2012 NFL Draft Projections: Overhyped Prospects Who Will Disappoint

There are always those NFL prospects who dazzle with their athleticism, their strength or their potential at the next level.

Sometimes, however, these prospects are vastly overrated. The truth is, you need a combination of skills and intangibles to succeed in the pro ranks, not just a couple of impressive skills.

Here's a look at overhyped prospects in the 2012 NFL draft who I see disappointing at the next level.

3. Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

I project Justin Blackmon to be a very good possession receiver in the NFL, but not a great overall receiver.

Hidden behind all of Blackmon's numbers while at Oklahoma State is the fact that he's not the strongest or fastest receiver in the class. For example, South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery, who some are tabbing as a late first-round prospect, has better strength and speed than Blackmon, and he has the ability to create better separation from cornerbacks at the next level.

I think Blackmon will be a solid receiver in the NFL, but if you're looking for the next A.J. Green or Julio Jones, you're going to be disappointed—especially when he doesn't have a good quarterback throwing him the ball.

2. Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

I'll first start off by saying that I love Luke Kuechly's instincts, tackling ability, range and, most importantly, his desire.

On the other hand, you do need a certain level of physical abilities at your respective position to succeed in the NFL.

To me, Kuechly doesn't have the size or strength to be a middle linebacker in the National Football League. If you watch tape, you can even see him being pushed around in college when he works into the interior. Unless he bulks up considerably, it's hard for me to see him being a run-stuffer in the pros.

1. Quinton Coples, DE/DT, North Carolina

Quinton Coples is clearly the fastest prospect when you're looking at the top defensive tackles and 3-4 defensive ends in the 2012 draft class. He's also an explosive, strong player who has the ability to bull-rush linemen at the next level.

But there's one thing he doesn't have that seriously concerns me: the desire to play in the NFL.

Coples' physical abilities had many tabbing him as the No. 2 prospect in the 2012 draft class headed into this season. But he hasn't lived up to the considerable hype.

Sure, Coples has had good numbers this past season, but they haven't been as good as last season and, frankly, he hasn't played as well either.

If a player doesn't bring it on every down in college, how can you expect him to bring it in the NFL?

We've seen what happens to players like this at the next level: They become busts.