2012 NFL Draft Projections: Where Will Last Year's Heisman Hopefuls Land?

Heisman Trophy candidates do not always turn into successful NFL players, but this year's crop will receive plenty of attention at the 2012 NFL Draft.

Robert Griffin III and Andrew Luck were the top-two finishers on the ballot, and are almost certain to be the top-two picks in the draft. 

Montee Ball and Tyrann Mathieu will both return to school next year but Trent Richardson, the fifth finalist, will likely be taken off the board in the top 10.

A few other players just missed out on an invitation to New York, but can still get their glory on April 26. Here's a draft breakdown on four of college football's top prospects from a season ago:

Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

Strengths: Trent Richardson is the most complete running back to enter the draft since Adrian Peterson in 2007. At 228 pounds, he has devastating power, but also boasts blazing speed and incredible agility.

He showed great vision during his collegiate career, waiting for blocks to develop and picking the right holes. His excellent hands add the final piece and make Richardson the complete package.

Weaknesses: As far as his skill set is concerned, Richardson does not have any glaring weaknesses. However, any running back looking to carry a full load across an NFL season will be at risk for an injury.

Projection: Round 1, pick No. 4, Cleveland Browns.

Peyton Hillis proved to be a flash-in-the-pan and Cleveland cannot pass up on a chance to have a franchise player like Richardson as the centerpiece of its offense.

Case Keenum, QB, Houston

Strengths: Case Keenum put up gaudy numbers during his senior season at Houston. He completed 71 percent of his passes for 5,631 yards and finished the season with 48 touchdown passes compared to just five interceptions.

Weaknesses: While his production suggests that he can be an NFL-caliber player, his size and decision-making raise questions about his future at the next level. Keenum is 6'1", a few inches short of the ideal height for a QB. He also played in the spread offense at Houston, and may not be able to adapt to a pro-style offense.

Projection: Round 7, pick No. 204, Arizona Cardinals.

If the Cardinals are able to sign Peyton Manning, then Keenum will have a great tutor to help him learn how to be an NFL QB. If Arizona misses out on Manning, the team will still get a player with potential late in the draft.

LaMichael James, RB, Oregon

Strengths: LaMichael James ranked fifth in the nation with a 7.3 yards per carry average, and was first among backs with 150 or more carries. He excelled in Oregon's fast-paced offense and was one of the most productive and dynamic runners in the country.

His elusiveness and pass-catching abilities make him an ideal fit for a scatback role in the NFL.

Weaknesses: At 5'8" and 194 pounds, James may not have the frame to withstand the punishment of the pro game. In addition, a domestic violence conviction in 2010 has raised concerns about his character.

Projection: Round 2, pick No. 39, St. Louis Rams.

The Rams have their "thunder" with Steven Jackson, and could add the "lightning" by drafting James. The two players complement each other perfectly, and would help take pressure off Sam Bradford.

Kellen Moore, QB, Boise State

Strengths: Kellen Moore went 50-3 as a starter, setting the record for wins in a collegiate career. He completed 74.3 percent of his passes during his senior year, and was an unquestioned leader. Moore elevated his game in important situations and was a consummate teammate and captain.

Weaknesses: Moore stands just 6'0" tall and is too short to be a top prospect. His unorthodox release is lower than it should be, compounding the problems cause by his height. 

Projections: Round 7, pick No. 218, Green Bay Packers.

The last time Green Bay took a project-QB in the seventh round was in 2008, when the team drafted Matt Flynn. This move turned out well, and the Packers will likely have to replace Flynn after he leaves in free agency. Moore would be a great fit as Aaron Rodgers' new backup.