2012 NFL Draft: Quarterback and Most Top-Heavy Positions

The NFL draft has become so difficult to predict because of all the different dynamics in play during draft weekend. Top-heavy positions are one of those dynamics, which can often cause teams to reach for certain players instead of missing out on the position altogether.

Let's take a look at three positions that fall into that category this season. They will surely have a major impact on the draft as franchises attempt to fill holes.

Quarterback

Andrew Luck and Robert Griffin III are the draft's two best prospects and should help revitalize the offenses of the Indianapolis Colts and Washington Redskins. After that, things get a little bit shaky, with Ryan Tannehill likely the next QB off the board.

Since so many teams need quarterbacks, Tannehill has become a first-round lock and there's even been talk about teams potentially moving up to the third slot to grab him. That's too high, but judging by the level of talent after him, teams may feel it's worth the risk.

While Brandon Weeden and Kirk Cousins are popular names because of their success in college, the chances they ever take the league by storm are slim. Other than Luck and Griffin, there isn't much to get excited about.

Safety

No player will benefit more from a weak position than Alabama's Mark Barron. He's the only safety even worth considering in the opening round. Harrison Smith would be the other guy worth taking before the end of Round 2. Otherwise, there isn't any depth.

So, even though Barron would probably be at optimal value very late in the first round, some team will likely take him much earlier than that. They know that if they don't land him, their chances of getting an impact safety later on are basically zero.

Players such as Antonio Allen or Aaron Henry are worth a mid-round flier, but expectations will need to remain low since the transition period will be an extended one.

Inside Linebacker

Inside linebacker is another position with two potential stars and then a whole bunch of toss-ups. Luke Kuechly and Dont'a Hightower are both destined to have long NFL careers, but after them, the outlook isn't nearly as promising.

Mychal Kendricks, who will likely be the next insider backer off the board, will be limited due to his size. Vontaze Burfict was a popular name a couple months ago, but the draft process has lowered his stock dramatically.

In reality, there just aren't any players worth getting excited about after Kuechly and Hightower. So, if your favorite team has a weakness in that area, they better target one of those guys early.