2012 NFL Draft: Players Guaranteed to Slide Far Down in the First Round

We are quickly approaching the 2012 NFL Draft, and by now NFL evaluators have gotten a good look at a lot of the top prospects.

Teams have seen game tape, the combine and prospects' pro days and now have a good feel for what these guys bring to the table.

Here's a look at three fringe first-rounders who will slide.

Jerel Worthy, DT, Michigan State

Jerel Worthy has good size and quickness, but that's not going to change his game tape. While he was impressive at times at Michigan State, he wasn't as dominant as many expected he would be. His motor is inconsistent and his average instincts and recognition make him a work-in-progress in my opinion.

The bottom line is, Worthy was seen as a top-10 prospect in the 2012 Draft class before his final season at Michigan State, and he didn't perform like one.

Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

During Alfonzo Dennard's final season at Nebraska, one NFL evaluator said, via Pro Football Weekly, "(Nebraska CB) Alfonzo Dennard can't run. He's little and stiff. I don't think he’ll survive on the edges. He does not play big. I don't see a top-level cornerback at all."

It doesn't help that Dennard ran the 40-yard dash in 4.53 seconds at the NFL combine and saw several top receivers, including South Carolina's Alshon Jeffery, burn him last season.

Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina

Zach Brown is a lightning-quick athlete who has outstanding coverage skills and is a great fit in a 4-3 defense at the next level. He practically glides around the field.

But some have questioned Brown's discipline and it didn't help that he had poor interviews at the combine.

Reported Tony Pauline of DraftInsider.net on March 5:

"

We posted weeks ago that coaches from (North Carolina) have not been giving Quinton Coples ringing endorsement. We are hearing the same about linebacker Zach Brown and right now most scouts would be surprised if the talented defender makes it into the first round.

"

What happened in these interviews? We don't know for sure but it certainly sounds like Brown drove some NFL teams away. It's a shame, too, because I like Brown as a player.

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