2012 NFL Draft: 9 Bold Predictions for Prospect Pro Days

They all had a chance to shine. And for some of them, the 2012 NFL Scouting Combine last weekend was nothing more than an indictment on their chances to find riches in the NFL's first round.

But have no fear, there is always the pro day to help clear up misconceptions that may have been raised with poor play, lack of speed or an inability to bench press more than 225 pounds.

The pro day has become the salvation of the NFL draft in some respects, allowing great talent to show that they can do in the confines of their home stadiums. Call it the comfort zone for all prospects and possibly the Holy Grail of talent evaluation that again will have scouts and coaches salivating over the chance to take a top prospect.

Don't worry, there is vindication in the pro day. The pro day is a media type's best friend, allowing them to seek redemption for prognostications and the heat they take for picking one player over another.

Here are some predictions we may see happen when these "talents" take to the field and persuade scouts to make them their top choice in the upcoming draft.

Alshon Jeffery Cannot Run a Slow 40-Yard Dash in Columbia

There was a reason why Alshon Jeffery decided not to run or catch passes in Indianapolis.

Jeffery may have come into the combine at just under 6'4" but he decided that he would not run or show scouts how he caught balls. Those are both major red flags.

While the height for Jeffery is good, his 40 time may hinder him, leading him to fall into the second round.

Georgia's Ben Jones Puts on a Show for Blocking Technique

He was manhandled at the Senior Bowl. He is currently listed as the second-rated guard on most draft boards.

Jones needs to prove he can stay solid at the point of attack, especially with quick defensive tackles. Look for him to rediscover his blocking technique and put on a show for the scouts in Athens.

Chris Rainey Shows World-Class Speed in Florida Pro Day

I think Rainey can be another Warrick Dunn.

If this is true, then scouts will love his speed and his hands. And, Rainey shows something for the return game as well.

The Swamp is a fast track, a place where Rainey can show off all his skills after a decent senior season at Florida.

If he impresses, he moves up the draft board, maybe into the third round.

LaMichael James Moves into the Bottom of the First Round with Workout at Oregon

He was too successful in college to fail on the next level.

And for a team like New England or Green Bay who needs a runner with his type of skills, a solid pro day could vault him into the end of the first round.

I see him as a Kevin Faulk-type runner with better speed. The Patriots could sure use that, especially if BenJarvus Green-Ellis leaves via free agency.

Vontaze Burfict Gives the Media and Scouts One Hell of a Workout

He was slow at the combine. He looked unimpressive and he looked like he did not care to be there.

Burfict has to prove the scouts wrong or it does not happen for him.

Look for him to find redemption in March.

If he runs in the 4.65 range in the 40 and can show he has mental toughness, then he goes back into the pool of early entrants who will hear their names called early.

John Brantley Finally Throws the Ball with Accuracy

We have been waiting to see what John Brantley can do with a football. Now, we get to see it.

When you think of it, there is no pressure here in the Swamp. Just rock and fire.

He was supposed to be the next big thing at Florida, a real passer to make people see the pro-style offense can work in Gainesville.

It never materialized. This is his chance to prove he is for real.

Zebrie Sanders Redefines Himself as a Top Tackle Prospect

Sanders had an awful Senior Bowl week. He knows this may be the deciding factor between being a second-round pick or much later in the process.

Can he recapture that form?

Pro scouts are hoping they get the Sanders from his junior year and most of the 2011 college season. If so, it could mean he rises into the first round of this year's draft.

Jeff Fuller Catches Everything Thrown to Him at Texas A&M Pro Day

He is glad he may have someone like Ryan Tannehill throwing to him.

Fuller was once a borderline first-round pick. Things fell apart in the Senior Bowl. He could not get separation from receivers.

This a chance for him to redeem himself.

Ryan Tannehill Moves into the Top 15 with Pro Day Performance

Finally, we get to see what Tannehill can do. He moved up draft charts without showing off his arm or mobility,

Odd.

If Tannehill is as accurate as scouts hope he is, then he should be able to move solidly into the first round. If not, the concerns of his foot become and issue and with an issue like that, his stock tumbles.