Predictions, Final Preseason Grades for Each NFL Team's Rookie Class

Monitoring how your favorite team's rookie class is shaping up is always fun. After four weeks of the preseason, everyone has a better understanding about just what to expect from these first-year players.

Now is a perfect time to re-evaluate the class and give each team a new grade.

Things like injuries, poor play and emerging veterans all played roles in some teams receiving negative grades. Those that received good grades typically had surprise rookies show some promising signs during the preseason.

Dallas Cowboys

Picks: Morris Claiborne, Tyrone Crawford, Kyle Wilber, Matt Johnson, Danny Coale, James Hanna and Caleb McSurdy

The top player from the Dallas Cowboys' draft class is obviously Morris Claiborne. His addition immediately improves the Cowboys' ability to stop the pass. It also allows Rob Ryan to dial up more blitz packages. Both Claiborne and Brandon Carr have the ability to play solid man coverage.

Dallas might have gotten a steal in tight end James Hanna. They selected him based on his excellent 40 time, but he's proven to be more than a speed guy. His lack of use at Oklahoma absolutely played a role in his low draft stock. This is why he was available when the Cowboys picked in the sixth round.

With Jason Witten banged up, Hanna could see some playing time with the first unit.

Tyrone Crawford and Kyle Wilber should both get some time on special teams. Both players showed some promise in the preseason. They will be counted on as depth players and as guys with some potential.

I was disappointed by Danny Coale's inability to make the roster. Dallas had hope that he'd compete for the No. 3 wide receiver job.

Class Grade: B-

UPDATE: Claiborne was impressive in the Cowboys' Week 1 win over the Giants, recording four solo tackles and locking down Giants WRs. After the game, DeMarcus Ware commented on how Claiborne and the revamped secondary allowed the pass rush to get to Eli Manning early and often.

New York Giants

Picks: David Wilson, Rueben Randle, Jayron Hosley, Adrien Robinson, Brandon Mosley, Matt McCants and Markus Kuhn

Many expected Rueben Randle to make the biggest impact as a rookie for the New York Giants.

However, it appears that David Wilson is in line to take that role.

Wilson looked explosive and quick during the preseason. He'll get a lot of touches as someone the Giants use to give Ahmad Bradshaw some rest.

Randle wasn't able to do enough to ensure he'll see immediate playing time. Ramses Barden had a much better preseason and appears in line to get more time on the field. This doesn't mean that Randle's future is any less promising. It just means he may need to wait a little until he can make a difference.

Jayron Hosley made several nice plays this preseason. With the durability concerns surrounding Prince Amukamara, Hosley may have an opportunity to see the field early in his career.

Class Grade: B

UPDATE: Wilson and Randle failed to impress in the Giants' Week 1 loss to the Cowboys, as Wilson was benched after fumbling on just his second career carry and Randle was a complete non-factor.

Philadelphia Eagles

Picks: Fletcher Cox, Mychal Kendricks, Vinny Curry, Nick Foles, Brandon Boykin, Dennis Kelly, Marvin McNutt, Brandon Washington and Bryce Brown

Of this group only Mychal Kendricks is slated to open the season as a starter. However, as many as six rookies should make impacts this season for the Philadelphia Eagles.

This group has two surprise standouts from the preseason, Nick Foles and Bryce Brown.

Foles played well enough that he earned the backup quarterback job. With Michael Vick's injury history, there's a good chance Foles sees the field as a rookie.

Brown showed off a combination of quickness and power. It's obvious he has a ton of talent, which is why he was once rated as the top high school prospect in the country.

While Foles and Brown are nice surprises, earlier picks like Kendricks and Fletcher Cox will have the biggest impacts. The addition of Kendricks helps the Eagles improve the linebacker position, which was a real area of concern last season.

Class Grade: A

Washington Redskins

Picks: Robert Griffin III, Josh LeRibeus, Kirk Cousins, Keenan Robinson, Adam Gettis, Alfred Morris, Tom Compton, Richard Crawford and Jordan Bernstine

The Washington Redskins made an aggressive move to find their quarterback of the future in Robert Griffin III. This is a team that lacked direction at the position, so making this move brought some stability to the franchise. Everyone is optimistic that Griffin III will have a fantastic career.

Outside of Griffin III, Washington got great value with Kirk Cousins and Alfred Morris. Bringing Cousins into the mix is more about adding an asset than finding someone that can contribute immediately. Look for Washington to entertain trade offers for Cousins in the offseason.

Morris is the really intriguing player in this draft class.

His tremendous preseason seems to have put him at the top of the depth chart. Mike Shanahan keeps a steady rotation in the backfield, but Morris has done enough to earn significant playing time.

Class Grade: B+

Buffalo Bills

Picks: Stephon Gilmore, Cordy Glenn, T.J. Graham, Nigel Bradham, Ron Brooks, Zebrie Sanders, Tank Carder, Mark Asper and John Potter

The Buffalo Bills added two top-end starters in April's draft. Stephon Gilmore and Cordy Glenn have the potential to be among the best in the NFL at their positions. That's good news for the Bills, as they play two very important positions in cornerback and left tackle.

Gilmore's addition went with the major theme of Buffalo's offseason. The Bills made major improvements on the defensive side of the ball that included bringing in Mario Williams and Mark Anderson.

These moves have made the Bills a balanced team and put them in the running for a playoff spot.

There's a chance that T.J. Graham could also make a major impact this season. The Bills still need stability at the No. 2 receiver spot, and they could give Graham a shot if Donald Jones and David Nelson don't pan out.

Class Grade: B-

Miami Dolphins

Picks: Ryan Tannehill, Jonathan Martin, Olivier Vernon, Michael Egnew, Lamar Miller, Josh Kaddu, B.J. Cunningham, Kheeston Randall and Rishard Matthews

I was really shocked when the Miami Dolphins announced that Ryan Tannehill would be their starting quarterback. There's no doubt that he's the most talented quarterback on the roster, but it's a stretch to suggest he is mentally ready.

Despite all his physically skills, the fact is that Tannehill doesn't have a ton of experience at the position. That lack of experience played a role in his struggles making sound decisions in college. There will be plenty of bumps in the road this season.

I was a little shocked at the up-and-down preseason by Jonathan Martin. He has the physical tools and sound technique to be a top-flight offensive tackle.

Look for him to make improvements as he becomes more comfortable in the system.

Class Grade: C+

New England Patriots

Picks: Chandler Jones, Dont'a Hightower, Tavon Wilson, Jake Bequette, Nate Ebner, Alfonzo Dennard and Jeremy Ebert

The New England Patriots' draft class consists of two players that will make immediate impacts.

Chandler Jones is the most important player the Patriots added through the draft. He's being counted on to be the team's top pass-rusher.

Through the early part of the season, Jones has shown good quickness off the line. He combines his speed with great effort. There's a strong possibility that Jones will be able to meet expectations by reaching the double-digit sack mark.

Dont'a Hightower is expected to make a similar impact.

He's slated to open the season as the starter at the strong-side linebacker spot. Hightower is a stoutly built player who does a good job supporting the run. However, he also has the ability to rush the passer. Look for the Patriots to use him in blitz packages and possibly at defensive end.

Class Grade: B-

New York Jets

Picks: Quinton Coples, Stephen Hill, Demario Davis, Josh Bush, Terrance Ganaway, Robert T. Griffin, Antonio Allen and Jordan White

Quinton Coples might have been the most impressive player for the New York Jets this preseason. He showed that he has the talent to be a premier pass-rusher. His use of both a speed and power rush will make it difficult for offensive linemen to keep him out of the backfield.

The Jets offense needs Stephen Hill to make a contribution this season. Of the receivers on this roster, Hill has the most raw talent. However, he also enters the league with very limited experience. How the Jets use Hill will be a key to how successful he is as a rookie.

Demario Davis looks like the only other draftee that could have an impact. His quickness and tenacity should help him become a playmaker on special teams.

This draft is very top heavy, which contributed to the Jets' lower grade.

Class Grade: C+

Arizona Cardinals

Pick: Michael Floyd, Jamell Fleming, Bobby Massie, Senio Kelemete, Justin Bethel, Ryan Lindley and Nate Potter

The preseason was a complete disaster for the Arizona Cardinals, and their rookie class didn't help temper that feeling.

Michael Floyd's inconsistent play prevented him from beating out Andre Roberts for a starting spot.

Probably more concerning are the reports about Floyd's lack of work ethic. Players that have questionable work ethic typically don't perform well when their teams are struggling. Without Floyd making a major contribution, Arizona's draft looks unspectacular.

Bobby Massie is the one guy that can help increase the overall value of the class. He's expected to open the season as the starter at right tackle. Massie is a bit raw but has the upside to eventually shift over to left tackle. Arizona's issues along the offensive line mean Massie will play an important role as a rookie.

Class Grade: D+

San Francisco 49ers

Picks: A.J. Jenkins, LaMichael James, Joe Looney, Darius Fleming, Trent Robinson, Jason Slowey and Cam Johnson

So far the San Francisco 49ers' entire rookie class looks a bit underwhelming.

A.J. Jenkins had a rough start to his career, which included issues with effort and conditioning. He's currently buried on the depth chart behind Michael Crabtree, Mario Manningham, Randy Moss and Kyle Williams. It's unlikely that he sees much playing time this season.

LaMichael James also has a lot of ground to make up if he wants to make an impact as a rookie. He was outperformed by Kendall Hunter during the preseason. Hunter has a skill set similar to that of James, so it'll be tough for James to take carries away from Hunter.

This group just doesn't offer much upside, either.

James is undersized and is unlikely to fill anything other than a specialized role. Jenkins has a lot of work to do if he wants even to see the field.

Class Grade: D+

Seattle Seahawks

Picks: Bruce Irvin, Bobby Wagner, Russell Wilson, Robert Turbin, Jaye Howard, Korey Toomer, Jeremy Lane, Winston Guy, J.R. Sweezy and Greg Scruggs

The Seattle Seahawks' first four picks will all see a ton of playing time as rookies.

Russell Wilson has been one of the biggest surprises in the entire league. His ability to come out of nowhere and win the starting job was extremely impressive.

Wilson's emergence gives the Seahawks some direction at the all-important quarterback position.

However, he isn't the only rookie who will play a major role this season. Bobby Wagner is the team's starting middle linebacker. He has shown a ton of ability and poise so far this preseason. Bruce Irvin flashed his explosiveness and will be counted on to help increase the Seahawks' sack total.

With Marshawn Lynch possibly facing a suspension, Robert Turbin could see a ton of carries early in the season. He's a well-rounded runner who possesses good speed and strength.

Don't be surprised if he earns a share of the carries by the end of the year.

A sleeper is Winston Guy, who has really turned heads in Seattle. Physically he might be as talented as anyone on the roster. The Seahawks just need to find a way to properly use him.

Class Grade: A+

St. Louis Rams

Picks: Michael Brockers, Brian Quick, Janoris Jenkins, Isaiah Pead, Trumaine Johnson, Chris Givens, Rokevious Watkins, Greg Zuerlein, Aaron Brown and Daryl Richardson

The St. Louis Rams managed to land four starters and eight total players that will contribute as rookies.

Michael Brockers, Janoris Jenkins, Rokevious Watkins and Greg Zuerlein all played well enough this preseason to earn starting jobs.

Watkins' play has been the biggest surprise of the group.

Coming out of college, Watkins had the size and strength to play in the NFL. However, he lacked the explosiveness and bend to warrant a high draft grade. His ability to improve in those areas is what helped him win a starting role.

St. Louis is counting on Brockers to help shore up a run defense that allowed over 150 yard per game last season. His strong anchor and strength should allow him to hold at the point of attack. He also has some quickness off the ball that helps him penetrate the pocket.

Janoris Jenkins dropped in the draft because of some character concerns, but that doesn't mean he lacks talent. This is a player with the ability to develop into one of the top cornerbacks in the league.

Don't sleep on Trumaine Johnson, either. He's someone with good size who may eventually earn one of the starting safety jobs.

The wide receiver corps gets a boost from the additions of Brian Quick and Chris Givens. Both players will be worked into the rotation, with the possibility that both are starters by the end of the season.

St. Louis has really set itself up for the future with this draft.

Class Grade: A+

Denver Broncos

Picks: Derek Wolfe, Brock Osweiler, Ronnie Hillman, Omar Bolden, Philip Blake, Malik Jackson and Danny Trevathan

Derek Wolfe and Malik Jackson are the two players out of this draft class who will have immediate impacts. Both finished the preseason on high notes and will see heavy snaps as part of the defensive line rotation. The Denver Broncos needed depth on the defensive line, and these two look like they might bring more than that to the table.

Ronnie Hillman's issues with injury this preseason have been a major disappointment. After the problems with Knowshon Moreno, the last thing the Broncos need is another running back with durability concerns.

However, Hillman looked impressive in what action he did see during the preseason.

He's the perfect complement to Willis McGahee and should earn more playing time as the season progresses.

Class Grade: C+

Kansas City Chiefs

Picks: Dontari Poe, Jeff Allen, Donald Stephenson, Devon Wylie, DeQuan Menzie, Cyrus Gray, Jerome Long and Junior Hemingway

The Kansas City Chiefs don't expect to get early contributions from their rookie class. There isn't a single rookie that earned a starting job or even major playing time with the first unit.

The Chiefs knew when they selected Dontari Poe that he'd need time to develop.

From what Poe showed this preseason, he'll need more time to improve his technique and feel for the game. Too often he was blown off the ball and dominated by more experienced offensive linemen.

What the Chiefs did get from this draft is tremendous depth, especially along the offensive line. Both Jeff Allen and Donald Stephenson earned backup roles but showed they have the potential to take over should injuries occur.

With the injuries that inevitably occur throughout the season, it's important to have good depth.

Class Grade: C+

Oakland Raiders

Picks: Tony Bergstrom, Miles Burris, Jack Crawford, Juron Criner, Christo Bilukidi and Nathan Stupar

The Oakland Raiders knew that this rookie class wasn't going to produce a high number of impact players. It's hard to find difference-makers when your first pick doesn't come until the third round.

However, Miles Burris has been one of the bright spots.

His strong play allowed the Raiders to cut ties with the oft-injured Aaron Curry. Burris will open the season as the starter at the weak-side linebacker spot.

The other players added by the Raiders offer good depth but not much else.

A lot was made of undrafted rookie Rod Streater's preseason play. However, things will be different when he's forced to play against an opponent's first-team defense for an entire game.

Class Grade: D-

San Diego Chargers

Picks: Melvin Ingram, Kendall Reyes, Brandon Taylor, Ladarius Green, Johnnie Troutman, David Molk and Edwin Baker

The San Diego Chargers landed two standout defensive players with their first two picks in the 2012 draft. Both Melvin Ingram and Kendall Reyes will receive a significant amount of playing time as rookies.

Ingram looks like a player that could easily reach the double-digit sack mark.

Reyes is the type of versatile defender that is a perfect fit at the 5-technique spot. During the preseason, he did a great job holding at the point of attack and getting some pressure on the quarterback. He's still a little raw, which only means his best football is still ahead.

David Molk is another important piece of the puzzle, as Nick Hardwick has talked about retirement for a few seasons now. Adding Molk gives the Chargers someone they can groom to take over once Hardwick decides to call it quits.

It's also highly possible that Brandon Taylor earns a starting job by the end of the season. He showed a lot of promise at the strong-safety position.

Class Grade: B+

Chicago Bears

Picks: Shea McClellin, Alshon Jeffery, Brandon Hardin, Evan Rodriguez, Isaiah Frey and Greg McCoy

Only three of the Chicago Bears' 2012 draft picks will be on the active roster this season. However, Shea McClellin, Alshon Jeffery and Evan Rodriguez won't only be on the active roster; they'll also be making early impacts.

Of the group, Jeffery has been the most impressive.

Each week, Jeffery has improved and earned more time with the No. 1 offense. His size, leaping ability and strong hands make him a reliable target. Look for the Bears to feature him in the red zone and on plays deep down the field.

McClellin flashed a lot of potential as a pass-rusher during the preseason. However, he just isn't strong enough to consistently hold up against the run. This is why the Bears plan to use him on obvious passing downs.

Chicago's grade might appear a little high, but that's because there's a realistic chance Jeffery ends up in the running to be the rookie of the year.

Class Grade: C+

Detroit Lions

Picks: Riley Reiff, Ryan Broyles, Dwight Bentley, Ronnell Lewis, Tahir Whitehead, Chris Greenwood, Jonte Green and Travis Lewis

Chris Greenwood was the only player from the Detroit Lions' 2012 draft class not to make the roster.

However, only Dwight Bentley will open the season with a starting job.

Bentley will play a major role in the Lions secondary. This unit has a ton of issues, and things would be a lot worse if Bentley hadn't had a solid preseason.

It won't take long for first-round pick Riley Reiff to crack the starting lineup. He saw time at both guard and tackle this preseason. He is ready to step in should a current starter struggle.

Ronnell Lewis, Tahir Whitehead and Travis Lewis all figure to see significant playing time on special teams. However, they each also provide good depth at their positions.

The issue with this draft class is the lack of players ready to make immediate impacts. Bentley has talent, but it's a lot to ask him to cover the league's top receivers. Expect opposing offensive coordinators to test him early and often.

Class Grade: C+

Green Bay Packers

Picks: Nick Perry, Jerel Worthy, Casey Hayward, Mike Daniels, Jerron McMillian, Terrell Manning, Andrew Datko and B.J. Coleman

Nick Perry has the most pressure to perform of anybody in the Green Bay Packers' draft class. He's being asked to help Clay Matthews generate pressure on the quarterback. Most importantly, he must take advantage of the favorable matchups presented by Matthews' presence on the field.

The hope is that Perry can force the Packers' opponents to shift some blockers away from Matthews' side of the field. This defense depends on Matthews making game-changing plays, which is much more difficult when facing constant double-teams.

Perry only recorded one sack this preseason; he'll need more consistent production to meet expectations.

Jerel Worthy and Casey Hayward both earned playing time with their performances this preseason.

Hayward has more upside than Jarrett Bush and Sam Shields, who both sit in front of him on the depth chart. Look for Hayward to earn a starting job by the end of the season. At the very least he'll be the top option in nickel situations.

Class Grade: B-

Minnesota Vikings

Picks: Matt Kalil, Harrison Smith, Josh Robinson, Jarius Wright, Rhett Ellison, Greg Childs, Robert Blanton, Blair Walsh, Audie Cole and Trevor Guyton

The Minnesota Vikings are counting on this draft class to help expedite the rebuilding process.

Matt Kalil is the key, as he's expected to provide Christian Ponder with time to locate open targets. With the obvious relationship between quarterback play and a team's success, it's important that Ponder has all the tools needed to succeed.

Last season, Minnesota's secondary allowed over 250 passing yards per game. Harrison Smith was added to help shore up the back end of the defense. His ability to quickly identify his keys helps him get in position to succeed. Smith is also a strong leader who does a good job communicating with his teammates.

Audie Cole was all over the field this preseason. His strong play helped him earn a spot on the roster. Expect to see him used in the linebacker rotation and on special teams.

Class Grade: B-

Baltimore Ravens

Picks: Courtney Upshaw, Kelechi Osemele, Bernard Pierce, Gino Gradkowski, Christian Thompson, Asa Jackson, Tommy Streeter and Deangelo Tyson

The majority of the Balitmore Ravens' 2012 draft class failed to meet expectations in the preseason.

Courtney Upshaw was by far the biggest disappointment. His inability to beat out Albert McClellan for a starting job was a major surprise. With the departure of Jarret Johnson and injury to Terrell Suggs, the Ravens were counting on Upshaw to show he can be a productive rookie.

Bernard Pierce is Ray Rice's backup, but only because nobody else stood out. Pierce was anything but impressive this preseason.

The Ravens will be in real trouble if Rice misses any time.

The one player that showed some promise is Kelechi Osemele. In fact, his play at right tackle is part of the reason why the Ravens played hardball with Bryant McKinnie. Baltimore was ready to part ways with McKinnie if he didn't restructure his contract.

Class Grade: C-

Cincinnati Bengals

Pick: Dre Kirkpatrick, Kevin Zeitler, Devon Still, Mohamed Sanu, Brandon Thompson, Orson Charles, Shaun Prater, Marvin Jones, George Iloka and Dan Herron

The Cincinnati Bengals' 2012 draft class is more about building toward the future than making an immediate impact.

Only Kevin Zeitler is likely to open the season with a starting job. He was the one pick that filled a major need. His presence on the offensive line should help improve Cincinnati's rushing attack.

An injury to Dre Kirkpatrick is what hurt his chances of earning playing time early in the season. The Bengals' veteran depth at the position now makes it an uphill battle for Kirkpatrick to see the field. This is someone Cincinnati will ease into the lineup.

I love what the Bengals were able to add to their defensive front. Both Devin Still and Brandon Thompson add depth as rotational players. A defensive line is typically more successful when it has good depth, which is what both of these players provide.

This is a group that will have a greater impact next season and beyond.

Class Grade: A-

Cleveland Browns

Picks: Trent Richardson, Brandon Weeden, Mitchell Schwartz, Josh Gordon, John Hughes, Travis Benjamin, James-Michael Johnson, Ryan Miller, Emmanuel Acho, Billy Winn, Tevin Wade and Brad Smelley

As many as five rookies are expected to begin this season as starters for the Cleveland Browns.Trent Richardson, Brandon Weeden, Mitchell Schwartz, John Hughes and James-Michael Johnson are those ticketed for starting jobs.

Others, like Josh Gordon and Travis Benjamin, will see significant playing time.

Obviously Richardson and Weeden are the keys to this draft class. Last season, the Browns averaged less than 14 points a game. They are counting on these two to help increase the overall production of the offense.

Weeden will have his growing pains as a rookie, but he showed some promise in the preseason. Richardson needs to show that his knee injury isn't a potential long-term problem. The uncertainty of these two players hurts the overall grade of this draft.

However, this class has a lot of NFL-caliber talent. Because of this draft, the Browns now have good depth and upside at several positions.

Class Grade: B-

Pittsburgh Steelers

Pick: David DeCastro, Mike Adams, Sean Spence, Alameda Ta'amu, Chris Rainey, Toney Clemons, David Paulson, Terrence Frederick and Kelvin Beachum

On paper, the Pittsburgh Steelers' draft looks like an overwhelming success. However, this group has not panned out like the Steelers would've hoped. David DeCastro and Sean Spence damaged their knees and are likely to miss the entire season.

Mike Adams struggled so much in pass protection that Pittsburgh quickly demoted him to second team. Alameda Ta'amu was outperformed by Steve McLendon. Ed Bouchette of the Pittsburgh Post-Gazette had this to say about the Ta'amu-McLendon battle:

"

There was talk the Steelers might draft a nose tackle in the first round in April as Hampton's heir apparent, and, after they waited until the fourth round to take Alameda Ta'amu, he was labeled by many as the successor to the 12-year vet with the five Pro Bowls. McLendon likely is the reason they waited so long, and Ta'amu now looks more like Chris Hoke's heir apparent as the future backup

"

The lone bright spot is fifth-round pick Chris Rainey. His explosiveness and versatility are things that offensive coordinator Todd Haley will be sure to utilize.

So, with the injuries and poor performances, this draft class has a chance to be a major disappointment. The Steelers need Adams to live up to his potential, DeCastro to return to full health and Spence to recapture his quickness if this class is going to make a major impact.

Class Grade: D+

Atlanta Falcons

Pick: Peter Konz, Lamar Holmes, Bradie Ewing, Jonathan Massaquoi, Charles Mitchell and Travian Robertson

None of the players the Atlanta Falcons selected in the 2012 draft will open the season as starters.

Peter Konz had the best opportunity but was outplayed by Garrett Reynolds. The Falcons won't give Reynolds a long leash, so it's possible Konz takes over at right guard in the near future.

The other players Atlanta added haven't shown a ton of upside this preseason.

Jonathan Massaquoi has some potential but was outperformed by players like Lawrence Sidbury and Kroy Bierman. Sidbury is someone that the Falcons are high on, and he will likely keep Massaquoi off the field.

Overall, this class offers little upside and immediate help. Konz is the only player close to being able to make an impact this season.

Class Grade: D-

Carolina Panthers

Pick: Luke Kuechly, Amini Silatolu, Frank Alexander, Joe Adams, Josh Norman, Brad Nortman and D.J. Campbell

The Carolina Panthers added two key pieces to the defensive side of the ball this past April.

Luke Kuechly is the prize of this draft class. His high football IQ, good athleticism and non-stop motor make him instantly ready to make an impact. He's a player that will constantly be around the football and register a high number of tackles.

Josh Norman is the other player that figures to see significant playing time. His strong play this preseason earned him the nickel role in the defensive backfield. The fact that the NFL continues to move toward being a pass-heavy league means Norman can expect to spend a lot of time on the field.

Another key part of this draft class is guard Amini Silatolu. He showed enough throughout training camp for the Panthers to name him the starting left guard. Silatolu has all the physcial tools needed to excel, but he's a bit raw. There will be some ups and downs in his performance. This is player that needs time to perfect his craft.

This class has a chance to be special because of Kuechly and Silatolu. Both players have the potential to be among the best at their positions.

Class Grade: B

New Orleans Saints

Picks: Akiem Hicks, Nick Toon, Corey White, Andrew Tiller and Marcel Jones

The New Orleans Saints won't get much production out of their 2012 draft class. Akiem Hicks is the most talented of the group but is very raw. Most of his playing experience has come in Canada, where he didn't play against top-level competition.

New Orleans suffered a letdown when Nick Toon suffered a foot injury that now requires surgery. He was placed on the IR and won't play this season.

Marcel Jones and Corey White made the roster. However, neither will be counted on to contribute as rookies.

Class Grade: D-

Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Picks: Mark Barron, Doug Martin, Lavonte David, Najee Goode, Keith Tandy, Michael Smith and Drake Dunsmore

The Tampa Bay Buccaneers landed three future stars in Mark Barron, Doug Martin and Lavonte David. All three are set to begin the season as starters and make major impacts.

Look for Martin to make most of the headlines, as he's expected to get the bulk of the carries at running back.

Mark Barron's physicality, high football IQ and athleticism will allow him to make plays all over the field. Tampa Bay is expected to let him spend a lot of time in the box, where he can support the run. However, Barron also has the range to provide solid coverage in the back end of the defense.

I had Lavonte David graded as a fringe first-round prospect with a ton of upside. He's a bit undersized but has the quickness and tenacity to overcome that issue. This is a linebacker that can cover a ton of ground and make plays from sideline to sideline.

These three prospects have a chance to collectively make a larger impact than any other team's draft class.

Class Grade: A

Houston Texans

Picks: Whitney Mercilus, DeVier Posey, Brandon Brooks, Ben Jones, Keshawn Martin, Jared Crick, Randy Bullock and Nick Mondek

The Houston Texans made several picks to help them immediately, others aimed at building toward the future and some just to provide depth.

Whitney Mercilus and Keshawn Martin are the ones that will have immediate impacts.

Martin was a bit of a surprise because he came several rounds after the Texans selected DeVier Posey. The difference was that Posey wasn't able to make an impression during the preseason, while Martin shined. He's being asked to fill the slot role vacated by Jacoby Jones.

Mercilus will rotate with Connor Barwin and Brooks Reed to form a group aiming to generate a ferocious pass rush.

Ben Jones and Brandon Brooks are the two the Texans are counting on to contribute in the coming seasons. They are both interior offensive lineman who need some work to be ready to take the field.

However, they both have a lot of upside.

Class Grade: B+

Indianapolis Colts

Picks: Andrew Luck, Coby Fleener, Dwayne Allen, T.Y. Hilton, Josh Chapman, Vick Ballard, LaVon Brazill, Justin Anderson, Tim Fugger and Chandler Harnish

The Indianapolis Colts added a lot of offensive firepower this past April.

Obviously, Andrew Luck is the most important piece added to the puzzle. He is being asked to replace a legend, while also being forced to deal with extremely high expectations.

So far, he's done nothing to disappoint.

His play this preseason has some saying that this Colts team might reach the seven-win mark. If Indy is able to accomplish that, it will be because of Luck.

Luck is accompanied by Coby Fleener, Dwayne Allen, T.Y. Hilton, Vick Ballard and LaVon Brazill on the offensive side of the ball. Fleener and Allen are slated to open the season as starters at the tight end position. Each will get a ton of playing time, as the Colts plan on using a lot of dual-tight end sets.

Don't sleep on the defensive additions, either. Josh Chapman has a bright future as a nose tackle in the Colts' new 3-4 attack.

Class Grade: A+

Jacksonville Jaguars

Picks: Justin Blackmon, Andre Branch, Bryan Anger, Brandon Marshall, Mike Harris and Jeris Pendleton

Heading into the draft, there was a mixed bag of impressions surrounding Justin Blackmon. He didn't help himself any by getting arrested for a DUI before training camp.

However, once he took the field for the Jacksonville Jaguars, it was obvious he will make a major impact as a rookie.

His physical style of play fits what the Jaguars want to do on the offensive side of the ball. He will be a target for Blaine Gabbert in the underneath passing game and pick up yards after the catch.

Andre Branch is another rookie that will open the season as a starter. He's going to work the defensive end spot opposite Jeremy Mincey. Branch has good quickness off the ball and should help the Jaguars generate a better pass rush.

Keep an eye on Bryan Anger. He's a strong-legged punter that can quickly develop into one of the better punters in the league.

Class Grade: B-

Tennessee Titans

Pick: Kendall Wright, Zach Brown, Mike Martin, Coty Sensabaugh, Taylor Thompson, Markelle Martin and Scott Solomon

The Tennessee Titans' 2012 draft class has a collection of solid players but not much upside other than Kendall Wright. Players like Zach Brown, Mike Martin and Coty Sensabaugh could all develop into starters.

However, nobody out of that group looks capable of becoming a star.

Kendall Wright, on the other hand, showed in the preseason that he has a ton of upside. He made several explosive plays, showed the ability to generate separation and remained focused on the football. With Kenny Britt's future in question, Wright looks like the future at the wide receiver position for the Titans. 

A sleeper to keep an eye on is Taylor Thompson. He's playing tight end in Tennessee after playing defensive line in college. Thompson isn't expected to make much of an impact this season, but he could be a difference-maker down the road.

Class Grade: C+