2012 NFL Draft: 3 Teams That Will Become Contenders on Draft Day

As the NFL draft nears, optimism is once again at an all time high.

On April 26, fans across the nation will gather around communal flat-screens, hoping their team lands the missing piece that will take them to the promise land. As their potential saviors drape themselves in expensive (and at times, garish) evening wear, scouts and management will attempt to look past the hype of Combine stats and Wonderlic scores to find their next franchise player. 

As history and probability have taught us, not all of them will succeed. But every year, a few select teams strike proverbial oil and find themselves turning from a pretender to a contender in the process of seven rounds. 

Here are three teams that could undergo this transformation during and after the 2012 draft. 

Cincinnati Bengals

The Bengals made the playoffs for only the third time since 1990 on the arm of rookie standout Andy Dalton, but if they want to improve upon last year's 9-8 record, a strong draft class will be crucial. Carson Palmer's midseason departure last year may allow them to do just that. 

As a result of the Palmer trade, the Bengals now have nine total picks in 2012, including the 17th and 21st selections in the first round. With such an abundance of picks, the Bengals will be able to fill most of their needs that have to be addressed, as well as shore up some of their depth at better positions.

The most pressing matters to attend to revolve around the offensive line. Starter Nate Livings left for Dallas this offseason, and the Bengals could use youth and depth on an aging line. If Cincinnati takes G David Decastro at 17, as well as add another weapon for Dalton with their 21st pick, they could take the first steps towards another postseason appearance. 

Carolina Panthers

Last year's Cam Newton-led offense provided Panthers' fans with plenty of optimism for the coming seasons, and adding surrounding talent through this year's draft should only increase their excitement.

Carolina had no problems scoring points in 2011 but will have to focus on the defensive side of the ball in the draft if it hopes to move into "contender" status. The Panthers were 24th and 25th in passing yards and rushing yards allowed but will be able to aid their struggling defense with their No. 9 first-round pick. The likely selection is DE Melvin Ingram, the top pass-rushing prospect in this year's draft.

If the Panthers can add Ingram on the line, as well as bolster a weak secondary with its later selections, they may have enough talent on defense to complement their explosive offense. If they can succeed, Carolina may be ready for the playoffs in 2012.

Buffalo Bills

Usually scrambling to rebuild at this time of the year, a big offseason has left the Bills with high expectations heading into this year's draft.

The signing of star free agent Mario Williams as well as talented DE Mark Anderson has drastically improved Buffalo's weakest area in its offensive line. With its most urgent need already addressed, Buffalo has 10 picks available to help build a team that started 5-2 before collapsing down the stretch. The most important necessary addition will be on the O-line, where the Bills lost starter Demetress Bell to free agency.

If the Bills can replace Bell on the line, as well as add some depth in the secondary, they should have all the pieces necessary to make a run towards the playoffs next season.