2012 NFL Draft: Pass-Rushers Who Will Make Instant Impact

There are certain positions in the NFL where players can make an immediate impact as rookies. Running back. Defensive tackle. The offensive line.

Players at other positions, like quarterback, wide receiver and cornerback, often—though not always—have to undergo an adjustment period.

Pass-rushers are a mixed bag. Last year saw Von Miller and Aldon Smith make an instant impact for the Denver Broncos and San Francisco 49ers, respectively, and pass-rushers have taken home eight of the last 17 AP Defensive Rookie of the Year awards.

But the position can still represent a major adjustment for other rushers heading into the league.

So which edge-rushers this year will skip the adjustment period and make an instant impact?

Let's find out.

Melvin Ingram, South Carolina

Ingram has the combination of size and athleticism to play several positions on defense, and he could become a dangerous hybrid weapon like a Jason Pierre-Paul or Mathias Kiwanuka for the New York Giants.

But he also has the strength to move to the interior and rush the passer from the defensive tackle position, namely on passing downs.

His natural position is defensive end, though he is certainly capable of playing outside linebacker in the 3-4. The biggest knock against him is his short arms, but with his versatility, I doubt it will hamper his ability to get to the passer.

Ingram looks like a weapon and fun toy for a creative defensive coordinator to utilize immediately. He'll make an impact next year.

Nick Perry, USC

Nick Perry's combination of speed (4.64 40-yard dash), athleticism (38.5" vertical jump), strength (35 reps of 225 pounds on the bench press) and college production (9.5 sacks and 13 tackles for loss last season) make him an intriguing prospect.

He is capable of making the adjustment to the 3-4, though he may make an earlier impact if he remains as a 4-3 defensive end.

With his excellent balance, power and speed, he can rush the passer in a number of ways or set the edge in the running game. He plays low, and his motor can't be questioned. I expect him to make an immediate impact at the next level.

Courtney Upshaw, Alabama

Whether Upshaw will have the lateral agility to play as a 3-4 outside linebacker remains to be seen. And there have been questions about just how good of a pass-rusher he will be in the NFL.

Let me answer them for you—a very good one.

In the biggest game of his career in last year's BCS national championship, Upshaw was named the game's MVP, and for the season he finished with 9.5 sacks and 18 tackles for loss.

No matter which position he plays, he may need to be a situational rusher his rookie year, similar to the role Aldon Smith played for the Niners last year. Smith certainly made an impact in that role.

One thing is for certain—Upshaw is a football player and a true gamer. He'll be a good one from day one.

Hit me up on Twitter—my tweets light the lamp like Danny Briere.