2012 NFL Mock Draft: 5 Defensive Players Who'll Destroy Opponents at Next Level

I know it's only October, but it's never too early to talk about the NFL draft.

We're in the middle of a fascinating college football season, and there are plenty of top-notch defenders putting their skills on display.

From lightning-quick defensive backs to terrifying defensive linemen, here are five guys who will be absolute beasts in the NFL.

Dre Kirkpatrick

The top defensive back eligible for this year's draft is Dre Kirkpatrick, the 6'3", 192-pound cornerback from Alabama.

Kirkpatrick has yet to intercept a pass this season, but that's mainly because not many QBs are dumb enough to throw his way.

The kid is going to be great in the pros. Look for him to be drafted in the Top 10.

Quinton Coples

First of all, that photo is hilarious.

Second, Quinton Coples seems like a very nice guy, but on the field he's about as scary as they come. Just watch him crush Tyler Bray

The 6'6", 285-pound defensive end is the best North Carolina defender since Julius Peppers, and is the top defensive prospect in the Class of 2012.

Coples is the anchor of UNC's defense, which is currently ranked 19th in the nation in points allowed (18.5).

Look for Coples to go in the Top Five.

Donte Moss

It's only fitting that Donte Moss, Coples' fellow UNC ruckus-bringer, follows him on this list.

Moss is slightly smaller than Coples (6'4", 260 pounds), but he's also much faster; that 4.67 40 time is just frightening.

Moss' stock is falling a little bit, as he has yet to register more than three tackles in a game this season.

However, I have no doubt in his professional potential. Playing alongside Coples certainly helps, but Moss is a very talented individual.

He should be drafted between 15th and 20th in the 2012 draft.

Brandon Thompson

Clemson has been destroying teams this season, and their big defensive tackle is at the center of their success.

Thompson (6'2", 310 pounds) has 22 tackles on the season, helping the nation's 23rd-best defense get out to a 6-0 start.

You also have to love his confidence (sorry, the video looks like the Blair Witch Project).

Thompson should go in the Top 15.

Everyone on LSU's Defense

LSU's defense is downright frightening, and everyone on their team will probably be a good pro.

The Tigers have crushed elite opponents all season and I doubt they'll lose a game this season. They've allowed just 12.5 points per game this season, which is ridiculous.

Cornerback Morris Claiborne will be an All-Pro player within five years. The fiery Tyrann Mathieu is only a sophomore, but he's going to kill it once he's in the league too.

LSU's defense is the best in the nation, and I expect basically everyone to make an impact in the NFL.