NFL Draft 2012: Best Small-School Prospects to Watch for

On numerous occasions we have seen small-school prospects make a significant mark in pro football. 

Jerry Rice and Shannon Sharpe are both from non-FBS schools and are arguably the best players at their respective position. Now, we obviously can't expect any small-school player to reach that level at their position: however, it's just proof that the no one should ever overlook a small-school prospect.

Here, let's take a look at the best for the 2012 NFL draft.

Amini Silatolu: OG, Midwestern State

A dynamic offensive lineman, Amini Silatolu is an expected Round 2 selection and yet, he's from an NCAA Division II school. Most certainly a dominating performer in the trenches, Silatolu will still have a tough time getting acclimated to the speed of pro football (way faster than Division II).

The good news, though, is that Silatolu has great size, lateral quickness and balance to make an immediate impact. The man also spent some time at tackle during his career, so the versatility and football IQ is there.

Another bright spot from Silatolu resides in his blocking style—mean. Fires off the ball quickly and can lengthen running lanes at the second level. Pass-blocking is solid thanks to a good low center of gravity. However, it will be interesting to see him match up against NFL linemen.

Trumaine Johnson: CB, Montana

At 6'2", 205 pounds, Montana's Trumaine Johnson has the agility and quick feet to become a No. 1 NFL corner. Defending 25 passes between 2010 and 2011, Johnson also made 98 tackles.

An intelligent corner who knows how to mix up and disguise the coverage, Johnson can allow a defense to blitz him off the edge and the linebackers inside against the run—as he can set the edge quite well.

With his combo of size, speed, field awareness and strength, Johnson can be that corner-safety hybrid that really gives a defense an advantage. His play recognition skills will benefit from sitting in a Cover 2 or Cover 3, and can roll down to man-up on tight ends or slot receivers.

Brian Quick: WR, Appalachian State

Possessing the size of a true No. 1 receiver, Brian Quick averaged over 15 yards per catch and accumulated almost 1,100 yards last season, including 11 touchdowns.

A solid top-gear, Quick is literally quick off the ball and has the strength to get separation when facing press coverage. An expected late-third or early fourth-round selection, Quick's reliability over the middle and ability to get yards after the catch is impressive.

Considering that pro football is gradually moving into a fast-snap league—along with being so reliant on the passing game—Quick can be that fade-route or double-move deep threat to go over the top. After all: the home-run ball is one exciting play.

Josh Norman: CB, Coastal Carolina

Another big corner from the FCS level, Josh Norman comes in at 6', 200 pounds and simply blanked all opposing receivers.

Defending 21 passes between 2010 and 2011, Norman also recorded 117 tackles and forced two fumbles during that span. His ball skills when trying to make a play are impressive, so it's also possible we see him get used at safety since Norman's instincts are second-to-none. 

Courtesy of his size and speed, Norman makes for a perfect nickel or dime-back to cover tight ends and slot receivers from the spread formation. To that end, it will only help his development in man coverage and the defense will be using his reactionary skills to the fullest.

John Rozum on Twitter.