2012 NFL Draft: Finding the Biggest Steals in the Late Rounds

Talk surrounding the 2012 NFL Draft is dominated by guys like Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III, but some of the best players from this year's class will emerge in the later rounds.

Every year, a few guys prove that it doesn't matter where you're drafted; if you can play, you can play. 

For evidence of this, look no further than last season, when 2005 seventh-round pick Ryan Fitzpatrick was throwing touchdowns to 2008 seventh-rounder Stevie Johnson.

I'm expecting these three late-round prospects to follow in their footsteps by having solid NFL careers.

Jeff Fuller, WR (Texas A&M)

Fuller should have left school after his junior season when he posted 1,066 yards and 12 touchdowns on 72 receptions. However, he chose to return to the Aggies, and his draft stock took a major hit.

Still, Fuller has elite size (6'4", 220 pounds), and his 2011 production (70 catches, 828 yards, six touchdowns) wasn't exactly bad.

He doesn't have great speed, but with his height, leaping ability and body control, Fuller should be a monster in the red zone. He'll likely be a fifth- or sixth-round pick, but if he improves his route-running, Fuller will definitely outperform his draft position.

Jacquies Smith, DE (Missouri)

Smith will be a valuable asset to any team looking for an explosive pass-rusher off the edge. He's got great burst off the line and uses his quick first step to gain position on sluggish tackles. He also has the versatility to drop into coverage if the situation requires it.

Smith is not very big (6'3", 253 pounds), but his speed will cause problems for opposing offensive linemen. Look for him to be a steal after being picked up in the fifth or sixth round.

James Hanna, TE (Oklahoma)

Hanna didn't put up huge numbers last season (27 receptions, 381 yards, two touchdowns), but his potential is through the roof.

He has ideal size for a tight end (6'4", 252 pounds) and insane athleticism. At the combine, he ran a 4.49 40-yard dash and posted a 36.5-inch vertical jump.

Hanna is definitely raw, but with some proper coaching, he could end up as the best tight end from this year's class. I'm expecting him to have a very good NFL career after being drafted in the early-to-mid-sixth round.