comes along very rarely.

The 6'6'', 220-pound physical specimen was just too big, too fast and too talented for the competition at Missouri's Hillcrest High School, as he consistently asserted his dominance over inferior competition.

Green-Beckham may have been one of the biggest names of the 2012 recruiting class, but he was also one of the biggest enigmas, as he remained surprisingly tight-lipped about his future in the weeks leading up to National Signing Day before thrilling his home state by choosing Missouri.

DGB has as much star potential as any other prospect in this year's class, and if he can live up to the hype and expectations, he's got the chance to be the top overall freshman of the 2012 season. 

Green-Beckham is the best wideout prospect since Julio Jones back in 2008, and the scary part is, he has a chance to be even better. 

SEC defenses had better start preparing now, because Dorial Green-Beckham looks like a special type of prodigy. 

2. DE Mario Edwards, Florida State

With the return of all four starters—defensive ends Brandon Jenkins and Bjoern Werner, and defensive tackles Everett Dawkins and Tim Jernigan—Florida State's defensive line was already shaping up to be one of the most talented in the country.

But now that No. 1 defensive end recruit Mario Edwards is set to join the party, that may just push the Seminoles' defensive front four over the top.

Edwards will have to wait his turn behind Jenkins and Werner, but make no mistake about it, coach Jimbo Fisher will find a way to implement his rare skills next season.

Over the next few years, the 6'4'', 275-pound blue-chip prospect has the type of physical ability to develop into a true force coming off the edge for the Seminoles.

3. RB Johnathan Gray, Texas

Texas finished with one of the top-rated recruiting classes in the country this year, and the true prize of the group was RB Johnathan Gray

The Longhorns already have a budding star in their backfield with Malcolm Brown, and now they're going to have a perfect complement to Brown next year when Gray, who holds the national high school football record with 205 career touchdowns, joins the mix in Austin.

The 5'11'', 190-pound playmaker dominated opposing defenses since his freshman year in high school, and proved he was just too much for opposing peers.

It will be interesting to see if he can come up with the same type of huge runs in the Big 12 next season.

4. S Landon Collins, Alabama

Star safety prospect Landon Collins made headlines for all of the wrong reasons when his mom upstaged him during his commitment announcement at the Under Armour All-American Game back in early January.

Still, just because Collins became a viral celebrity for his mom's silly antics, that shouldn't take away from all that the 5-star prospect was able to accomplish during in high school and the bright future that awaits him in Tuscaloosa. 

Collins is probably the most athletically gifted defender in the entire 2012 recruiting class, and he has the chance to follow in the footsteps of Mark Barron and Robert Lester to become the next great Alabama safety. 

More than anything, Nick Saban loves to mold extraordinarily talented athletes into superior defensive backs, and he'll have a great chance to do that once Collins steps foot on campus. 

5. OT D.J. Humphries, Florida

DJ Humphries, the top-rated offensive tackle in the 2012 class, has been committed to Florida since before his senior season even started.

That gave Gators fans the opportunity to salivate over the beastly lineman for six months before National Signing Day rolled around, where he made it official that he was indeed coming to Gainesville. 

The 6'5''', 265-pound North Carolina product may not be the biggest tackle prospect we've seen, but he's one of the most athletic we've coma across in the past decade. 

Humphries has the type of athleticism to develop into an absolute shut down-type of pass-blocker, and if he adds a few more pounds to his frame, he should be able to assert his dominance as a run-blocker as well. 

Freshman standout Chaz Green may be entrenched at one tackle spot, but Humphries will definitely be capable of giving Matt Patchan and Xavier Nixon some serious competition for the other spot.

6. DT Eddie Goldman, Florida State

Not many recruits in the 2012 recruiting class are as intimidating as big 5-star defensive tackle Eddie Goldman.

The 6'4'', 310-pound monster was a dominant force in the middle of Friendship Collegiate Academy's defense. 

His combination of size, quickness and pure power caught the attention of almost every major school in the country. 

Luckily for Florida State, the Seminoles were able to land the monstrous tackle's services, and Goldman will add great depth to a defensive line that is already one of the deepest in college football. 

Though he's likely going to have to sit behind Everett Dawkins in his first season, Goldman and Tim Jernigan should form a dynamic defensive tackle duo in Tallahassee for years to come. 

7. DE Noah Spence, Ohio State

If you were building the perfect pass-rushing defensive end from scratch, the end result would most likely bear a strong resemblance to highly touted 5-star prospect Noah Spence. 

Spence is one of the top pass-rushers in the country. He's got the type of first-step quickness and speed off the edge that you just don't see very often at the high school level. 

At 6'4'', 245 pounds, Spence has the type of frame to add some bulk and still maintain his speed. If he can get in the weight room and put on some more muscle, he could develop into a dominant force as both a pass-rushing phenom and a run-stopper.

He'll be hard to keep off the field even as a freshman, especially in obvious passing situations.

8. CB Tracy Howard, Miami

Although he never officially committed to Florida, many recruiting analysts thought that top-rated cornerback Tracy Howard was a near-lock to end up with the Gators.

But Al Golden swooped in and must have really wooed the Miramar, FL native during his official visit to Miami on the weekend before National Signing Day, as Howard spurned the Gators in favor of the Hurricanes.

Howard cited the opportunity for immediate playing time as one of the key reasons for heading to Coral Gables, and it will be interesting to see what type of impact he can make as a freshman.

Brandon McGee seems to have one of the corner spots locked down, but the other spot could be up for grabs in fall. Howard has the type of elite talent to come in and impress coaches right from the get-go.

9. WR Stefon Diggs, Uncommitted

With remarkable speed and burst off the line, Stefon Diggs embarrassed countless popposing defensive backs.

Diggs is one of the most explosive and athletic players in the country, and he shined as both a receiver and defensive back for Our Lady of Good Counsel High School in Maryland. 

Any time Diggs had the ball in his hands, he was a threat to take it to the house, and most of the time, he did.

The 6'0'', 185-pound speedster will announce his commitment on Feb. 10 and he has reportedly narrowed his choices down to to Auburn, Cal, Florida, Maryland and Ohio State. 

No matter where Diggs ends up, he has the chance to be an instant star in the mold of last year's top  freshman receiver, Sammy Watkins. 

10. S Shaq Thompson, Washington

Shaq Thompson was one of the many blue-chip prospects who jumped off the Cal ship after defensive line coach Tosh Lupoi left the Bears to head up to Washington.

Thompson ended up following Lupoi up to Seattle, where he’ll enter the program as the most heralded recruit of the Huskies’ 2012 class.

The 5-star safety has the potential to be an instant difference-maker on defense in the Pac-12, but with Sean Parker, Justin Glenn, Will Shamburger and Nate Fellner all returning, he certainly won’t be able to just walk into the starting lineup like he would have at Cal.

11. WR Nelson Agholor, USC

The phrase "athletic freak" gets thrown around far too often in the sports world these days, but new USC WR Nelson Agholor certainly fits the bill. 

Agholor was the biggest get for Lane Kiffin in a 2012 class that was low on quantity, due to continued NCAA scholarship restrictions, but high on quality. 

The 6'2'', 180-pound Tampa native is a blur when he has the ball in his hands, and though the Trojans didn't need another dangerous receiver for 2012—given that they already have two of the top receivers in the country, Robert Woods and Marqise Lee—they managed to get their hands on a blue-chip prospect.

12. RB Trey Williams, Texas A&M

Trey Williams may have been overlooked just a bit in the state of Texas due to the exploits of fellow star running back Johnathan Gray, but there was undoubtedly never a time any his opponents overlooked him.

Although he's only 5'8'' and 180 pounds, Williams is an absolute beast.

He has the type of rare combination of power, balance, quickness and vision always making him a big-play threat.

With Cyrus Gray gone, and Christine Michael still rehabbing an injury, Williams will have a great opportunity to step in and immediately make a name for himself in Texas A&M's backfield.

13. QB Jameis Winston, Florida State

Quarterback Jameis Winston put an end to all speculation and made his commitment to Florida State official a few days after National Signing Day.

The move to Tallahassee makes a ton of sense, considering Winston shares many similarities to current Florida State QB E.J. Manuel. 

The big, mobile dual-threat quarterback can make plays with both his feet and arm, and even though he won't see the field much in 2012, he seems destined to be Florida State's quarterback of the future.

And Seminoles fans will simply have to hope that he turns out to be the next Manuel, and not the next Xavier Lee.

14. DT Ellis McCarthy, UCLA

UCLA had one of the most surprising 2012 recruiting classes, as new coach Jim Mora Jr. was able to reel in some terrific talent with just a few weeks on the job. 

The top prospect Mora was able to get his hands on was defensive tackle Ellis McCarthy.

McCarthy is a 5-star prospect out of Monrovia, California, who had originally committed to Cal.

The 6’5’’, 310-pound McCarthy is a disruptive force who can cause major problems for an opposing offensive line, and he should be able to either light a fire under Cassius Marsh and Donovan Carter, or steal one of their spots for 2012.

15. OT Kyle Murphy, Stanford

Kyle Murphy was the cream of the crop in Stanford’s stacked 2012 O-line class. 

Murphy, who chose the Cardinal over USC, is the type of talented tackle who can come in and immediately compete for the left tackle vacated by Jonathan Martin.

The 6’7’’, 275-pound California native has the type of size, agility, footwork and power to be the next Martin, but he first has to show that he’s ready to handle the position early in his career.

16. RB Keith Marshall, Georgia

Even though his pass-blocking was absolutely atrocious and he was a bit moody, Isaiah Crowell had about as good a freshman season as anyone could have hoped in 2011, as he rushed for 850 yards and scored six touchdowns. 

Crowell could use another top-notch back to push him, though, and Keith Marshall should do just that next season.

Like Crowell, the 5’11’’, 190-pound Marshall is another highly touted prospect who looks to have a bright future ahead of him in the SEC.

However, it will be interesting to see if Crowell and Marshall can work together, or if they’ll simply fight for as many carries as they can get their hands on.

17. DE Darius Hamilton, Rutgers

Much respect is due to new Rutgers coach Kyle Flood, who managed to keep the Scarlet Knights' 2012 class together after the sudden departure of Greg Schiano. 

The most impressive task that Flood was able to accomplish was getting 5-star DE Darius Hamilton to sign after Schiano's exit. 

Hamilton could have picked any school in America, but he chose to stay in his home state of New Jersey and play for the Scarlet Knights, something you don't see many of Jersey's blue-chip prospects do, besides the likes of Savon Huggins and Anthony Davis. 

The 6'4'', 245-pound Hamilton will be one of the most recognizable names on Rutgers' roster the day he walks onto campus, and he should be the leading candidate to replace either Manny Abreau or Justin Francis at defensive end.

18. WR Davonte Neal, Uncommitted

Like Stefon Diggs, Davonte Neal has decided to wait to finish up his visits before he makes his decision.

Neal will take one final visit to Arizona before making a choice between the Wildcats, Arkansas, Notre Dame, North Carolina and Ohio State.

The Arizona native is one of the fastest and most electric athletes in the 2012 class, and he's the type of difference-making playmaker that can single-handedly change the complexion of an entire offense. 

19. RB T.J. Yeldon, Alabama

One of the biggest recruiting coups this year was Alabama stealing away highly touted running back T.J. Yeldon from archrival Auburn. 

It's true, Alabama didn't exactly need Yeldon, as Eddie Lacy, Jalston Fowler and Dee Hart should be able to pick up Trent Richardson's slack just fine, but adding the versatile playmaker to the backfield gives Alabama's ground game a true spark, and Yeldon is definitely good enough to demand carries as a freshman. 

20. OT Zach Banner, USC

USC may have lost out on Kyle Murphy, but the Trojans were still able to land one of the top offensive tackles of the 2012 class, Zach Banner. 

Banner is a gigantic 6’9’’, 310-pound specimen who obviously has the type of desired frame you’re looking for in a potential “franchise” type of tackle.

We know Banner has the size, the strength and the agility to handle stepping right into the starting lineup, and now with Matt Kalil’s departure, it will be interesting to see if the Washington native can step right in and lay claim to the position.

21. CB Ronald Darby, Florida State

For a while, it appeared that Ronald Darby would be a member of Notre Dame's 2012 recruiting class, but after de-committing from the Irish back in early January, Darby eventually settled on Florida State.

The Seminoles already have one of the top cornerback combos in the country with Xavier Rhodes and Greg Reid, but with Reid set to be a senior next season, and Rhodes likely eying an early exit to the 2013 NFL draft, Darby should be able to crack the starting lineup after a learning season in 2012. 

22. DT Malcom Brown, Texas

Johnathan Gray may be the big name of Texas' 2012 recruiting class, but DT Malcom Brown may have just as big an impact for the Longhorns on defense as Gray does offense.

The 6'2'', 280-pound tackle may have to wait his turn behind Ashton Dorsey and Calvin Howell, but once he does get his time to shine, watch out, because Brown has the chance to be the type of tackle that can just be flat out unblockable for stretches of games.

Texas has produced a lot of notable defensive linemen in recent years, and Brown looks like he's the next in line. 

23. LB Josh Harvey-Clemons, Georgia

Josh Harvey-Clemons was one of the stars of National Signing Day, but probably not for the reason he may have wanted, as Harvey-Clemons had to face some internal family struggles after announcing his decision to sign with Georgia. 

After convincing his family that Athens was the right place for him, and keeping Bulldogs fans on edge for a full 24 hours, Harvey-Clemons eventually sent in his letter-of-intent, which must have given coach Mark Richt a huge sense of relief. 

The 6'5'', 205-pound Georgia native was one of Richt's top targets, and while Georgia's linebacker corps is returning a ton of talent, look for Harvey-Clemons to find his way onto the field as a situational player in his freshman campaign.

24. S Eddie Williams, Alabama

Eddie Williams may not have been the Internet celebrity that his future safety counterpart at Alabama, Landon Collins, turned out to be, but Williams has the chance to be every bit as good as Collins does in Tuscaloosa. 

The athletic Florida native has the type of big, strong frame to intimidate opposing offenses just by stepping onto the field. 

Williams can fly from sideline to sideline without a problem, and he's the type of explosive athlete that the Alabama coaching staff covets. 

25. WR Thomas Johnson, Texas A&M

Texas A&M may have lost Bralon Addison on National Signing Day, but the Aggies actually gained something better when Thomas Johnson announced that he was headed to College Station. 

The Dallas native possesses a great burst and a reliable pair of hands, and with Jeff Fuller leaving, Johnson has an opening to come in and make an immediate impact for an A&M team that will be making the move to the SEC in 2012. 

Ryan Swope may still be leader of the Aggies' receiver corps, but it shouldn't take long for Johnson to grab that title. 

26. DE Jonathan Bullard, Florida

Will Muschamp has to be excited about stealing Dante Fowler Jr. from Florida State, but he has to be even more excited about being able to sign a blue-chip defensive end like Jonathan Bullard.

Bullard is a tenacious defender who has a magnet for the football seemingly embedded in his helmet, and it will be interesting to see what Muschamp and Co. can do with him in Gainesville. 

27. WR Cyrus Jones, Alabama

It almost doesn't seem fair that Alabama was able to stockpile so many great athletes into its 2012 class. One of the best of the bunch was Maryland native Cyrus Jones. 

The versatile Jones has the type of diverse skill set to line up at a multitude of positions, but it's expected that he'll likely end up at wide receiver, as he's too much of a playmaker to stick on defense. 

Athletically, Jones seems like a perfect in the SEC, and it probably won't take long for him to gain the trust of QB A.J. McCarron as one of his reliable targets. 

28. DT Ondre Pipkins, Michigan

William Campbell is the favorite to take over for Mike Martin at nose tackle at MIchigan next season, but watch out for incoming freshman Ondre Pipkins, who perfectly fits the mold of what a big run-stuffer should be.

The 6'3'', 325-pound Pipkins is big, strong, powerful and surprisingly quick for his size, and he's the type of tackle that can absolutely feast on double teams all game long.

The job will be Campbell's to lose, but if Pipkins shows up in great shape, the 4-star recruit could really wow coaches in fall camp.

29. WR Shaq Roland, South Carolina

With Alshon Jeffery gone, the South Carolina offense is going to need a receiver to step up and fill the No. 1 role in 2012. While Ace Sanders, Nick Jones and Bruce Ellington are all likely candidates to fill that void, a real name to watch out for is incoming freshman Shaq Roland. 

The South Carolina native may only be 6'1", but he plays much bigger than he measures, as he’s shown he’s adept at making key plays when counted upon.

Roland should develop into one of Connor Shaw’s most consistent targets sooner rather than later, and while he may never lead the SEC in receiving like Jeffery did in 2010, it might not take him very long to have South Carolina fans asking, "Alshon who?"

30. QB Zach Kline, California

My favorite quarterback prospect of the 2012 recruiting class, Zach Kline, still looks every bit a teenager, but some of the throws he made at California's Sam Ramon Valley High School certainly were reminiscent of the throws you see at the college level every Saturday. 

Kline committed to Cal at the start of his junior season, and unlike many top recruits who pledged their services to the Bears and then bolted, he actually stayed true to his word. 

The 6'2'', 210-pound incoming freshman may have to wait a year behind Zach Maynard, but he appears to be the Bears' quarterback of the future, and it certainly looks like a bright future indeed. 

31. OT Andrus Peat, Stanford

Many recruiting analysts felt that it was basically a lock that Andrus Peat would end up playing with his brother at Nebraska, but Peat surprised everyone when he announced he will be a member of the Stanford Cardinal. 

Physically, Peat is one of the most talented offensive tackles to come out of the high school ranks in years, and he only further solidifies what is shaping up to be possibly the greatest offensive line recruiting class that any one school has ever pulled in.

The 6’7’’, 305-pound Peat will compete to take over for Jonathan Martin at left tackle, and he’s got all the tools to become an instant starter in Palo Alto.

32. CB Terry Richardson, Michigan

JT Floyd and Blake Countess are going to be penciled in as the starters for Michigan at cornererback going into fall camp, and while Floyd is all but assured a starting spot, don't be surprised if Terry Richardson gives Countess a run for his money.

Richardson is one of the most athletic defensive backs in the entire 2012 recruiting class, and the Michigan native looks like he has the type of talent to be an immediate contributor in the secondary.

The 5'9'', 160-pound incoming freshman is going to have to bulk up if he wants to see some serious snaps in 2012, but if he can add some muscle to his frame over the summer, he could make an instant impact in Ann Arbor, given the type of speed and playmaking ability he possesses.

33. DE/DT Arik Armstead, Oregon

Arik Armstead's recruitment was one of the most mysterious journeys this year, as Armstead never gave any true indication as to which way he was leaning after he de-committed from USC back in October. 

Eventually, though, Armstead let it be known to the world that he will head up to Eugene to play for Oregon. 

Although he would have been a better fit as a 3-4 defensive end in a system like Cal's or Notre Dame's, Armstead just couldn't resist the idea of playing for a consistent national title contender. 

The 6'8'', 280-pound Armstead has the size of a defensive tackle and the athleticism of a defensive end, and it will be interesting to see how he fits into Oregon's defensive line these next few years. 

34. QB Gunner Kiel, Notre Dame

Gunner Kiel made some big waves in the college football world when it was revealed that Kiel had reneged on his commitment to LSU, the second such pledge he had made, and instead decided to stay in his home state of Indiana to play for Notre Dame.

Kiel was already one of the spotlight players of the 2012 class, as he was one the top-rated quarterback prospects in the country, but after making big news for the last-second switch, he will now be put under a microscope in South Bend, and it will be interesting to see how he responds. 

After leading his team to two mediocre 8-5 seasons in his first two campaigns, Brian Kelly knows that 2012 will be a make-or-break season. It remains to be seen if Kelly decides to throw his freshman quarterback to the fire, or if he will stick with his veteran signal-caller Tommy Rees. 

35. DT Tommy Schutt, Ohio State

Tommy Schutt fits the profile of what you expect a typical Big Ten interior defensive linemen to look like.

Shutt's big, strong, physical and he plays with a certain mean streak and toughness that can really wear opposing offensive linemen down. 

The 6'1'', 290-pound defensive tackle bears a strong resemblance to former Buckeye Quinn Pitcock, and he plays with a similar type of style and energy.

Schutt will have to wait his turn behind Garrett Goebel and Johnathan Hankins, but once he gets in, he should add some serious ferocity to the middle of Ohio State's defensive line. 

36. RB Duke Johnson, Miami

Miami may be losing Lamar Miller two years too early, but the Hurricanes should still have a strong backfield 2011 with Mike James coming back, and the addition of Duke Johnson. 

The Miami native is one of the top-rated recruits of the 2012 class, and he looks like he has the chance to be the school's next star back.

Johnson has all the traits that all truly special backs possess, and it may not take long for him to carve his name in the sand in Coral Gables.

37. LB Jabari Ruffin, USC

USC already has two of the top linebackers in the country with Hayes Pullard and Dion Bailey, but the Trojans managed to add one of the top linebacker prospects of the 2012 class, Jabari Ruffin, to the fold as well. 

Ruffin was one of the most coveted recruits in the state of California this year, and the 6'4'', 230-pound 'backer is already built to be a star in L.A.

Even though he'll likely be overshadowed by Pullard and Bailey for the next few years, don't be surprised if Ruffin manages to break out and make his presence felt with some big hits and key stops in 2012. 

38. OT Kyle Kalis, Michigan

Now that last year's starter, Mark Huyge, is gone, the right tackle job is going to be up for grabs at Michigan. One player that could step in and take over at the position is 5-star offensive tackle prospect Kyle Kalis, the gem of Michigan's 2012 recruiting class.

Kalis was rated as one of the top offensive tackle recruits in the country, and with his type of skill set, he's perfectly built to thrive in Michigan's run-blocking scheme.

The 6'5'', 300-pounder already has the size and the strength to handle Big Ten defensive linemen, he just has to work on his technique.

Kalis could receive some competition from Mike Shofield, but Shofield could also start at left guard, which could open up room for the young freshman to step in and make a name for himself in 2012.

39. WR Trey Metoyer, Oklahoma

Kenny Stills and Jaz Reynolds may be the two big names of Oklahoma's receiving corps in 2012, but the Sooners have plenty of incoming freshman receivers who will be looking to get their foot in the door next season, and the most capable and talented of them all is Trey Metoyer. 

The 6'2'', 195-pound Metoyer certainly passes the eyeball test, and he's already a more physically intimidating receiver than either Stills or Reynolds. 

With the combination of size, speed, hands, route-running ability and overall explosiveness that Metoyer has to offer, he should be able to step in and become a reliable receiving target in Oklahoma's explosive offensive attack. 

40. DE Adolphus Washington, Ohio State

Not only does Adolphus Washington have one of the coolest names of the 2012 recruiting class, he also happens to be one of the top overall defensive recruits. 

Washington has the power forward-type of build that we're seeing more and more of at DE these days. 

He may still be a little on the raw side, but if Washington can improve his technique and add some more moves to his arsenal, the 6'5'', 240-pounder has the size and athleticism to develop into a frightening terror coming off the edge in Ohio State's 4-3 defense.

Now that Mike Vrabel is taking over as defensive line coach, Washington will have a great teacher to learn from. If he can apply what he learns to his craft, the intimidating end has the chance to develop into a stud early in his career in Columbus. 

41. CB Tee Shepard, Notre Dame

With last year's two starting cornerbacks Robert Blanton and Gary Gray both gone, cornerback is going to be one of the biggest question mark positions for Notre Dame going into the season. But luckily for the Irish, they have one of the top cornerback recruits of the 2012 class already enrolled in South Bend. 

Tee Shepard, a 4-star prospect out of California, may be a little upset that his cousin, WR Deontay Greenberry, opted to go to Houston instead, but Shepard can't worry about that now, as he has to remain focused on winning one of the two vacant starting cornerback jobs. 

The 6'1'', 180-pound Shepard has the type of size, speed and coverage skills to compete for a starting spot as a freshman, and if he can pick up all of the nuances of Notre Dame's defense, the Irish staff might just gain enough faith in him during fall camp to throw him out there in 2012. 

42. TE Kent Taylor, Florida

Tight end may be a position that's slowly being phased out of college football with the emphasis now predominantly shifting towards spread offenses, but there are a few athletic receiving tight ends that are now trying to simply continue the evolution of the position, instead of giving into the extinction of it, and one of those players is future Florida Gator Kent Taylor. 

Taylor is this year's top overall tight end recruit, and he's the type of "receiver stuck in a tight end's body" kind of player that is reminiscent of former highly touted tight end recruits like Nick O'Leary and Kyle Rudolph. 

The 6'5'', 220-pound Taylor is a dangerous weapon who can easily create mismatches with both his size and natural athleticism. He and Jordan Reed could become a dangerous duo over these next few years. 

43. OG Joshua Garnett, Stanford

Stanford's offensive line looks loaded for the next few years, and one of the main reasons why is because Joshua Garnett chose the Cardinal over Michigan. 

Garnett may not know the difference between Kobe and LeBron, but he certainly knows how to block, and he fits the profile of the type of smart, technically sound offensive lineman like Jonathan Martin and David DeCastro, who both flourished in Palo Alto in recent years. 

The 6'5'', 295-pound Washington native will certainly have to deal with competition for playing time, given all the talented linemen Stanford reeled in this year, but Garnett should develop into a quality starter for the Cardinal early in his career considering how perfectly his skill set matches what Stanford is trying to do with its blocking schemes. 

44. S Elijah Shumate, Notre Dame

Notre Dame may not have been able to land CB Ronald Darby, but the Irish did manage to reel in another highly touted defensive back, Elijah Shumate, who played for New Jersey's Don Bosco Prep.

Shumate's the type of safety who could come to South Bend and immediately join the competition to fill the void that Harrison Smith left.

Shumate is a big, physical and rangy defender who can fly around and make plays all over the field.

The 4-star safety is a perfect fit for Notre Dame's defense, and he's got the type of talent to be an immediate contributor. 

45. QB Devin Fuller, UCLA

Devin Fuller, who played for Old Tappan High School in New Jersey, is one of the fastest and most athletic recruits in the 2012 class.

His game-breaking speed will be a valuable addition to the UCLA offense, whether he ends up playing quarterback, running back or wide receiver. 

Fuller said he wants to play quarterback at the college level, and he may just have the arm to do it, but even though he likely won't be able to find his way under center this season, since he's still too raw, look for the Bruins coaching staff to draw up some packages and plays to highlight the game-changing playmaker's amazing ability.

46. DE Dante Fowler Jr., Florida

Dante Fowler Jr. was expected to sign with Florida State on National Signing Day, but he surprisingly switched to Florida at the last minute.

Will Muschamp convinced Fowler that he would be a much better fit in Florida's defensive scheme and that he would have the chance to play early in his career, possibly sharing snaps with Ronald Powell at the "Buck" position as a freshman.

Stealing away the 5-star defensive end was certainly a major coup for the Gators, as he's the type of super-athletic defender that could grow into a special player down the line.

47. CB De'Vante Harris, Texas A&M

Texas A&M's secondary was absolutely atrocious in 2011, ranking 109th in the country, but at least the Aggies should get a boost from adding one of the top cornerback prospects of the 2012 class, De'Vante Harris, to the mix. 

The 5'11'', 160-pound Harris still has to grow into his body and learn how to be an all-around cornerback, but the raw ability he flashed during his time at Texas' Horn High School was truly remarkable. 

With Coryell Judie and Terrence Frederick both gone, Harris will have the opportunity to seize a starting spot as soon as he puts the pads on in fall camp. 

48. WR Deontay Greenberry, Houston

Deontay Greenberry broke every Notre Dame fan's heart when he pulled off the biggest shocker of National Signing Day and switched from the Irish to the Houston Cougars at the very last second. 

Greenberry, who was California's Mr. Football as a senior, is one of the most decorated recruits to ever sign with Houston.

The 6'3'', 185-pound former Irish commit should start off as a valuable red-zone weapon for the Cougars, as they begin life without record-setting quarterback Case Keenum. 

49. S Travis Blanks, Clemson

Clemson already has one of the best safety tandems in the ACC with Rashard Hall and Jonathan Meeks, but with Hall and Meeks both set to be seniors next season, it was certainly smart for the Tigers to bring in a top-rated safety in this year's class with Travis Blanks. 

Blanks is a quarterback's worst nightmare as he has great football sense and instinct. He loves to make plays whether it's 40 yards down the field in pass coverage or right at the line of scrimmage as a run-stopper. 

The 6'1'', 195-pound Blanks will have to sit a year behind Hall and Meeks, but after that, it's go time. 

50. RB Mike Davis, South Carolina

Marcus Lattimore's knee will be one of the most watched issues in college football in 2012, as Lattimore looks to bounce back after suffering a torn ligament this past season.

If Lattimore isn't 100 percent by the time the season rolls around, one player who could be able to pick up the slack is Mike Davis. 

Davis, who played for Georgia's Stephenson High School, is one of the top-rated running back recruits in the country, and he's the type of quicker, shiftier back that should be a perfect complement to the bigger, more powerful Lattimore. 

51. DE/DT Aziz Shittu, Stanford

Besides from having one of the best names in the 2012 recruiting class (alongside Adolphus Washington), Aziz Shittu also happens to be one of the most talented and versatile defensive linemen prospects.

Given the type of size, strength and athleticism he possesses, Shittu should be a great fit as a defensive end in Stanford's 3-4 system. 

The 6'3'', 275-pound incoming freshman will be one of the top candidates to replace Matthew Masifilo, and Shittu has the type of talent to become one of the top freshman impact players in the Pac-12 next season. 

52.CB Brian Poole, Florida

Florida may have lost out on 5-star blue-chip cornerback Tracy Howard, but the Gators were able to make up for it by hauling in Brian Poole, who played for Southeast High School in Bradenton, FL.

Marcus Roberson and Cody Riggs may be penciled in as the starters going into the season, but Poole definitely has the chance to come in and play early in certain packages.

He could follow in the footsteps of guys like Joe Haden and Janoris Jenkins and become Florida's next coveted NFL cornerback prospect within a few years. 

53. OT John Theus, Georgia

Georgia will be losing three key starters from last year's offensive line, but the Bulldogs are also gaining one of the top incoming freshman lineman in college football, John Theus. 

The 6'6'', 290-pound Theus already looks the part, and if he can refine his technique, put in the work he needs in the weight room, and continue to develop, the 4-star tackle has the chance to be Georgia's next highly touted offensive lineman.

54. WR Cayleb Jones, Texas

Texas may not have a consistent quarterback to rely on just yet, but if one does step up in 2012, he's going to have two top targets in Mike Davis and Jaxon Shipley. 

Davis and Shipley will be Texas' two top receiving threats in 2012, but the Longhorns will also have a dangerous freshman to unleash in Cayleb Jones. 

Jones, who will be sticking in Austin to play for his hometown team, was one of the most coveted receiver prospects of the 2012 recruiting class, and he has the type of speed and playmaking ability to be an instant threat for Texas' offense as a true freshman. 

55. OT Jordan Diamond, Auburn

Auburn fans had to be patient waiting for Jordan Diamond's announcement, but once they finally heard his decision, it was time to celebrate. 

Diamond is one of the top O-line prospects of the 2012 class, and he could be an immediate contributor to the Tigers' front five next season. 

Brandon Mosley leaves a big hole to fill at tackle, and Diamond could be the perfect replacement. 

He may still be a little rough around the edges, but the Chicago native looks like he's a big piece of clay waiting to be molded by Auburn's offensive coaching staff.

If they do the proper work with him, he has the chance to be a special lineman for the Tigers over the next few years. 

56. DE/LB Jordan Jenkins, Georgia

Georgia is on a nice little run of producing standout outside linebackers. 

First it was Rennie Curan, then Justin Houston, and now it’s Jarvis Jones.

Jones is one of the SEC’s premier defenders, but he’ll likely have to pass the torch to somebody else after the 2012 season and keep the trend going, as he’ll likely enter the 2013 draft after the upcoming season.

Don’t be surprised if it’s Jordan Jenkins who turns out to be next in line.

Jenkins is one of the top pass-rushers in this year’s class, and he’s got the potential to turn into Georgia’s next big linebacker name.

57. LB Ukeme Eligwe, Florida State

Florida State may have lost out on Josh Harvey-Clemons, but the Seminoles still managed to land one of the top linebackers in the 2012 class, Ukeme Eligwe. 

The top tackler of 2011, Nigel Bradham, may be gone, but Florida State still returns four very talented linebackers for the upcoming season—Christian Jones, Vince Williams, Telvin Smith and Jeff Luc, which means Eligwe is really going to have his work cut out for him in trying to break into the lineup.

Still, the 4-star ‘backer definitely has the skills to make an early impact, and Eligwe looks like he could develop into Florida State’s next notable linebacker name in the years to come.

58. DE/LB Torshiro Davis, Texas

Losing Torshiro Davis to Texas was yet another tough pill for LSU to swallow, but you certainly won't see any Longhorns fans sending the Tigers sympathy cards any time soon. 

Davis' last-second switch, which spurned the Tigers, turned out to be a huge boost to Texas' already stellar 2012 class.

The defensive end/linebacker tweener has a similar skill set to former Texas defenders like Keenan Robinson and Sergio Kindle, and he 's the type of player who should flourish as an outside 'backer for Texas' defense.

With Robinson off to the NFL, it will be interesting to see how quickly Davis can make a name for himself in Austin.  

59. WR Joel Caleb, Virginia Tech

With Virginia Tech's top two receivers from 2011, Jarrett Boykin and Danny Coale, both gone, the Hokies will have to find some new playmakers for quarterback Logan Thomas.

Marcus Davis and D.J. Coles are both viable replacements, but Joel Caleb could also emerge as a top target for Thomas. 

Caleb will step foot on campus in Blacksburg this offseason and automatically be the fastest member of the receiver corps. However, he has to show that he's more than just a fast pair of wheels. 

If the 6'2'', 200-pound receiver can figure out all the different facets of the offense, he has the chance to be an instant playmaker for Virginia Tech's offense. 

60. QB Matt Davis, Texas A&M

After the departure of quarterback Ryan Tannehill, new Texas A&M coach Kevin Sumlin now has a big void to fill as he gets ready to lead the Aggies into the SEC.

What makes it easier for Sumlin is that he'll have have the chance to work with one of the most gifted prospects of the 2012 recruiting class, QB Matt Davis, for the entire offseason. 

The super-athletic Houston native seems destined to be A&M's quarterback of the future, but the question that has to be asked is, will he be A&M's quarterback for 2012?

Jameill Showers will have something to say about that, but Davis has has the type of arm strength and mobility to be a dangerous playmaker for the Aggies' offense. If he can pick up Sumlin's system quick enough, he'll definitely give Showers some strong competition this offseason.

61. DE/LB Eli Harold, Virginia

After finishing with an 8-4 record in the regular season in 2011, we're starting to see the type of foundation that coach Mike London is building at Virginia. 

All London needs to do now is add a few more explosive athletes to the Cavaliers roster, and then they can really start competing with the upper-echelon of the ACC. 

One player who should really add some playmaking ability to the Virginia defense is Eli Harold. 

If he can add a few pounds, the 6'4'', 215-pound Virginia Beach native has the type of frame to develop into a dynamic pass-rushing end in a few years.

With last year's top defensive lineman Cam Johnson gone, the Cavs are going to need some speed off the edge to make sure the defense stays sound, and that's something that Harold should have no problem helping them with, as long as he can bulk up a little bit over the summer. 

62. RB Rushel Shell, Pittsburgh

If Ray Graham is healthy, there’s no question he will be the featured back in Pittsburgh’s in 2012, but new head coach Paul Chryst showed during his time as Wisconsin’s offensive coordinator that he didn’t mind implementing a two-headed rushing attack, which should be good news for incoming freshman Rushel Shell. 

The 6’0’’, 210-pound Shell is a hard-nosed, strong and physical runner who is perfectly built for the type of offense that Chryst likes to run, and he should definitely be able to steal away a few carries from Graham next season.

63. OG Jessamen Dunker, Florida

Offensive tackle D.J. Humphries wasn’t the only highly touted offensive lineman that Florida was able to bring in with its 2012 class. 

Offensive guard Jessamen Dunker also looks like the type of talented trench warrior who can come in and battle for immediate playing time as a true freshman.

The 6’6’’, 315-pound Dunker is a big, physical specimen who has the type of strength and power to dominate in the running game.

The 4-star recruit will definitely have his eyes on winning the starting spot that Dan Wenger has left open. And with his type of skills, I wouldn’t bet against Dunker.

64. CB Geno Smith, Alabama

Geno Smith is already a hot name in most college football circles, but that’s because it was the West Virginia quarterback Geno Smith who elevated himself to near star status in 2011.

However, don’t be surprised if incoming freshman Alabama cornerback Geno Smith carves out his own reputation in the SEC in the coming years. 

Smith looks like he has the potential to be one of Alabama’s next great defensive backs, as the Georgia product has displayed the type of speed, footwork, backpedal, instincts and recognition skills that a coach like Nick Saban loves to see in a cornerback.

Smith may have to wait his turn behind Dee Milliner and John Fulton, but he’s definitely going to be in the hunt with Fulton to try to land the vacant starting cornerback spot left by Dre Kirkpatrick.

65. LB Kwon Alexander, LSU

Kwon Alexander may have torn his ACL early in his senior season, but the injury didn't wane the interest of some the top colleges in the country.

Alexander was still one of the most coveted linebacker recruits in the 2012 class, and after losing Torshiro Davis to Texas, LSU was glad that the Alabama native chose the Tigers in the end. 

If the 6'2'', 210-pound 'backer can return to full speed over the summer, he has a chance to make some real noise in fall camp and help solidify a linebacker group that is considered the most questionable unit of LSU's stacked defense. 

66. DT Jonathan Taylor, Georgia

Georgia already has two nose tackles that are immovable objects with John Jenkins and Kwame Geathers. But if that wasn't enough, the Bulldogs brought in another humongous giant to add to the middle of their defense with Jonathan Taylor. 

The 6'4'', 315-pound Taylor isn't just a big body either. He's remarkably gifted for his size, and he's the type of disruptive force that can not only eat up blocks, but shed them as well, as he excels in penetrating into the backfield and causing havoc for opposing offenses. 

67. OG Isaac Seumalo, Oregon State

Offensive guard may be one of the least heralded positions on the football field, however, it's also one of the most important, as being strong up the middle is crucial for offensive success. 

Oregon State certainly didn't experience much offensive success last season, as the Beavers finished 10th in the Pac-12 in total offense in 2011, but the addition of Isaac Seumalo will hopefully help remedy some of Oregon State's offensive woes. 

The 6'3'', 280-pound Seumalo decided to stay in Corvallis to play for his home town team even though he had more enticing offers from other Pac-12 schools such as Oregon, Stanford and USC. 

The Beavers will be grateful to have him, as the 4-star recruit has the type of strength and athleticism to excel as both a run-blocker and a pass-blocker.

68. RB Mario Pender, Florida State

Florida State is already relatively deep at running back with Devonta Freeman, James Wilder Jr. and Chris Thompson all coming back, and the Seminoles got even deeper with the addition of Mario Pender.

The 6'0'', 185-pound Pender has the three S's—size, strength and speed—that you look for in a running back.

While he may have some work to do trying to climb the depth chart, once the Florida native does get the ball in his hands, he should really impress onlookers with his explosive running ability.

69. WR Amari Cooper, Alabama

It will be interesting to see how Alabama's talented group of freshman receivers fits in with returning receivers such as Kenny Bell, Kevin Norwood, DeAndrew White and the recently reinstated Duron Carter.

One of the new names to watch in Tuscaloosa will be Amari Cooper, a Miami native, who was one of the most coveted recruits in the state of Florida this year. 

Cooper is explosiveness personified and he's a big play waiting to happen. 

Look for the 4-star receiver to state his case for playing time in fall camp, and don't be shocked if you see a video emerge from one of Alabama's practices that shows Cooper making an eye-opening grab. 

70. DE Channing Ward, Ole Miss

Mississippi had one of the most surprisingly strong recruiting classes this year, and new coach Hugh Freeze should be commended for the type of prospects he was able to sign, especially with the condition that Houston Nutt has left the program in. 

The biggest name that Freeze was able to land is Channing Ward, one of the top-rated defensive ends of the 2012 class. 

Ward chose to stay in his home state of Mississippi to play for the Rebels even though he had offers from more prominent SEC schools like Alabama, Arkansas, Auburn, Florida, Georgia and LSU. 

The decision to go to Oxford should pay off for the 4-star prospect, as Ward will now have the opportunity to earn some early playing time, and possibly take over the starting spot that Kentrell Lockett left open. 

71. WR Angelo Jean-Louis, Miami

Miami loses its two top receivers from last season, Tommy Streeter and Travis Benjamin, along with starting quarterback Jacory Harris, which means the Hurricanes' passing game will probably experience some growing pains.

One player who could help solve some of those problems is incoming freshman Angelo Jean-Louis.

Jean-Louis is one of the most athletic and explosive receivers in the country, and he possesses the type of game-changing speed that can really stretch the field. 

Look for the Florida native to get some major looks in fall camp and don't be surprised if he manages to work his way into the starting lineup at some point in the season. 

72. OG Evan Boehm, Missouri

Missouri has lost both of its starting offensive guards from this past season, Jayson Palmgren and Austin Wuebbels, which means that incoming 4-star prospect Evan Boehm could arrive in Columbia and become an instant starter in 2012. 

The 6'3'', 290-pound Boehm has the perfect makeup to be a standout guard, and if he does end up earning a starting gig in 2012, it will be very interesting to see if he's strong enough and quick enough at this point in his development to handle some of the more powerful and athletic defensive tackles that he'll see in the SEC. 

73. TE Ricky Parks, Auburn

Auburn already has one of the top tight ends in the country with Phillip Lutzenkirchen, but it never hurts to add more talented difference-makers at the position, and that's just what Ricky Parks appears to be. 

The Georgia product is probably the most athletic tight end in the 2012 recruiting class, and he should develop into a reliable receiver for whoever ends up as the next Auburn quarterback. 

The 6'3'', 230-pound Parks looks like the heir apparent to take over for Lutzenkirchen, who will be a senior next season. 

74. S Marcus Maye, Florida

Florida already has one of the top safety tandems in the country with Matt Elam and Josh Evans, and the Gators managed to add to that by reeling in Marcus Maye. 

The Florida native may have to sit behind Elam and Evans next season, but the 6'1'', 195-pound safety has a bright future ahead of him, as Maye is the type of physical and rangy safety that can develop into a reliable leader in the back end of the Gators defense. 

75. RB Barry Sanders, Stanford

It’s never easy to try to follow in your father’s footsteps, especially in the same sport where he was a legend (just ask Marcus Jordan), but Barry Sanders managed to step out of his father’s shadow and make a name for himself during his time at Oklahoma's Heritage Hall High School.

The 5'11'', 190-pound highlight maker developed into one of the most entertaining running back recruits in the country during his high school career. 

Sanders has shown the same type of balance and burst that made his father an icon with the Detroit Lions, and he’s got what it takes to make a big impact in the Pac-12 next season when he joins Stepfan Taylor in the Stanford backfield.

76. WR Chris Black, Alabama

With the four most productive receivers on Alabama's 2011 roster—Marquis Maze, Darius Hanks, running back Trent Richardson and tight end Brad Smelley—all gone, there's going to be a lot of room for Tide receivers to make a name for themselves in 2012, and one of the names to keep an eye on will be Chris Black. 

The Jacksonville product is built in a similar mold to a smaller, quicker receiver like Maze, and he should be able to fill his shoes well in the coming years. 

77. CB Yuri Wright, Colorado

Yuri Wright caused a bit of a media firestorm when he was expelled from New Jersey's Don Bosco Prep for his sexually explicit tweets just a few weeks before National Signing Day.

The incident cost Wright a scholarship offer from Michigan, and hopefully it taught him a valuable lesson, as he now looks to keep his football career going at Colorado.

The 4-star cornerback has the talent to be a big-time player for the Buffaloes, and should be in the mix to fill the hole left by Travis Sandersfeld. All Wright has to do is make sure that his head's on right and that his two main focuses are on school and football. 

78. LB Noor Davis, Stanford

Stanford will have one of the top linebacker duos in the country for 2012 with both Shayne Skov and Chase Thomas returning, and the Cardinal will be adding one of the top overall linebacker prospects of the 2012 class, Noor Davis, to the mix as well, which should help even further solidify the strength at the position. 

The 6'4'', 230-pound Davis has the speed and athleticism to be a true force coming off the edge of Stanford's 3-4 defense, and he's the type of 'backer who could complement Thomas very well on the other side of the line. 

79. DT Sheldon Day, Notre Dame

Notre Dame seems to be set along the defensive line for 2012 with defensive ends Kapron Lewis-Moore, Aaron Lynch and Stephon Tuitt and nose tackle Louis Nix, but adding a versatile lineman like Sheldon Day, who can line up at either position, is an important addition. 

The 6'2'', 285-pound Day is big enough and strong enough to handle playing the nose, and quick enough to move out to end in certain situations, and the 4-star Indiana native should be a valuable addition to the depth chart for the 2012 season. 

80. DE Ifeadi Odenigbo, Northwestern

If you heard ESPNU’s interview with Ifeadi Odenigbo on National Signing Day, then you know that Odenigbo has a bright future ahead of him both on and off the football field, as he’s one of the more well-spoken young men of the 2012 recruiting class. 

Northwestern is seemingly a perfect fit for a player like Odenigbo, and the Ohio product should be able to immediately help boost the Wildcats’ pass rush, which finished dead last in the Big Ten with just 17 sacks in 2011.

The 6’4’’, 210-pound incoming freshman still has to grow into his frame, but he already possesses the type of strength and speed to compete at the college level. He should have no trouble assimilating himself into Northwestern’s defensive huddle in 2012.

81. WR Germone Hopper, Clemson

Clemson already has two of the most explosive and dangerous receivers in the country, Sammy Watkins and De'Andre Hopkins, and the Tigers have now added another big-play threat to their receiver corps with the addition of Germone Hopper, who was one of the top-rated prospects in the state of North Carolina. 

Like Watkins and Hopkins, the 6'0'', 165-pound Hopper possesses field-stretching speed, and while he may not enjoy a freshman season like Watkins did in 2011, he definitely has the chance to step in and make a few cornerbacks look foolish next season.

82. DT Quay Evans, Mississippi State

Losing future first-round pick DT Fletcher Cox a year early to the NFL was a huge hit to Mississippi State's defense, but adding a big, physical defensive tackle like Quay Evans certainly helps soften the blow. 

Josh Boyd may be the big dog in the interior, but the 6'3'', 295-pound Evans will definitely give guys like Kaleb Eulls and Curtis Virges a run for their money, as he looks to be the one who gets to replace Cox and line up next to Boyd.

83. LB Reggie Ragland, Alabama

Nick Saban hasn't seemed to have much trouble reeling in top-notch defensive prospects in recent years, and the great thing about Saban is he usually makes the most of that talent, as Alabama has become an absolute NFL factory since his arrival.

The next great linebacker that Saban will be looking to mold is Reggie Ragland, an in-state product from Bob Jones High School. 

With Courtney Upshaw, Dont'a Hightower and Jerrell Harris all off to the NFL, and C.J. Mosley still rehabbing that gruesome-looking injury he suffered in the BCS Championship Game, there are going to be some holes to fill at linebacker for Alabama. 

With only two of the four spots definitively filled up by Mosley, if he's healthy, and Nico Johnson, Ragland should be able to compete for playing time as a true freshman in 2012, and if he keeps developing, he's got the chance to be Bama's next great 'backer.

84. DE Chris Casher, Florida State

Florida State lost out on highly touted defensive end Dante Fowler Jr. to Florida, but the Seminoles were able to hold onto Chris Casher, one of the most coveted prospects in the state of Alabama. 

Since there's already so much depth at defensive end with Brandon Jenkins and Bjoern Werner both returning, and top-rated recruit Mario Edwards entering the fold, Casher is going to have to work his tail off if he wants to impress coaches and get some reps in 2012.

But once Jenkins and Werner both leave, many expect that Edwards and Casher could develop into one of the top defensive end tag-teams in the country. 

85. S Deon Bush, Miami

Miami has produced plenty of notable safeties over the last decade including Ed Reed, Sean Taylor, Brandon Merriweather and Kenny Phillips, and it looks like Deon Bush might have the chance to be the next great one. 

Since the Hurricanes are returning both starting safeties, Ray-Ray Armstrong and Vaughn Telemaque, from a year ago, Bush won't have the chance to enter the starting lineup as a freshman, but he'll provide valuable depth and should be able to make it onto the field for special defensive packages.

86. WR Durron Neal, Oklahoma

Oklahoma went heavy on receivers with their 2012 recruiting class, and one of the big names that the Sooners were able to reel in was Durron Neal, who played for Missouri's DeSemet High School. 

The 6'1'', 195-pound Neal is one of the fastest and most explosive receivers in the country, and he, Trey Metoyer and Sterling Shepard have the chance to develop into one of college football's most dangerous receiver trios in the coming years. 

Neal may not be able to break Ryan Broyles' receiving records, but he still has the chance to be a special player in Norman, and don't be surprised if he makes a few big highlight-reel plays as a true freshman in 2012. 

87. CB Ishmael Adams, UCLA

UCLA  will have one of the Pac-12's best corner combos in Aaron Hester and Sheldon Price, but the Bruins will also be adding one of the top cornerback prospects in the country, Ishmael Adams, to the mix.

Adams, who played his high school ball down the road at Oaks Christian, has all the traits you look for in a top-flight cornerback, and he'll have two great mentors to show him the ropes next season in Hester and Price. 

88. RB Brionte Dunn, Ohio State

Brionte Dunn may not be a conventional fit for Urban Meyer's spread zone read offense, but Meyer will definitely figure out a way to properly incorporate the big, bruising back's power and strength into his system. 

The 6'2'', 215-pound Dunn has the chance to be a DeShawn Wynn-type of back at Ohio State, and though he'll have some competition from returning backs like Carlos Hyde and Jordan Hall, he should definitely be able to get onto the field and make an impact in 2012.  

89. WR Dominique Wheeler, Texas Tech

Texas Tech already has three of the most underrated receivers in the country—Darrin Moore, Eric Ward and Alex Torres—so it makes sense that the Red Raiders would pick up one of the most underrated receiver recruits of the 2012 class, Dominique Wheeler. 

Wheeler may not have garnered the same type of national attention as other top-rated Texas receivers like Thomas Johnson or Cayleb Jones, but he has the chance to be just as good as those two.

The 6'1'', 175-pound incoming freshman might have to wait his turn, but something tells me that Tommy Tuberville will find a way to incorporate his tremendous playmaking ability into Texas Tech's pass-happy offense in 2012. 

90. S Alex Carter, Stanford

Stanford has lost its two top safeties, Michael Thomas and Delano Howell, who ranked second and fourth on the team in tackles, respectively, in 2011, but the Cardinal have also picked up one of the top defensive back recruits in the country this year with the addition of Alex Carter. 

Carter, who will be making the move to Palo Alto all the way from Ashburn, VA shares many of the same traits that made Thomas and Howell so successful at Stanford. 

The 6'0'', 190-pound incoming freshman is a fast, instinctive ball-hawk who has the chance to step right into Stanford's starting lineup and become an instant factor for the Cardinal defense in 2012. 

91. DE/DT Leonard Williams, USC

The addition of defensive end/tackle tweener Leonard Williams to USC’s 2012 recruiting class on National Signing Day had to make coach Lane Kiffin smile, because after losing Nick Perry, DaJohn Harris and potentially Armond Armstead, Kiffin knew he could use some major help along the defensive line. 

Williams is the type of versatile lineman who can line up both inside and outside, and if he can get a little stronger and add some weight to his frame without losing some of his trademark quickness, the 4-star Florida native has the chance to jump right into USC’s defensive line rotation in 2012.

92. WR Royce Jenkins-Stone, Michigan

Michigan should have one of the strongest linebacker corps in the country with Kenny Demens, Jake Ryan, Desmond Morgan and Brandin Hawthorne, and the Wolverines will also be adding three of the top linebacker prospects of the 2012 recruiting class with Royce Jenkins-Stone, James Ross and Joe Bolden.

The real player to watch in 2012 will be Jenkins-Stone, who has the type of talent to compete for immediate playing time.

The Detroit native has the type of athleticism, strength and instincts to develop into a consistent run-stopper for Michigan's defense.

93. DE Tyriq McCord, Miami

Miami already has one of the best young defensive ends in the ACC in Anthony Chickillo, who enters 2012 fresh off a breakout freshman campaign. But Al Golden knew that he needed to add some depth to the position, especially after losing Marcus Robinson, Olivier Vernon and Adewale Ojomo from last year’s squad. 

Luckily for Golden, he was able to get his hands on one of the top prospects in the state of Florida, defensive end Tyriq McCord, who played for Jefferson High School in Tampa.

At 6'3", 225-pounds, McCord may be built more like a linebacker than an end at this point, but if he can add some bulk to his frame, he has the perfect makeup to be Miami’s next big defensive difference-maker.

94. OT Avery Young, Auburn

Jordan Diamond may be the more polished of Auburn’s two top-rated tackle recruits, but it actually might be Avery Young who possesses more potential and has the brighter future ahead of him. 

Young, who hails from Palm Beach Gardens, FL, is still an extremely raw talent, but he has the type of frame and athletic gifts to develop into an All-SEC caliber lineman down the road.

The 6’6’’, 275-pound incoming freshman probably won’t see the field too much in 2012, but if he works on his technique and his fundamentals, he’s got the chance to really make a name for himself in the years to come.

95. S LaDarrell McNeil, Tennessee

Highly touted safety Janzen Jackson may have thrown his college career away, but Tennessee can still lay claim to one of the best safeties in the country, Prentiss Waggner. 

Next season, Waggner will likely be joined in the back end by emerging freshman safety Brian Randolph, who opened eyes in his first season. But one safety who will add valuable depth to the position is 4-star prospect LaDarrell McNeil, who was one of the top rated recruits in the state of Texas for the 2012 class.

McNeil looks like he could be the heir apparent to Waggner, and he should be able to learn some valuable tips from the junior safety in 2012.

96. DE Javonte Magee, Baylor

With Terrance Loyd, Gary Mason Jr. and Tevin Elliot all returning, defensive end is set to be one of the deepest positions on Baylor’s roster in 2012. The Bears have also added another potential standout at the position with their top recruit of 2012, Javonte Magee. 

Magee, who hails from San Antonio, chose Baylor over schools like Alabama, Auburn, Florida State, Notre Dame and Texas, and if you’ve seen the young pass-rushing phenom’s high school highlights, you know why so many big-time schools were interested.

Even though he’ll have to work his way up the depth chart and climb over some talented returning ends, Magee is the type of athletic edge-rusher who could make a name for himself in passing situations, as he has the type of natural first-step quickness that could really be tough for opposing offensive tackles to handle.

97. DT Carlos Watkins, Clemson

Clemson has produced some terrific defensive linemen in recent years, and incoming defensive tackle Carlos Watkins has the chance to be the next big name for the Tigers’ defensive front.

With last year’s two starting defensive tackles Brandon Thompson and Rennie Moore both moving on, there’s going to be a lot of competition this offseason for Clemson’s two DT spots.

Watkins should be able to come in and battle it out with returning tackles like Corey Crawford and DeShawn Williams to earn a starting spot in 2012.

The 4-star prospect has the the type of size, strength and athleticism to grow into an interior force at Clemson.

98. CB Amos Leggett, Marshall

When you happen to be one of the most decorated and most highly rated recruits in the history of a program, you’re probably going to have a pretty good chance to play right away, and new Marshall cornerback Amos Leggett should definitely have that opportunity.

The Miami native was forced to pick the Herd over more prominent offers from schools like Alabama, Florida State, Miami and Tennessee because of academic issues, but if he can get his work in the classroom straightened out, he should have no problem making a big impact on the field early in his career.

With last year’s starting cornerback Rashad Jackson gone, Leggett should be right in the mix to win the starting position across from returning freshman Monterius Lovett.

99. DE Se’Von Pittman, Ohio State

Noah Spence, Tommy Schutt and Adolphus Washington are the three big blue-chip prospects of Ohio State’s 2012 class, but even though Se’Von Pittman may be rated just a step below his three other defensive line counterparts, that doesn’t mean that Pittman doesn’t have a very bright future ahead of him in Columbus.

Spence and Washington are expected to immediately join the defensive end rotation with John Simon and Nathan Williams, but Pittman should be an instant factor as well, as the Canton, OH native possesses the type of pass-rushing skills that should be a valuable addition to the Buckeyes defense.

100. RB Byron Marshall, Oregon

Oregon may have lost star running back LaMichael James, but the Ducks will have one of the most dangerous backfield duos in the country returning to Eugene in 2012 with De’Anthony Thomas and Kenjon Barner both returning.

That means it’s going to be tough for 4-star running back recruit Byron Marshall to get a ton of carries in his first season.

However, Marshall is the type of explosive threat that Chip Kelly has to be excited about adding to the offense, and the California native should be able to see his fair share of snaps as a true freshman.