2012 NFL Draft Rumors: Latest Buzz on Hottest Prospects

The countdown is officially on, and rumors are already flying. Soon enough it will be draft day.

One thing that is not a rumor is the record 26 prospects the NFL invited to the 2012 draft, but the league has added a new twist regarding those attending—they won't show any prospects on phones in the Green Room prior to being selected. In recent years the all-inclusive draft coverage has killed some of the suspense of Goodell announcing the pick and the league is hoping to win that back.

This means we may still find out if Brady Quinn is hiding back there, and could still see a live look in every now and then of a guy who has fallen down the board.

But that is getting ahead of ourselves as we have a week to go. So until then, here's a look at the latest buzz on some of the draft's hottest prospects.

Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

A report from ESPN's Adam Schefter says that Luck was told by the Colts that they'll select him No. 1 overall.

Honestly, no surprise here, and we can even say "it's about time."

Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

RGIII is going to go No. 2 overall to the Redskins, but there was an interesting bit of information reported on the Heisman Trophy winner. According to Bob McGinn of the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel, one scout's report on Griffin says:

"

"This guy, the only way he gets big plays with his feet is if he's got a wide-open field and the sea opens for him. He's got a little bit of a selfish streak, too. Everybody was laying on Cam, but for some reason this guy has become gloves off. He doesn't treat anybody good."

Another scout also questioned the way Griffin deals with people.

"

Again, this won't affect his draft stock, but it is worth noting. 

Mark Barron, S, Alabama

The consensus All-American has overtaken Ryan Tannehill as the draft's hottest prospect. NFL Network's Charlie Casserly has even said the draft's top safety is worthy of a top-10 selection.

That's damn high for a guy with limited upside, but there are a number of teams that need a safety.

Barron will be a starter for a long time in this league, but it's unlikely he'll be an elite player. He could go as high as No. 8 and is unlikely to last past No. 16.

Matt Kalil, OT, USC

For nigh three months now, Kalil has been penciled in as the No. 3 overall pick to the Vikings. That story is quickly changing as reports have surfaced with Minnesota targeting Justin Blackmon and/or Morris Claiborne.

The reports also show that the Browns have shown increased interest in Kalil.

This latest bit of buzz has less to do with Kalil and more to do with the Vikes' team needs, but it is something that cannot be ignored.

Dontari Poe, DT, Memphis

The massive defensive lineman has a selection range of No. 9 to No. 24. His unique combination of size and athleticism is great, but there are plenty who question how he'll turn out as a pro.

One team who is hoping he does fall is the Pittsburgh Steelers.

Poe's name is one to watch in the coming week.