2012 NFL Draft Order: Predicting Likeliest First-Round Trends

In the NFL draft, it happens every year. 

There are always runs on specific positions at select points in the first round—and tonight's opening round will be no different.

Let's take a look at when they'll happen, and what positions will be involved.

When the Cincinnati Bengals go on the clock at No. 17 overall, they could be looking to add a cornerback to provide depth in their secondary, as stud corner Leon Hall returns from a devastating Achilles tendon injury.

While it's unlikely that Stephon Gilmore, the rangy defensive back from South Carolina, would be available, Alabama's Dre Kirkpatrick is a likely option. Despite his off-field red flags, Janoris Jenkins is a supremely skilled man-to-man corner who could garner attention, too.  

Meanwhile, the Chicago Bears at No. 18, San Diego Chargers at No. 19 and Tennessee Titans at No. 20 could also be seriously looking to add a quality cornerback. 

A surprise pick like Oklahoma's Jamell Fleming could pop up here. 

If the run doesn't happen, at the very least, we could see some movement via trade from any one of those clubs. 

After that, two offensive tackles could be plucked at No. 23 by the Detroit Lions and at No. 24 by the Pittsburgh Steelers. 

Georgia's Cordy Glenn, Stanford's Jonathan Martin, Iowa's Riley Reiff and even Ohio State's Mike Adams are viable options. 

Finally, we could see a major run on edge rushers at picks No. 27, (New England Patriots) 28 (Green Bay Packers) and 29 (Baltimore Ravens).

Each team would love to acquire a premier defensive end or outside linebacker. 

Guys like Clemson's Andre Branch, Illinois' Whitney Mercilus, Marshall's Vinny Curry, West Virginia's Bruce Irvin and Boise State's Shea McClellin are distinct possibilities. 

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