2012 NFL Draft: Best and Worst Case Scenarios for Top 50 Prospects

The draft process continues to head towards April like an out-of-control train. After the combine, we start to see more of the prospects solidify their draft stock. This is also the time of year where teams start to schedule individual workouts and set their board.

All this means that we are closer to finding out where each prospect will land. I'm continuing to work through my evaluations and develop my last thoughts on each prospect.

This upcoming list shows my top 50 prospects and where they might land come April.

No. 50 to No. 40

50. Marvin Jones, Wide Receiver, Cal

Best: No. 35 Minnesota Vikings Worst: No. 63 New England Patriots

49. Harrison Smith, Safety, Notre Dame

Best: No. 28 Green Bay Packers Worst: No. 52 Tennessee Titans

48. Dwayne Allen, Tight End, Clemson

Best: No. 50 Chicago Bears Worst: Third Round

47. Jamell Fleming, Cornerback, Oklahoma

Best: No. 30 San Francisco 49ers Worst: No. 60 Green Bay Packers

46. Chandler Jones, Linebacker/Defensive End, Syracuse

Best: No. 28 Green Bay Packers Worst: No. 63 New England Patriots

45. Brandon Thompson, Defensive Tackle, Clemson

Best: No. 33 St. Louis Rams Worst: No. 58 Houston Texans

44. Andre Branch, Defensive End/Linebacker, Clemson

Best: No. 34 Indianapolis Colts Worst: No. 60 Green Bay Packers

43. Vinny Curry, Defensive End, Marshall

Best: No. 37 Cleveland Browns Worst: Third Round

42. Rueben Randle, Wide Receiver, LSU

Best: No. 35 Minnesota Vikings Worst: No. 62 San Francisco 49ers

41. Kevin Zeitler, Guard, Wisconsin

Best: No. 50 Chicago Bears Worst: No. 53 Cincinnati Bengals

40. Mohamed Sanu, Wide Receiver, Rutgers

Best: No. 33 St. Louis Rams Worst: No. 38 Jacksonville Jaguars

No. 39 to No. 26

39. Coby Fleener, Tight End, Stanford

Best: No. 32 New York Giants  Worst: No. 64 New York Giants

38. David Wilson, Running Back, Virginia Tech

Best: No. 36 Tampa Bay Buccaneers Worst: No. 57 Denver Broncos

37. Dont'a Hightower, Linebacker, Alabama

Best: No. 24 Pittsburgh Steelers Worst: No. 61 Baltimore Ravens

36. Nick Perry, Defensive End/Linebacker, USC

Best: No. 18 San Diego Chargers Worst: No. 41 Buffalo Bills

35. Kelechi Osemele, Offensive Line, Iowa State

Best: No. 24 Pittsburgh Steelers Worst: No. 53 Cincinnati Bengals

34. Peter Konz, Center, Wisconsin

Best: No. 28 Green Bay Packers Worst: No. 32 New York Giants

33. Malik Jackson, Defensive End, Tennessee

Best: No. 37 Cleveland Browns Worst: No. 52 Tennessee Titans

32. Doug Martin, Running Back, Boise State

Best: No. 25 Denver Broncos Worst: No. 43 Seattle Seahawks

31. Lamar Miler, Running Back, Miami

Best: No. 21 Cincinnati Bengals Worst: No. 53 Cincinnati Bengals

30. Zach Brown, Linebacker, North Carolina

Best: No. 32 New York Giants Worst: No. 37 Cleveland Browns

29. Orson Charles, Tight End, Georgia

Best: No. 32 New York Giants Worst: No. 50 Chicago Bears

28. Fletcher Cox, Defensive Line, Mississippi State

Best: No. 25 Denver Broncos Worst: No. 33 St. Louis Rams

27. Janoris Jenkins, Cornerback, North Alabama

Best: No. 14 Dallas Cowboys Worst: No. 33 St. Louis Rams

26. Michael Brockers, Defensive Line, LSU

Best: No. 9 Carolina Panthers Worst: No. 27 New England Patriots

No. 25 Dontari Poe, Defensive Line, Memphis

Best-Case Scenario: No. 9 Carolina Panthers

Memphis' Dontari Poe might be the fastest-rising prospect at this point in the draft process. His impressive performance at the combine showed teams the type of athleticism he possesses. Poe's explosiveness means he can fit multiple schemes and positions.

The Carolina Panthers would use him at both the three-technique and nose tackle spot in their 4-3 scheme. He would be asked to both penetrate the pocket and occupy blockers. He's the type of interior force needed to control the line of scrimmage.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 24 Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers need to find a long-term replacement for the aging Casey Hampton. Poe's size and anchor ability makes him a great fit at the nose tackle position. Pittsburgh's linebackers get most of the attention, but it's the play of Hampton that makes this defense so successful.

Poe won't get past the Steelers and is very likely to go much earlier. The only way he drops a little is if teams worry he might struggle to adjust to the NFL competition. Memphis didn't exactly face top-level teams during Poe's career.

No. 24 Whitney Mercilus, Defensive End/Linebacker, Illinois

Best-Case Scenario: No. 12 Seattle Seahawks

Illinois' Whitney Mercilus possesses the pass-rushing skills coveted by almost every team in the NFL. He uses a quick burst off the line and good hand placement to work into the backfield. His strong performance at the combine answered any questions about his athleticism.

The Seattle Seahawks need another pass-rusher to help Chris Clemons. As a team, they only recorded 33 sacks with Clemons, the only one to top five total sacks. Mercilus absolutely possesses the ability to contend for double-digit sacks each season.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 31 New England Patriots

Players with Mercilus' pass-rushing ability rarely make it out of the first round. He backed up his physical abilities with excellent production on the field. The New England Patriots must come out of this draft with at least one player capable of generating pressure on the quarterback.

No. 23 Kendall Reyes, Defensive Line, Connecticut

Best-Case Scenario: No. 24 Pittsburgh Steelers

Connecticut's Kendall Reyes is a versatile player capable of filling multiple roles in many defensive sets. His ability to both penetrate the pocket and hold at the point of attack is what allows him to fit anywhere. At Connecticut, Reyes was asked to do a lot of different things, which limited his ability to perfect one craft.

In the NFL, he will receive better coaching and a more defined role.

The Pittsburgh Steelers need to get younger along the defensive front. Reyes would provide them with an athletic defensive end. He's talented enough to immediately be inserted into the rotation, while continuing to develop.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 48 (2nd Round) New England Patriots

The New England Patriots are likely going to start to transition back to a 3-4 alignment. Transitions like this aren't easy to make because of the different personnel needed to run each attack. Reyes' versatility would allow the Patriots to ease back into that system. He could line up at the three-technique or nose tackle in the 4-3 and bump outside to the five-technique in the 3-4.

Keep an eye on the Green Bay Packers at No. 28, who also need help along the defensive front. Reyes would be an immediate upgrade over Jarius Wynn.

No. 22 Mike Adams, Offensive Tackle, Ohio State

Best-Case Scenario: No. 13 Arizona Cardinals

Ohio State's Mike Adams did a good job this season revitalizing his draft stock after serving a five-game suspension. Throughout the year, he showed quick feet and a balanced shuffle which showed evaluators he's capable playing left tackle in the NFL.

The Arizona Cardinals must find someone capable of protecting the quarterback. They allowed 54 sacks last season, resulting in injuries to Kevin Kolb. Left tackle Levi Brown struggled most of the season and is facing the possibility of becoming a cap casualty.

Even if Brown returns, he would be better suited at right tackle. Either way, Adams would be the Cardinals' starting left tackle if selected in this spot.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 29 Baltimore Ravens

The Baltimore Ravens are also in the market for a long-term answer at left tackle. Their offseason decision to sign Bryant McKinnie showed their lack of confidence in Michael Oher. McKinnie is only a stopgap solution, which would make selecting Adams a wise decision.

No. 21 Stephen Hill, Wide Receiver, Georgia Tech

Best-Case Scenario: No. 19 Chicago Bears

Georgia Tech's Stephen Hill didn't produce exceptional numbers during his college career. However, this was because of the option attack ran at Georgia Tech. Hill did take advantage of every opportunity, pulling down some tough catches in critical situations. His performance at the combine showed the untapped talent and upside he possesses.

The Chicago Bears must come out of the offseason with a legitimate No. 1 wide receiver option. They could target someone like Vincent Jackson in free agency, or pull the trigger on Hill with their first-round pick. Hill isn't a finished product, but his potential gives him a ton of value.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 26 Houston Texans

The Houston Texans need someone capable of drawing double teams away from Andre Johnson. They also need someone who can fill in if Johnson is forced out of the lineup with an injury. Hill's size, quickness and leaping ability will force teams to keep a close eye on him.

This addition would not only help the passing game; it will also open things up for Arian Foster and the rushing attack. Hill's quick rise up draft boards could mean that he's off the board before Houston gets a chance to pick.

No. 20 Kendall Wright, Wide Receiver, Baylor

Best-Case Scenario: No. 17 Cincinnati Bengals

Baylor's Kendall Wright excels at stretching the field and attacking the deep part of the defense. His college career was filled with explosive plays deep down the field. He's versatile enough to work either out of the slot or on the outside.

Wright's immediate role at the next level will be to provide the offense with a strong deep threat.

The Cincinnati Bengals have a great base of young offensive weapons. However, finding someone to complement A.J. Green should be one of their offseason priorities. As the season progressed, Green faced increasing double teams.

Adding Wright will force the defense to plan for another playmaker. Andy Dalton needs all the weapons possible in order for this team to unseat the Pittsburgh Steelers and Baltimore Ravens.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 31 New England Patriots

The Chad Ochocinco experiment didn't provide the New England Patriots with legitimate deep threat. His inability to make a difference forced the Patriots to pick up most of their yardage with underneath routes. They were able to get by thanks to the emergence of Rob Gronkowski, but next season will bring increasing attention on Gronkowski.

Adding Wright to the mix would help draw some attention away from Gronkowski, Aaron Hernandez and Wes Welker. He also gives Brady a legitimate deep threat, the first since Randy Moss was traded.

No. 19 Devon Still, Defensive Tackle, Penn State

Best-Case Scenario: No. 9 Carolina Panthers

Penn State's Devon Still hasn't seen his draft stock move much since the end of the season. He's still in contention for a spot in the top 10, even though that seems like a long shot. However, his ability to penetrate the pocket makes him a valuable prospect. This past season, he showed that he's one of the most disruptive defenders available for this draft.

The Carolina Panthers will be looking to find someone capable of getting into the backfield. Still's internal penetration makes it tough for opposing offenses to find a rhythm. Charles Johnson's ability to generate pressure off the edge will force the quarterback up into the awaiting arms of Still.

Look for the Denver Broncos at No. 25 to be another potential landing spot for Still. This might be the best spot for him, as it would represent good value.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 33 (2nd Round) St. Louis Rams

The St. Louis Rams head into the offseason looking to find a dynamic wide receiver and help on defense. Still's skill set will remind Jeff Fisher a lot of his former player Albert Haynesworth. Don't underestimate the difference interior pressure can have on the effectiveness of a defense.

No. 18 Michael Floyd, Wide Receiver, Notre Dame

Best-Case Scenario: No. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars

Notre Dame's Michael Floyd received attention from NFL draft evaluators for the past few season. He possesses a rare combination of size, quickness and leaping ability. These skills give him the potential to develop into a true No. 1 target. The only issue holding him back is some questionable off-the-field decisions.

The Jacksonville Jaguars must find a top-notch target to help the development of Blaine Gabbert. A big target like Floyd is just the type of help Gabbert needs. His ability to make plays on poorly-thrown balls will increase Gabbert's completion percentage.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 19 Chicago Bears

The Chicago Bears would love to add Michael Floyd to their offensive roster. His addition would provide Jay Cutler with the best pass-catcher of his career since he left Denver. Floyd's playmaking ability will make things easier for players like Earl Bennett and Devin Hester.

Adding Floyd might be the missing piece needed to finally make this Bears offense a powerful force.

No. 17 Alshon Jeffery, Wide Receiver, South Carolina

Best-Case Scenario: No. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars

South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery struggled through his final college season, but still possesses a ton of potential. His size makes it tough for defenders to get position and keep him away from the ball. He knows how to use his body to block out defenders and gain position.

Jeffery has yet to run an official 40, and the result of that will really impact where he lands.

The Jacksonville Jaguars could use a talented pass-catcher like Jeffery to team up with Blaine Gabbert. Last season, Gabbert was thrown into the mix with very limited playmakers. He received a ton of criticism for his struggles, most of which were unwarranted.

Adding Jeffery to the mix will help Gabbert show he's capable of being an NFL quarterback.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 22 Cleveland Browns

Colt McCoy is in the same situation as Blaine Gabbert. He has received a ton of criticism but never really got a chance to play with top-level talent. McCoy's inability to lock down the starting job set the Cleveland Browns franchise into discussion with the St. Louis Rams. Those discussions surround the possibility of moving up to land Baylor's Robert Griffin III.

The progress of those trade discussions have a direct impact on this pick and the possible landing spot of Jeffery. If the Browns move this pick to the Rams, that would make Jeffery still a likely target with the No. 22 pick.

No. 16 Stephon Gilmore, Cornerback, South Carolina

Best-Case Scenario: No. 17 Cincinnati Bengals

South Carolina's Stephon Gilmore is a well-rounded prospect capable of fitting multiple schemes. This versatility will make him a very attractive prospect come April. He plays a physical style of football and isn't afraid to support the run. His aggressiveness is combined with an excellent burst, which allows him to break on the football.

The Cincinnati Bengals enter this offseason looking to find a long-term replacement for Johnathan Joseph, who left via free agency last season. Vets like Adam Jones and Nate Clements did a nice job temporary filling the role, but neither represent great long-term value.

Adding Gilmore opposite Leon Hall gives the Bengals an excellent young cornerback duo.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 30 San Francisco 49ers

The San Francisco 49ers might have a tough time re-signing Carlos Rogers this offseason. Even if they are able to bring him back, San Francisco could use an upgrade on the other side with Tarell Brown.

Gilmore's ball skills would help him really make an impact in the 49ers' aggressive attack. Their ability to generate pressure forces poor throws and brings interception opportunities.

No. 15 Cordy Glenn, Offensive Line, Georgia

Best-Case Scenario: No. 16 New York Jets

Georgia's Cordy Glenn is a very intriguing prospect because of this ability to play multiple positions. During his college career, he lined up at guard, right tackle and left tackle. Glenn excelled in each of those roles while showing NFL-level talent. His best fit might be at right tackle, but he's more than capable of holding up on the left side.

The New York Jets right tackle spot really gave them problems last season. Wayne Hunter just wasn't able to find any consistency. Glenn would be an immediate upgrade over Hunter, while providing a backup solution at the left tackle spot. He's such a safe pick because if he doesn't work out at tackle, he can rotate inside to guard.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 24 Pittsburgh Steelers

The Pittsburgh Steelers know the importance of having depth along the offensive line. These past two seasons, they faced a ton of injuries that would have been tough to overcome without depth. Glenn's versatility gives him the ability to fill in anywhere.

No. 14 Riley Reiff, Offensive Tackle, Iowa

Best-Case Scenario: No. 6 Washington Redskins

Iowa's Riley Reiff is locked into a battle with several offensive tackle prospects for draft positioning. Some see Reiff as the top left tackle available in this draft class. He boasts good balance, strength and quickness, which makes him a good all-around player.

Reiff's experience and skill set will allow him to immediately contend for a starting job.

The Washington Redskins drafted Trent Williams a few years ago to be their franchise left tackle. However, his career has been filled with inconsistent play, injuries and now a substance abuse suspension.

I've always felt that Williams fits better at the right tackle slot. Adding Reiff allows the Redskins to make that shift.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 13 Arizona Cardinals

The Arizona Cardinals' offensive line situation is one of the worst in the entire NFL. The don't have a player capable of consistently winning at the left tackle slot. Levi Brown's inconsistency makes him a likely candidate to be released this offseason. Even if Brown returns, he needs to be moved over to right tackle.

No. 13 Dre Kirkpatrick, Cornerback, Alabama

Best-Case Scenario: No. 9 Carolina Panthers

Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick is a long and athletic defensive back capable of playing in sets. His strength is his ability to play close to the line of scrimmage and disrupt the timing of the route. He's an aggressive player who doesn't shy away from contact and loves to support the run. Kirkpatrick can quickly make an impact on any defense.

The Carolina Panthers have a direction on offense thanks to Cam Newton. They now need to focus most of their resources on upgrading the defense. Carolina's wide range of needs means they can go best player available.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 14 Dallas Cowboys

The Dallas Cowboys secondary played a major role in their late season collapse. Terence Newman and Mike Jenkins both face the realistic possibility of becoming cap casualties this offseason. Neither would be a major loss, as they play very inconsistent football all season.

Kirkpatrick's ability to play up on the line would make him a great fit in Rob Ryan's defensive system.

No. 12 Justin Blackmon, Wide Receiver, Oklahoma State

Best-Case Scenario: No. 4 Cleveland Browns

Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon showed through out his college career that he knows how to make plays with the football. He plays a very physical brand of football and loves to use his body to gain position. Blackmon becomes even more dangerous with the football in his hands, as he rarely comes down on first contact. His work ethic makes him an ideal candidate to team up with a young quarterback.

The No. 4 pick in this draft could be make by either the Cleveland Browns or St. Louis Rams. This all depends on the outcome of the Robert Griffin III trade discussions. Either way, Blackmon makes sense for both teams.

Both franchises lack an playmaker on the outside capable of helping their young quarterback.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars

Blaine Gabbert's success as an NFL quarterback will depend on coach, work ethic and his surrounding weapons. Even the very best quarterbacks struggle to find success without top-level playmakers.

Blackmon's ability to make plays all over the field will really help the development of Gabbert. He's someone that Gabbert can rely on being in the right place at the right time.

No. 11 Melvin Ingram, Defensive End/Linebacker, South Carolina

Best-Case Scenario: No. 7 Jacksonville Jaguars

The ability of South Carolina's Melvin Ingram to get after the quarterback will make him a very sought-after prospect. He's capable of generating pressure from all over the field and out of several positions. During his college career, Ingram lined up at defensive end, defensive tackle and linebacker. His value at the next level will come from is ability to play behind the line of scrimmage.

One of the biggest offseason needs for the Jacksonville Jaguars is to upgrade their pass rush. Their search for a top-level pass-rusher featured the failed additions of Derrick Harvey and Aaron Kampman. Ingram's combination of a strong motor and athleticism increases his chances of success.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 12 Seattle Seahawks

The Seattle Seahawks need to find someone to pair with Chris Clemons. He's been their only true pass-rushing threat the past two seasons. Adding Ingram would bring another threat, while also pulling attention away from Clemons.

His versatility also will give the defense the option to rotate him along the defensive front.

No. 10 David DeCastro, Guard, Stanford

Best-Case Scenario: No. 11 Kansas City Chiefs

In the past few years, guards have started to work their way up the draft. Players like Mike Pouncey and Mike Iupati proved it possible to break into the top part of the draft. Stanford's David DeCastro boasts the skills that could make him an elite player for the next decade. He's balanced, strong and athletic enough to dominate the line of scrimmage.

The interior of the Kansas City Chiefs offensive line needs an infusion of talent, especially at guard. Upgrading this part of the line is important if the Chiefs want to continue featuring a strong rushing attack. DeCastro is the type of player who can generate a push off the line and open running lanes.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 17 Cincinnati Bengals

The Cincinnati Bengals have put a lot of good pieces in place on the offensive side of the ball. However, they have a need along the interior of the offensive line. Ensuring solid offensive line play will be key in the continued development of this young and talented team.

No. 9 Luke Kuechly, Linebacker, Boston College

Best-Case Scenario: No. 9 Carolina Panthers

The combine performance by Boston College's Luke Kuechly really turned some heads and solidified his draft stock. His ability to back up his on the field play with good workout numbers answered any questions about his athleticism. Kuechly is a tackling machine who's always in position to make a play. He also brings a good work ethic and strong leadership abilities to the table.

Recent injury issues for Thomas Davis have put his future in question, and Dan Connor looks likely to test the free-agent market. The loss of these two players will leave the Carolina Panthers very thin at the linebacker position.

Adding Kuechly in the middle will team him with Jon Beason to form one the better duos in the entire NFL.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 15 Philadelphia Eagles

The Philadelphia Eagles' biggest offseason need is at the linebacker position. They could use an upgrade at all three positions. Their biggest problems came with consistency and tackling—both things Kuechly will immediately improve.

His addition will make those around him better and provide a reliable player in the middle of the Eagles defense.

No. 8 Courtney Upshaw, Linebacker, Alabama

Best-Case Scenario: No. 8 Miami Dolphins

Alabama's Courtney Upshaw is a do-it-all player capable of filling multiple roles along the defense. His ability to rush the passer makes him a fit at defensive end or rush linebacker. He also does a good job setting the edge against the run, which increases his value.

Upshaw will provide his new team with solid all-around play.

The Miami Dolphins will employ a mix of 4-3 and 3-4 defensive principles. This means they need to find versatile players capable of fitting multiple roles. It's also important that they add someone capable of replacing the pass-rushing abilities of the retiring Jason Taylor.

Upshaw's wide array of skills makes him the perfect candidate to fit their need.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 16 New York Jets

The New York Jets are always looking to add top-notch defensive talent. The play of their linebackers slipped a little last season, which could make that an offseason focus. Upshaw would fit at outside linebacker to provide a pass-rushing threat, as well as strong play against the run.

No. 7 Matt Kalil, Offensive Tackle, USC

Best-Case Scenario: No. 2 St. Louis Rams

USC's Matt Kalil is seen by most as the top-rated offensive lineman in the 2012 NFL draft class. His combination of good athleticism, size and strength will allow him to make an immediate impact. He's the type of player capable of holding down the left tackle spot for the next decade.

If the St. Louis Rams hold onto the No. 2 pick, they almost have to pick Kalil in order to ensure they get good value. This draft doesn't feature many prospects worthy of that No. 2 overall spot. Adding Kalil will allow the Rams to finally move on from the injury-prone Jason Smith.

St. Louis needs to protect their franchise quarterback and keep him healthy.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 3 Minnesota Vikings

Its almost a guarantee that the Rams will trade the No. 2 overall pick to someone looking to add Robert Griffin III. This means that Kalil could become available to a team like the Minnesota Vikings who desperately need to upgrade the left tackle spot.

At this point, it seems very likely that the Vikings will have an opportunity to add Kalil.

No. 6 Jonathan Martin, Offensive Tackle, Stanford

Best-Case Scenario: No. 3 Minnesota Vikings

Stanford's Jonathan Martin doesn't show up on the top of many evaluators tackle rankings. However, he sits atop my board because of his ability to protect the passer. His ability to shuffle his feet and change direction makes it difficult for defenders to get after the quarterback.

Martin also does an above-average job opening running lanes. He isn't a mauler, but knows how to turn the defender from the play.

The Minnesota Vikings offensive line didn't provide Christian Ponder and company the time needed to find open targets. Left tackle Charlie Johnson is better suited for a backup role, not protecting the blindside of a team's franchise quarterback.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 13 Arizona Cardinals

As I mentioned, some have Martin rated a lot lower—an evaluation that could be shared by NFL teams. This could potentially push him further down the draft and into the arms of the Arizona Cardinals.

Some may not be as high on Martin, but there's no doubting his ability to protect the quarterback. The Cardinals need someone they can trust in that area.

No. 5 Trent Richardson, Running Back, Alabama

Best-Case Scenario: No. 4 Cleveland Browns

Alabama's Trent Richardson is a very talented prospect capable of dominating at the next level. He possesses the rare ability to pick up both short yardage and hit the home run. His skills as a pass-blocker and receiver means he can remain on the field on every down.

The Cleveland Browns continue to negotiate with Peyton Hillis, but things don't appear to be going very smooth. If they feel that Hillis isn't worth the headache, the Browns could set their sights on adding Richardson.

Hillis had that one good season but hasn't shown the consistency needed to be considered an elite running back. At this point, Richardson boasts better skills and much more upside.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 16 New York Jets

Even with the departure of much of the offensive staff, the New York Jets will continue to feature a run-heavy attack. Shonn Greene had a decent season but hasn't established himself as an elite running back.

In order for the Jets to "ground and pound," they need to add someone like Richardson to the mix.

No. 4 Quinton Coples, Defensive End, North Carolina

Best-Case Scenario: No. 4 Cleveland Browns

North Carolina's Quinton Coples is one of the most dynamic defensive prospects available in this draft class. He possesses the size and quickness needed to contend for double-digit sacks every season. Coples uses a wide array of pass-rush moves, which makes it difficult for offenses to defend him.

The only question facing Coples is his motor.

The Cleveland Browns might be one dominant pass-rusher away from having an elite defense. They already feature a strong pass defense and several good pieces along the line. Teaming Coples with Phil Taylor, Jabaal Sheard and Ahtyba Rubin would give the Browns one of the better fronts in the NFL.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 10 Buffalo Bills

The Buffalo Bills are moving to a 4-3 defensive alignment. This means they will need to find some pieces to fit that puzzle. Their biggest hole is at the defensive end position, where they need someone capable of creating pressure off the edge.

Coples would be a perfect fit along side Marcell Dareus and Kyle Williams. His addition speeds up the transition process.

No. 3 Morris Claiborne, Cornerback, LSU

Best-Case Scenario: No. 5 Tampa Bay Buccaneers

LSU's Morris Claiborne doesn't possess the same athleticism as fellow teammate Patrick Peterson, but he's a much better natural cover man. Claiborne has a great feel for the routes developing around him and knows when to break on the ball. He's a physical defender who loves to play near the line in bump-and-run coverage.

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers could lose both of their starting cornerbacks from last season. Ronde Barber is considering retirement and Aqib Talib's off-the-field issues could make it tough for him and new coach Greg Schiano to get along.

The addition of Claiborne would allow the team to move on with a new top-level cornerback.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 6 Washington Redskins

DeAngelo Hall gets a lot of media attention, but isn't a true lockdown cornerback. His impact comes from the turnovers he creates while jumping routes. However, when he misses the interception, it often results in blown coverage and a big play.

The Washington Redskins would benefit from someone that provides better coverage and a few less turnovers.

No. 2 Robert Griffin III, Quarterback, Baylor

Best-Case Scenario: No. 2 Overall

Baylor's Robert Griffin III is a special player who will make an immediate impact in the NFL. His explosiveness and ability to find open targets makes him a highly sought-after prospect. The St. Louis Rams are currently in the process of auctioning of the No. 2 pick to the highest bidder.

Franchises like the Cleveland Browns, Washington Redskins, Miami Dolphins, Kansas City Chiefs and New York Jets have all been mentioned in the rumors.

The best-case scenario for Griffin III would be to land with the Cleveland Browns. I know, this might sound a little crazy. However, this franchise has a defense on the verge of becoming one of the better units in the NFL. They also have Pat Shurmur as the head coach, who has a strong history of working well with young quarterbacks. Griffin III's development depends on where he lands.

Worst-Case Scenario: No. 2 Overall

Landing with the Washington Redskins would be the worst-case scenario for Robert Griffin III. This franchise seems to lack direction and stability since Mike Shanahan took over. His handling of the quarterback position is the main reason for their struggles the past few seasons.

Shanahan doesn't seem to have a handle on this team and it isn't a good situation for a young quarterback.

No. 1 Andrew Luck, Quarterback, Stanford

Best- and Worst-Case Scenario: No. 1 Indianapolis Colts

The Indianapolis Colts will use the No. 1 overall pick to select Stanford's Andrew Luck. His addition immediately gives the Colts hope for another strong decade of success. Not many franchises have the opportunity to transition from Peyton Manning to Andrew Luck.

Luck is both mentally and physically ready to step in and make an immediate impact. His time at Stanford gave him the opportunity to learn a lot of pro-style concepts. Indianapolis' decision to bring Bruce Arians in at offensive coordinator will also help Luck succeed during his rookie season.

The Colts are going to look different with Luck under center, but that doesn't mean they can't find a lot of success.