2012 NFL Draft Projections: Biggest Reaches in First Round

Reaching for prospects is part of every draft and 2012 will be no different.

Most teams reach when they're in desperate need of positional help and that is often used as the justification for selecting a player ten spots too early.

There are a few players in this year's class already being talked about as reaches and a few more will certainly materialize when all is said and done.

Ryan Tannehill, QB, Texas A&M

Tannehill's value will be determined by what goes down in free agency. If Peyton Manning becomes available, it will certainly send shockwaves through the quarterback-needy teams and and could even make a few teams more desperate for a rookie signal-caller.

The Texas A&M star is currently injured and that has only added to his intrigue. The quarterback turned wide receiver turned quarterback has great athleticism and his upside is incredible.

That said, he's a risk but because of the market he could go in the top 10.

Michael Brockers, DT, LSU

The redshirt sophomore has tremendous upside but he surprised everyone by entering the draft. Brockers has a great combination of size, speed and athleticism and everyone knows it.

The Tiger isn't ready to contribute in the NFL right now though, and any team that takes him will do so knowing that as well.

Even with the great risk involved however, Brockers could also be off the board within the top 10 selections.

Lamar Miller, RB, Miami

The Hurricanes' running back is going to rise up the draft board after the scouting combine. He has rumored 4.3 speed and we know that will drive teams crazy on draft day.

He's a complete running back with size, speed and upside.

Teams could jump on Miller in the top 15 with his impressive measurables.

Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Speed, speed and more speed. Wright was super-productive at Baylor and is a tremendous athlete. He runs a 9-route as good as anyone in this class and has a ton of upside.

He's still putting things together though and has a lot of developing still to do.

If he goes in the top 15, it will be far too early.