2012 NFL Draft: Top 5 Prospects in Deep Quarterback Class

The buzz surrounding the 2012 NFL Draft will likely be dominated by the deepest quarterback class in recent years.

This year's QB group features three clear-cut first-round picks and a slew of others that could go in the second or third round. Here are the top five prospects in what is potentially the best quarterback crop since 2004.

1. Andrew Luck, Stanford

This is a no-brainer, as Luck has been atop draft boards since the beginning of last season.

The 6-foot-4, 235-pound senior has drawn comparisons to Peyton Manning with his size, accuracy, mechanics and command of his offense.

The kid possesses all the physical tools necessary to be great, but it's unique mental abilities that make him so special. The Cardinal coaching staff has given him permission to call his own plays at the line of scrimmage, something that is very rare at the college level.

Barring some sort of catastrophic injury, Luck will be drafted with the first overall pick.

2. Landry Jones, Oklahoma

Jones is still a junior, so he can return to school if he wants to. However, it might be in his best interest to enter the upcoming draft.

Jones would likely be a top five pick if he leaves the Sooners.

He's been killing it this season, as he is currently second in the nation in touchdown passes (26) and passing yards (3,094).

3. Matt Barkley, USC

Barkley isn't as big or athletic as Luck and Jones, but his confidence and poise are certainly on their level.

He shows brilliant command of his offense and is an excellent decision maker.

Barkley currently has 22 touchdowns and just five interceptions this season.

Look for him to go in the 10 to 15 range, depending on how the draft order comes together.

4. Robert Griffin III, Baylor

Griffin has slowed down a bit since his spectacular start to the season, but he's still impressive.

On the season he has 2,697 combined yards and has accounted for 26 total touchdowns.

Griffin is relatively small (6 feet 2 inches, 220 pounds), but I think he can be very effective at the next level.

He might be able to sneak into the first round, but I think he's an early second rounder right now.

5. Ryan Tannehill, Texas A&M

Tannehill hasn't put up ridiculous numbers like the other four guys on this list, but there's no denying his potential.

The former wide receiver has transitioned beautifully to the quarterback position. In his first full season as starting quarterback, he has completed 65.4 percent of his passes and racked up 22 total touchdowns.

Tannehill is an early to mid-second round pick as of now, but his stock could rise considerably over the next few months.