2012 NFL Draft: Projecting the Most Successful Player at Every Position

There's a difference between ranking someone as the top NFL draft prospect at their position and claiming they will find the most success. Success depends on many factors, including skill level and landing in the right environment.

Ability determines most of these projections because we don't know where each player will land.

The upcoming slideshow breaks down the players I figure will find the most success at the next level. I also provide a sleeper pick at each of the positions. There are a handful of positions where the top player is easily identified, and others come with some controversy.

Offensive Tackle

Left Tackle: Jonathan Martin, Stanford

In order to be an effective NFL left tackle, a prospect must be able to protect the passer. Jonathan Martin's quick shuffle, balance and natural bend give him the skills needed to hold up against all types of pass-rushers.

He's a more fluid athlete than USC's Matt Kalil, who's widely considered the top overall offensive line prospect. This fluidity makes him a stronger pass-protector, and thus gives him a better chance for long-term success.

Right Tackle: Cordy Glenn, Georgia

During his college career, Cordy Glenn filled many roles along the offensive line. He lined up at both guard and tackle spots. This experience allowed him to gain the tools necessary to make an immediate impact in the NFL.

Glenn showed this past season that he's fluid enough to hold up against top-level pass-rushers. His quick feet allow him to reach the edge while his change-of-direction ability helps him react to counter moves. However, Glenn's run-blocking skills are the strength of his game.

Sleeper: Jeff Allen, Illinois

The length and strong anchor of Jeff Allen give him the potential to develop into an above-average NFL starter. His use of angles and quickness from stance to set helps him overcome his limitations as an athlete.

Allen projects as a right tackle, with the ability to also play some left tackle or guard. This is the type of versatility that usually results in playing time early in a career.

Guard

Guard: David DeCastro, Stanford

There's a strong possibility that David DeCastro comes off the board within the first 15 picks. He's an all-around solid prospect who will immediately improve the play of the entire offensive line. His high football IQ helps put him in proper position, while making those around him better.

DeCastro's use of leverage and lower-body strength makes him a very powerful run-blocker. This also helps him anchor in the passing game.

He possesses the skill set needed to develop into a perennial Pro Bowler.

Sleeper: Jaymes Brooks, Virginia Tech

Jaymes Brooks is a solidly built prospect with good athleticism. He works hard to get inside hand placement, which helps him drive defenders off the line.

His natural bend and smooth shuffle allow him to do a good job in pass protection.

Brooks figures to come off the board somewhere in the middle rounds, but still could work his way on the field early in his career. He may never develop into an All-Pro performer, but he's more than capable of becoming an above-average starter.

Center

Center: Peter Konz, Wisconsin

Solidifying the center position is a very underrated factor in a team's success. Players like Peter Konz possess the ability to make those around him better. He uses his football IQ and awareness to ensure everyone knows their assignments.

Konz isn't just an extra coach, as he also possesses excellent strength and quickness. His ability to generate a push off the line helps him open running lanes. He received strong coaching at Wisconsin that made him a technically sound player.

He figures to come off the board late in the first round or early in the second round.

Sleeper: William Vlachos, Alabama

There's a very good chance that William Vlachos goes undrafted. However, his sound technique and use of leverage give him a chance to make a roster. He does a great job fighting for inside hand placement, which allows him to control defenders.

Vlachos isn't an impressive physical specimen, but he knows how to play solid football. Teams that don't ask their center to pull should take a late-round or free-agent flier on Vlachos.

Quarterback

Quarterback: Andrew Luck, Stanford

Andrew Luck is the complete package, boasting both good athleticism and a high football IQ. These skills are combined with Luck's strong work ethic, which gives him an even better chance to succeed.

Also, don't discount the importance of his experience at Stanford and working under Jim Harbaugh.

The most successful quarterbacks don't just possess elite physical skills, they also bring strong leadership. Luck will put in the time necessary to succeed while also working to make those around him better.

There's little doubt in my mind that Andrew Luck will develop into the best quarterback in this draft class.

Sleeper: Kirk Cousins, Michigan State

It's tough for evaluators to agree on how much possessing the "it" factor should weigh into assessing a player's stock. Kirk Cousins will be rated differently because of this fact. He's a smart player who knows how to win football games. However, he doesn't boast the athletic abilities that will wow evaluators.

What Cousins lacks in physical abilities he makes up for with instincts and leadership. He's very aware of his surroundings and does a great job anticipating his throws. Cousins is capable of taking the field early in his career and finding success.

Running Back

Running Back: Trent Richardson, Alabama

There aren't many running backs in the NFL that boast Trent Richardson's wide range of skills. He's the definition of an every-down back. His combination of quickness, balance and strength allow him to impact the game in many different ways.

Richardson runs with a low center of gravity, making it difficult for defenders to bring him down on initial contact. He also boasts the long speed needed to score from anywhere on the field. However, it's his blocking and catching ability that make him a well-rounded player. This will keep him on the field during passing situations.

Sleeper: Doug Martin, Boise State

Doug Martin isn't exactly an unknown prospect, but he doesn't get enough consideration as the potential top running back in this class. He boasts a compact build and the leg strength needed to fight through contact. His explosive first step allows him to quickly press the hole and avoid lost yardage.

Martin reminds me a lot of Ray Rice, and he could easily have the same type of career.

Wide Receiver

Wide Receiver: Michael Floyd, Notre Dame

Michael Floyd's size, speed and experience can't be matched by any of the other top receiver prospects. His off-the-field issues at Notre Dame helped him mature and better appreciate his opportunities. Floyd also learned a wide array of offensive schemes during his college career, which will help with his transition to the NFL.

He's a well-rounded player capable of attacking the deep part of the field, working the underneath routes and picking up yards after the catch. Floyd will be in the running for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

Sleeper: Stephen Hill, Georgia Tech

After an impressive combine performance, Stephen Hill's draft stock is at an all-time high. His combination of size and speed gives him the potential to develop into a dynamic playmaker. However, his lack of opportunities at Georgia Tech makes him a very raw prospect. Georgia Tech's option attack held Hill to only 28 receptions this past season.

Hill will need to land in a good situation in order for him to maximize his skills. His athletic abilities are what will make him one the more sought-after prospects come April.

Tight End

Tight End: Coby Fleener, Stanford

Coby Fleener is one of four Stanford prospects to top my position rankings. He's a tall and athletic tight end capable of creating mismatches in the passing game. Fleener's experience at Stanford gave him the opportunity to learn pro-style concepts, which will help with his transition to the next level.

He needs to improve as a blocker, but he shows the willingness needed to develop. Any team drafting Fleener will look to utilize him in the passing game, which increases his chances to find success.

Sleeper: Ladarius Green, Louisiana-Lafayette

Ladarius Green's 4.53 40 time at the combine gave evaluators a glimpse of his athleticism. Green is still very raw, but he has the potential to develop into a dynamic playmaker. His speed combined with a 6'6" frame makes him a nightmare for defensive game plans.

The increasing involvement of tight ends in offensive attacks means that someone like Green could become one of the top playmakers in the NFL. Tight ends tend to drop a little in the draft, allowing mid-round picks to make a major impact.

Defensive End

4-3 Defensive End: Quinton Coples, North Carolina

The size, length and quickness of Quinton Coples make him a perfect fit to line up at defensive end in a 4-3 scheme.

He does a good job both rushing the passer and holding strong against the run. However, he'll be expected to consistently post double-digit sacks each season at the next level.

Coples' hot-and-cold motor worries a lot of evaluators, but his upside keeps him in play to come off the board in the top 10. When Coples gives 100 percent effort, he's a disruptive force bordering on unstoppable. With the right coaching staff in place he could develop into one of the league's top pass-rushers.

5-Technique: Kendall Reyes, Connecticut

The continuing growth of the 3-4 defense makes versatility a very attractive trait for a prospect.

Kendall Reyes possesses the skills needed to fit multiple positions and schemes. His explosive first step allows him to penetrate the pocket and disrupt the timing of the offense. He also has a power base which helps him anchor at the point of attack.

Reyes fits at either the 3-technique or 5-technique spots along the defensive line.

Sleeper: Malik Jackson, Tennessee

At 6'5" and 285 pounds, Malik Jackson has the frame needed to be a well-rounded defensive end. He combines a quick first step with a nonstop motor to generate pressure on the quarterback. His quick and violent hands keep blockers off his frame, allowing him to work towards the ball carrier.

I'd have no problem pulling the trigger on Jackson late in the second round.

Defensive Tackle

3-Technique: Fletcher Cox, Mississippi State

Teams running a 4-3 defense need to keep a close eye on Fletcher Cox. His initial burst makes it tough for offenses to keep him out of the backfield. This ability to penetrate the pocket disrupts the timing of an entire offense.

Cox combines that initial burst with a nonstop motor which consistently puts him around the football. His athleticism gives him versatility, as he's capable of lining up at defensive tackle and defensive end. At times, he actually appears better suited to play defensive end.

Nose Tackle: Dontari Poe, Memphis

After an impressive combine appearance, Dontari Poe moved himself into the mid- to early first-round discussion. He possesses a rare combination of size and quickness which gives him a ton of potential. It also increases his versatility, as some teams may view him as a 3-technique option.

However, Poe's future is as a space-eating nose tackle who will be asked to penetrate from time to time. The Kansas City Chiefs should take a long hard look at him with the No. 11 pick.

Sleeper: Brandon Thompson, Clemson

Brandon Thompson doesn't get enough credit for his playmaking ability. His explosive first step is underrated, and arguably the fastest among the defensive tackle prospects. He possesses a solid lower half which allows him to hold at the point of attack.

The most impressive part of Thompson's game is his ability to play behind the line of scrimmage. He's quick enough to shoot the gap and strong enough to push the pocket. He has the potential to be the top defensive tackle to come out of this draft.

Linebacker

Middle Linebacker: Luke Kuechly, Boston College

Posting some impressive numbers at the combine helped Luke Kuechly solidify himself as a top-15 prospect. He has great instincts and now has the workout numbers needed to increase his potential.

Kuechly is a tackling machine who quickly diagnoses plays and does a good job reading his keys. There's no reason to think he isn't the early favorite to win Defensive Rookie of the Year. His combination of athleticism, football IQ and leadership makes him one of the safest picks in the draft.

Outside Linebacker: Zach Brown, North Carolina

Zach Brown's speed and athleticism give him tremendous upside. He's able to cover a ton of ground and make plays from sideline to sideline. His explosive short-area burst helps him close on the ball carrier and break on the ball in pass coverage.

Brown is a four-down player who doesn't come off the field on passing downs and can contribute on special teams. He needs to improve his strength and ability to diagnose plays, but his athleticism gives him a high ceiling.

3-4 Outside Linebacker: Courtney Upshaw, Alabama

Linebackers in a 3-4 system are asked to play multiple roles but most are expected to generate pressure on the quarterback. Courtney Upshaw possesses a wide array of pass-rush moves that helps him keep the offensive line on its heels. His combination of strength and quickness allows him to utilize a power/speed attack.

Upshaw also does a great job setting the edge against the run. His powerful base helps him hold at the point of attack. He then uses his strong hands to disengage and pursue the ball carrier. Upshaw is a well-rounded player who will make an immediate impact.

Sleeper: Mychal Kendricks, Cal

Mychal Kendricks turned heads with his 4.47 40 time at the combine, forcing a lot of evaluators to take another look at his game tape. They learned Kendricks is more than just a speed linebacker, as he also plays with power.

His speed gives him versatility and more upside. He would be a great fit in the middle of a Cover 2 defense, where he could use his speed to reach the deep middle. Don't be surprised to see Kendricks come off the board somewhere in the second round.

Defensive Back

Cornerback: Morris Claiborne, LSU

Morris Claiborne combines good athleticism with an aggressive style of play, making him a fit for multiple defenses. His quickness and fluidity give him the potential to develop into a top-notch lockdown cornerback.

However, it's his ball skills that put him in the elite-prospect category. He has a good pair of hands that make him a threat to create turnovers. This is a player who will shut down some of the top NFL receivers while also pulling down interceptions. He's absolutely worthy of a top-10 pick.

Safety: Mark Barron, Alabama

The versatility of Mark Barron makes him a very attractive prospect. He does an excellent job playing in the box while also showing good range in coverage. His time at Alabama gave him experience in pressure situations against top-level competition.

Barron also has a high football IQ that he uses to put himself and others in proper position. He's the type of leader teams need in the back end to be successful.

Sleeper: Josh Robinson, UCF

Josh Robinson was another player who really helped his stock with a strong performance at the combine. His 4.33 40 time earned him the title of the fastest player at the 2012 combine. However, Robinson isn't just exceptionally fast; he also has good coverage ability.

He still needs to improve his technique, but the sky is the limit for Robinson.