NFL Draft Predictions: Late-Round Picks Who Will Make an Immediate Impact

While it's the first-round picks who make fans salivate, players selected in the later rounds often have better careers than their spotlight-hogging, fat-check-cashing counterparts.

Right now, the league is full of big names who were selected in the later rounds.

Former sixth-round pick Tom Brady? I guess he's pretty good.

How about Buffalo's Ryan Fitzpatrick and Stevie Johnson? Both of them were seventh-round picks back in the day, and their careers are going just fine.

But while those three players rode the pine for a little while before getting their shot, not every late-rounder has to wait his turn. Look for the following players to capitalize on early opportunities with their new teams.

Joe Adams, WR (Carolina Panthers)

I absolutely love this pick for Carolina.

Adams has had some injury troubles in the past, but at this point in the draft, the potential rewards far outweigh his risks.

Adams is a lethal slot receiver, using his speed, separation skills and generally craftiness to create big plays. He's also dangerous in the return game, which is currently an area of question for Carolina.

Look for Adams to mesh well with Cam Newton, providing the young phenom with yet another weapon.

Ladarius Green, TE (San Diego Chargers)

Antonio Gates isn't getting any younger, and his durability is a question mark after missing nine games in the last two seasons.

That's why I like the selection of Green in the fourth round. He's a tall (6'6"), quick tight end with a skill set that's similar to Gates'.

Green has great body control and ball skills, which should make him a menace in the red zone. He certainly won't be an every-down type of player right away, but he will give Philip Rivers another valuable asset.

Bobby Massie, OT (Arizona Cardinals)

The Cardinals may have gotten the steal of the draft by selecting Massie with the 112th pick.

Their offensive line situation has been terrible recently, as the Cards gave up 54 sacks last season. They should be thrilled that they can upgrade the position this late in the draft.

Massie is solid in both run and pass-blocking, using his long arms and strong frame to perfection. He should be the Cardinals' starting right tackle from Day 1.