NFL Draft 2012: Best Prospects No One Is Talking About
They might not be surefire first-round picks, but they possess loads of talent, and aren't receiving as much pre-draft notoriety as they deserve.
Let's take a look at three top prospects that no one's talking about.
Brandon Thompson, DT, Clemson
Before the start of the annual pre-draft hype building, Thompson was slated by some draft analysts as a late first-round selection.
Good luck finding him in the first round in any recently updated mock drafts.
However, Thompson's a quality defensive tackle with disruptive tendencies who shouldn't have a major issue acclimating himself to the professional game.
He's 6'2'' and 315 pounds with a powerful frame and sudden burst off the line. Thompson is a two-down defensive tackle who really stands out on tape.
The 22-year-old senior has an NFL-ready body and would be a fantastic fit in the middle of a 4-3 alignment.
George Iloka, S, Boise State
The safety class isn't deep this year. It just isn't. That doesn't mean there aren't some sound prospects besides Mark Barron who will make an impact on Sundays in the future.
I'm enamored by Iloka's frame and the upside he represents.
The Boise State standout is interesting because he's nearly 6'4'' and 225 pounds with great range in center field.
He demonstrated fine athletic ability during his collegiate career but could improve his tackling skills, though, he projects to the free safety position.
A team will be lucky to grab Iloka in the second or third round.
Coaches would love to mold a player with his physical attributes.
And he's got an awesome name.
A.J. Jenkins, WR, Illinois
Jenkins isn't a big-name wideout in this class, but he's a guy who could pop up as a household name in a few years.
He was the focal point of the Fighting Illini offense last year, catching 90 passes for 1,276 yards with eight receiving touchdowns.
At a shade above 6'0'' and only 186 pounds, he could add more strength, but only if it doesn't take away from his deceptive speed and lateral agility that allowed him to frequently get open in 2011.
He's not a true burner, but he can get down the field and beat cornerbacks on the go route. Jenkins is also a sharp route runner with good hands and above-average YAC ability.
A great pick in the second or third round.
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