2012 NFL Draft Predictions: Fringe First-Rounders Who Will Star in Pros

You expect the elite prospects to star in the NFL, but fringe first-rounders are more difficult to peg down. Sometimes they star, sometimes they flop.

The 2012 NFL draft will be no different, as several fringe first-round prospects could either be steals (like Mark Ingram) or duds (like Jonathan Baldwin).

Here's a look at the fringe first-rounders who will star in the pros.

3. Rueben Randle, WR, LSU

Rueben Randle, with his quickness, length and fluidity, has all the makings of a solid pro. He produced at LSU despite not having the greatest pocket passers, improving his play each year. In his junior season, he racked up 917 yards and eight touchdowns, including four 100-yard performances. He still has room for improvement and needs to work on his route-running, but I see him being better than the fast-rising Stephen Hill of Georgia Tech.

2. Coby Fleener, TE, Stanford

Coby Fleener was one of Andrew Luck's most trusted targets at Stanford. He has a great combination of athleticism, playing speed, hands and leaping ability. Beyond that, he comes from a pro-style offense, has great competitiveness and has no character concerns whatsoever. I have the New York Giants grabbing him in the draft—he'd fit in well with Eli Manning. 

1. Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

The only reason Peter Konz may slide into the second round is that there aren't many teams with a priority at center. But Konz is the real deal. He has impressive size and strength, which should translate well in the NFL, and his intelligence on the line and tremendous focus could see him develop quickly. I could see the New England Patriots selecting him at No. 27 overall.

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