NFL Draft 2012: Prospects Who Will Rise at All-Important Combine

As we head into the NFL combine, it's getting down to the nitty-gritty, where prospects show scouts their dazzling blend of speed and strength.

Throughout the years, we've seen prospects soar up draft boards based on their work at the combine, displaying the athleticism and power fit for the pros.

Part of Cam Newton's charm last season was his athleticism at the quarterback position.

Here's a look at three prospects who NFL scouts won't be able to keep their eyes off at the all-important combine.

Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

Janoris Jenkins has his fair share of character concerns, but his speed and quickness will make it difficult for a lot of NFL receivers to separate.

Jenkins has been clocked running the 40-yard dash at 4.46 seconds, near the top of the 2012 cornerback class. He also has the size at the position to impress scouts.

In the end, Jenkins' character concerns may not matter after scouts see his dazzling speed, combined with his play at the college level.

Quinton Coples, DE/DT, North Carolina

I wouldn't select Quinton Coples in the first round, based on his lacking work ethic, but I have no doubt an NFL team will grab him in the first round after the combine.

Coples is not only one of the fastest 3-4 defensive end prospects in the class (with a 40 time of 4.76), but he has tremendous strength—some peg him as a defensive tackle at the next level.

There is no question that Coples has the speed and strength to be a game-changer in the NFL. If his desire ever comes around, he'll be a threat in the pros.

That's a big "if" in my mind, though.

Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Kendall Wright, Robert Griffin III's most trusted target at Baylor, has already soared up draft board since the start of last season.

When scouts get a look at this kid's speed, he could rise even higher.

Wright doesn't have the greatest size at the position (5'10", 190 pounds), but he's been clocked running the 40-yard dash at 4.42 seconds, which is lightning-fast, even by NFL standards. He's been described as having DeSean Jackson-like athleticism.

I truly believe Wright will be a difference-maker at the collegiate level, and he has no character concerns to speak of.

Whoever drafts this guy is going to be mighty happy down the line.