2012 NFL Draft: Late-Round Studs That Teams Will Go After

In each NFL draft, there are late-round steals who can make or break a team.

Players like Tom Brady, Stevie Johnson and Wes Welker have proved that it doesn't matter what round you're drafted in. As long as you can play football and really dominate on the field, you will get playing time. 

While much of the attention and publicity goes to the first-round draft picks, these late-round studs will be a positive addition to any NFL team.


Chris Polk, RB (Washington)

At 5'11" and 215 pounds, Chris Polk is one of the best running backs in the draft. However, he's still projected to go in the third or fourth round. 

The Washington RB has both the size and speed to defeat his opponents. He runs an explosive game with a wide base and good balance. He was extremely productive during his final three years at Washington, rushing for more than 1,000 yards each season. 

While he's definitely a supreme running back, I don't see Polk being drafted any earlier than the third round. Many teams aren't looking for running backs that early in the draft.


Jeff Fuller, WR (Texas A&M)

Fuller has the potential to be a big steal in the late rounds. In his junior year, he posted 1,066 receiving yards, 72 receptions and 12 touchdowns. His senior season was plagued with injury and inconsistency, causing Fuller's production to fall to 828 yards, 70 receptions and six touchdowns. 

Fuller is a good asset in the red zone. His height and leaping ability make up for his speed, as it allows the quarterback to throw the ball only where he can get it.

The wide receiver is projected as a fifth-round pick, but any team who drafts him will get a steal.


B.J. Coleman, QB (Chattanooga)

Coleman is a sleeper at the quarterback position. At 6'5"and 220 pounds, he has the natural size to play the position. Coleman's good arm strength and accuracy help him complete his passes.

Even though Coleman has a good skill set, he needs to improve his footwork before he can be effective in the NFL. He is a hard worker and very determined, which makes it easier for coaches to develop him into a top quarterback.

Coleman is projected to be drafted in the fourth or fifth round.