NFL Combine 2012: Players That Can't Afford Poor Performances

The 2012 NFL Scouting Combine is underway and there are a few athletes that must not falter in front of the many scouts attending. 

This is an opportunity to make a significant jump on teams' draft boards, but failing to show up in what is arguably the biggest workout of these athletes' life will have a negative impact in their draft stock. 

Nobody can afford to flop this weekend in Indianapolis, but there is more pressure on few individuals. 

With that said, here are three players that better not fall flat on their face. 

Rueben Randle, WR, LSU 

ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. and Don Banks of Sports Illustrated both have Randle going in the first round. I don't think it will happen based on team needs and other players being more worthy, but it's clear Randle is gaining buzz. 

All of that can be wiped away by a poor showing at the combine, however. Randle wasn't used heavily in college, reeling in only 53 receptions for 917 yards and eight touchdowns this past season. 

He has the tools to excel in the NFL, but his performance at the combine will be extremely crucial. The hype building around him could disappear quickly if he fails to deliver this weekend. 

Listed at 6'4", 208 pounds, Randle has to catch everything thrown his way, as well as dominate the drills. If he doesn't do well, his stock will plummet. 

Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama 

Since being arrested for marijuana possession shortly after the BCS National Championship Game, Kirkpatrick's draft stock took a big hit.

The charges were dropped, but the negative image surrounding the former Crimson Tide standout remains. 

Interviews will be vital for Kirkpatrick, as it is a chance for him to let teams know what really went down. Plus, he can show teams that he is worthy of being a high draft pick. 

Listed at 6'3", 192 pounds, Kirkpatrick is extremely skilled in the secondary, but any small mishap at the combine will crush his status on the draft boards because of his recent arrest. There is no room for error. 

Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina 

Banks and Kiper don't even have Jeffery being selected in the first round, which to me is a joke. Bleacher Report's NFL draft lead writer Matt Miller has Jeffery as his top wide receiver. 

There are conflicting opinions on Jeffery throughout the land of draft experts, so the former Gamecock must use the combine to show that he is the real deal. 

This past season wasn't as strong as it could have been for Jeffery, which is why their is some doubts surrounding him.

Listed at 6'4", 229 pounds, Jeffery has the size, strength and hands to dominate at the next level. He can catch virtually anything thrown his way, but if he falters at the combine then he can kiss any chance of being a high draft pick goodbye.