2012 NFL Draft Grades: Teams That Drafted Underrated Classes

Since the NFL free-agent market usually lacks depth, the draft provides teams with the best opportunity to fill voids heading into next season. Finding value isn't easy, but those front offices that do strike gold significantly improve their team's chances.

Let's take a look at three franchises that haven't been getting the rightful amount of credit for the draft classes they were able to bring in. While they might not have any marquee names, they should still provide a nice boost.

Houston Texans

The Texans' defense made huge strides toward becoming an elite unit last season. They lost Mario Williams during the offseason, but were able to replace him in the draft with Whitney Mercilus and Jared Crick, who should combine to provide a lot of production.

With the only hole on defense filled, Houston turned its attention to offense. DeVier Posey and Keshawn Martin should provide Andre Johnson with some much-needed help on the outside. All three linemen the Texans drafted were value picks and should provide solid depth.

Since they didn't have many needs, being able to fill them without reaching is an impressive feat and solidifies the Texans as AFC South favorites.

Grade: B+

Denver Broncos

After trading out of the first round to stockpile more picks, the Broncos quietly built a solid class. Even though Derek Wolfe didn't receive a lot of hype during the draft process, he has the versatility to help Denver's defensive line generate more pressure.

Players like Ronnie Hillman and Omar Bolden will provide terrific depth. The biggest story, however, was Brock Osweiler. Drafting a young quarterback that can spend a couple years learning from Peyton Manning provides the Broncos with a safety net and a brighter future.

The offense should be much improved with Manning leading the way, and the draft allowed the Broncos to patch up the defense nicely. They should be in the AFC mix.

Grade: B+

Arizona Cardinals

Drafting Michael Floyd was the perfect move for the Cardinals in Round 1. Larry Fitzgerald has been putting up monster numbers despite defenses focusing solely on him. He should get even better with Floyd stretching the secondary.

Arizona proceeded to select two straight picks with great value in Jamell Fleming and Bobby Massie. It shouldn't take long for either of those guys to make their presence felt. Even seventh-round pick Nate Potter was a savvy selection.

The Cardinals were able to win eight games last season despite myriad weaknesses. With most of those filled, 10 wins isn't out of the question in the NFC West.

Grade: A-