2012 NFL Draft: Analyzing the Most Underrated and Versatile Defenders

If there's one thing that can give mid and late-round prospects an edge in the NFL draft, it's being versatile.

Whether it's having played and produced well at multiple positions, having excellent control over a position's varied dynamics or a combination of the two, being a more complete player can only benefit a player's draft stock.

That said, here's a look at some underrated defenders whose versatility will prove more appealing to the franchises interested.

Brandon Boykin: CB, Georgia

An expected early third-rounder, Georgia's Brandon Boykin only stands at 5'9" and weighs a little over 180 pounds, but he's quite the complete player.

In addition to his cornerback duties, where Boykin collected nine picks, defended 27 passes, forced two fumbles (both in 2011) and made 153 tackles in just three seasons, he also served as a return man.

On special teams, Boykin compiled 2,663 kickoff return yards, averaged 24.2 per return and took four back to the house. As a senior, he also served as the Dawgs' punt returner and gained 180 yards on 14 returns, including one touchdown.

The man even played a little offense in 2011. There, Boykin ran the rock seven times for 103 yards and caught five passes for 71 more. Together, he combined for three touchdowns.

As NFL teams can see, he brings more than just lockdown coverage to the table.

Derek Wolfe: DT/DE, Cincinnati

Cincinnati's Derek Wolfe may not be prototypical anywhere along the defensive line, but has proven production as a defensive lineman. That sounds contradictory, but the man simply knows how to play well in the trenches without being a true defensive tackle or end.

Indeed, the Bearcats had him work at both spots during his career. With his 6'5", 290-pound frame, Wolfe became a versatile player. The last three years of his career, Wolfe recorded 17.5 sacks, 159 tackles and forced three fumbles.

Wolfe has the strength, durability and awareness to make plays everywhere around the line of scrimmage. He does, however, lack quickness for a true defensive end and the ability to beat double teams for a true defensive tackle.

Therefore, his best fit at the pro level will be as a 3-4 defensive end, who gets put in many one-on-one situations with a guard or tackle. Provided that there's a solid pass-rusher outside of him, Wolfe can develop into a dominant force quicker than expected.

Matt Daniels: Safety, Duke

At first thought, Duke safety Matt Daniels may not appear to be a versatile defender, but he's more dynamic within his position than anything else.

No, he's not Brandon Boykin-esque by acting as a return specialist or playing some offense. However, Daniels is the type of safety who can play virtually anywhere on the field. For one, he has great size at 6'0", 210 pounds, and is quick as lightning.

From 2009 through 2011, he recorded 322 tackles, defended 29 passes and forced seven fumbles. It's obvious that he can play near the line for run support, help shield off underneath routes in zone and also provide the ability to sit back in Cover 2 or Cover 3.

That being said, Daniels isn't the most impressive man coverage defender. However, with his size, football intelligence and speed combination, locking down tight ends and running backs will suffice.

Plus, with that acceleration and roll down ability, blitzing off the edge or up the middle is another option.

John Rozum on Twitter.