2012 NFL Mock Draft: Landing Spots for Top Playmakers in the Draft Class

College football is headed into bowl season, and that means NFL prospects have but one more game to impress NFL scouts before the combine.

We've already seen plenty of players rise and fall on draft boards, with some, like Baylor's Robert Griffin III, soaring in the eyes of many draft experts.

We've also seen such players as North Carolina defense end Quinton Coples plummet down most boards, mainly because of other prospects distinguishing themselves as up-and-comers this season.

It's always an exciting time before the draft starts, with numerous ideas as to who will go where.

Here is my latest take on how the 2012 NFL draft will shake out.

Comments and questions encouraged!

1. Indianapolis Colts: Andrew Luck, QB, Stanford

Tools: Andrew Luck has dropped in production this season, but he also hasn't had much help. The fact of the matter is he has elite arm strength, accuracy and, most importantly, decision-making. There's basically nothing he can't do, and he even can run a little bit.

Why He Goes Here: The Colts are headed for the worst record in the league, and it would be a surprise if they didn't land the No. 1 overall pick. They have multiple areas to address, including quarterback, and it shows.

Why He Fits With Indianapolis: Are you kidding me? There should be no explanation needed. Peyton Manning appears to be on his last legs and Luck has actually been compared to Manning coming out of Tennessee. Nothing like replacing a future Hall of Famer with one of the best quarterback prospects in years.

2. St. Louis Rams: Alshon Jeffery, WR, South Carolina

Tools: Alshon Jeffery's production has dropped this season, but that has mainly been due to spotty quarterback play at South Carolina. There is no question he is an elite prospect based on his abilities. He's strong, incredibly focused and he distances himself from Oklahoma State's Justin Blackmon because of his ability to separate himself from the secondary down the field.

Why He Goes Here: The Rams are currently 2-10 and will probably lose their remaining four games, including against the 5-7 Seattle Seahawks.

Why He Fits With St. Louis: You can't blame quarterback Sam Bradford for the Rams' inadequacies this season. For the second straight year, he had virtually no help at receiver. Plus, the offensive line simply fell apart, ceding a league-high 43 sacks through Week 13. He needs weapons, and Jeffery could be a superstar.

3. Minnesota Vikings: Matt Kalil, OT, USC

Tools: Matt Kalil has established himself as the top offensive lineman in the country after his third season at USC. He's strong, athletic, intelligent and has a build projects him as a longtime NFL tackle. On top of that, he can play both right and left tackle.

Why He Goes Here: The Vikings, currently at 2-10, showed some spunk against the Denver Broncos in Week 13. I expect them to go 1-3 the rest of the way, beating the Washington Redskins.

Why He Fits With Minnesota: I like what I've seen from developing rookie quarterback Christian Ponder and the Vikings have one Adrian Peterson in the backfield. Now they need a left tackle to bolster the O-line. Kalil would be a godsend.

4. Jacksonville Jaguars: Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State

Tools: Justin Blackmon won't blow you away with his speed, but when it comes to strength and beating press coverage, he's an elite prospect. He projects as a possession receiver any team would love to have and he also has the ability to rack up yards after the catch on slants.

Why He Goes Here: The Jaguars have simply looked awful lately and they're 3-9. They are destined for the top of the draft order.

Why He Fits With Jacksonville: If I was drafting, I would draft Robert Griffin III here. But I'm not the Jaguars, and I'm pretty sure they will at least give rookie quarterback Blaine Gabbert one more season to prove himself. He doesn't hardly have any weapons and a star like Blackmon who could rack up easy catches 15 yards and in would be ideal to help Gabbert out.

5. Cleveland Browns: Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama

Tools: Trent Richardson has had an amazing season for Alabama. He has a rare combination of speed strength, patience and vision, and he can absolutely juke defenders out of their shoes. He's by far a better prospect than former teammate Mark Ingram was and there's really nothing not to like here.

Why He Goes Here: I expect the 4-8 Browns to go 0-4 the rest of the way. Their offense is simply horrid and the team they have a chance of beating, the Arizona Cardinals, played better in Week 13.

Why He Fits With Cleveland: Peyton Hillis is M.I.A. and nobody in the Browns' backfield has proven to be a legitimate replacement. Richardson is a superstar in the making and he could bolster the Browns' offense similar to how Adrian Peterson has with the Vikings.

6. Washington Redskins: Robert Griffin III, QB, Baylor

Tools: Robert Griffin III can wreak havoc with his legs, but he's actually more dangerous in the pocket, throwing for nearly 4,000 yards with 36 touchdowns to six interceptions this season. He has the arm strength, decision-making and accuracy to excel in the NFL, and his poise in the pocket is uncanny.

Why He Goes Here: The Redskins have a solid developing defense, but they aren't going anywhere with Rex Grossman and John Beck. Griffin is a better prospect than USC's Matt Barkley in my opinion.

Why He Fits With Washington: Rex Grossman. John Beck. Need I say anymore? The Redskins haven't had a good QB in a while now and Griffin projects as a franchise player. Combined with the emerging Roy Helu, the Redskins' win total could jump next season.

7. Carolina Panthers: Morris Claiborne, CB, LSU

Tools: Morris Claiborne is one of the reasons LSU is No. 1 in the nation this season. He's a true lockdown cornerback, with the speed to turn and run, strength not to get pushed around and height (6'1") to match up with the taller receivers in the NFL.

Why He Goes Here: The Panthers made the right choice in Cam Newton last year, but the defense needs to come around before they think of being a winning team. Until then, they are destined to pick in the top 10.

Why He Fits With Carolina: Opposite cornerback Chris Gamble, Claiborne would give the Panthers a one-two punch in the secondary to build a defense around. We know the Panthers can put up points; a solid defense would vault them up the standings.

8. Miami Dolphins: Matt Barkley, QB, USC

Tools: Matt Barkley appears to have a bright future in the NFL. His accuracy has improved and he's able to throw the deep ball when he needs to. He also can make plays with his feet if things break down. He has the skillset to be an NFL starter in no time.

Why He Goes Here: The Dolphins have ironically improved because of quarterback Matt Moore, but I also don't think he's the answer in Miami. He's played in nine games, and the Dolphins are 4-5 in those games.

Why He Fits With Miami: I don't think the Dolphins are going to pin their hopes on Matt Moore because he simply had a few good games. His career suggests he's not a franchise quarterback. I think the Dolphins play it safe and grab Barkley to see what he can do.

9. Tampa Bay Buccaneers: Zach Brown, OLB, North Carolina

Tools: Zach Brown is a complete linebacker. He make tackles in the open field, creates pressure off the line and his two interceptions this season show he can be an asset in pass coverage, as well. He's a great fit in a 4-3 defense.

Why He Goes Here: The 4-8 Buccaneers are going nowhere fast and their only winnable game the rest of the season may be against the Jacksonville Jaguars. They seem set to draft in the top 10.

Why He Fits With Tampa Bay: In the Buccaneers' 4-3 defense, Brown makes a whole lot of sense. The Buccaneers have had trouble against the run and the pass this season, and have a dismal 19 sacks on the season. Brown could help in all these areas.

10. Buffalo Bills: Vontaze Burfict, LB, Arizona State

Tools: Vontaze Burfict is the epitome of an inside linebacker. He's tremendously strong, hits hard and has a nasty temper. It has made him one of the most intimidating players in college football this season and it doesn't hurt that he runs the 40-yard dash in 4.4 seconds.

Why He Goes Here: The 5-7 Bills have hit a wall because of their defense. They aren't going anywhere if they can't add some stars on the defensive side of the ball. I don't see them finishing well this season.

Why He Fits With Buffalo: The Bills are giving up 4.7 yards per carry so far this season and it's a big reason why they've fallen. The Bills also have a league-worst 17 sacks. Burfict could help them in the pass-rushing department.

11. Kansas City Chiefs: Cordy Glenn, G/OT, Georgia

Tools: Cordy Glenn has the versatility to be inserted as a guard or offensive tackle, which makes him a good fit for practically any team with offensive line needs. He's 330 pounds, with good strength, but he can move surprisingly fast for his size and has the ability to make a big impact at either position.

Why He Goes Here: The Chiefs have been a major disappointment this season, at 5-7, and I don't see them winning any of their remaining games.

Why He Fits With Kansas City Chiefs: I really like Glenn's upside and he would help the Chiefs' running game and protection out a lot. The Chiefs have averaged just 3.9 yards per carry this season and right tackle Barry Richardson is a liability to say the least.

12. Arizona Cardinals: Riley Reiff, OT, Iowa

Tools: Riley Reiff is arguably the second-best left tackle in the draft class. He has a slender frame, which would normally bring up concerns about his ability against a bull rush, but he actually holds his weight very well, in part because he's technically sound and athletic. He'll be a prized tackle come draft day.

Why He Goes Here: The Cardinals haven't made much progress this season, despite acquiring quarterback Kevin Kolb and drafting former LSU star cornerback Patrick Peterson. They won't make much progress until draft day, either.

Why He Fits With Arizona: A lot of blame has been thrown Kolb's way this season in Arizona, but it doesn't help when he has probably the worst left tackle in football in Levi Brown. If the Cardinals are to developing a dynamic passing game, they need to give Kolb more time to throw. Reiff would help them do this.

13. San Diego Chargers: Jonathan Martin, OT, Stanford

Tools: Jonathan Martin has not only exhibited the ability to protect the quarterback for years in the NFL, he's one of the better run blockers in the class. He's athletic, tall and has the head-strong mentality to compete in the big and bad NFL.

Why He Goes Here: The Chargers have all but assured they won't be making the playoffs, and their inconsistency continues to doom them. But Martin will be a solid selection at this spot, a top-15 prospect.

Why He Fits With San Diego: Adding Martin opposite Marcus McNeill would bolster protection on the edges for quarterback Philip Rivers, enabling him to have more time to rack up passing yards.

14. Philadelphia Eagles: Manti Te'o, LB, Notre Dame

Tools: Manti Te'o has the athleticism and experience in multiple defenses to be a complete player in the NFL, but he's strongest as an inside linebacker, where he stuffs the run and makes running the ball difficult on the opposition. He's simply a tackling machine.

Why He Goes Here: With the disappointing Eagles set to miss the playoffs, Te'o should be available given their projected record. I see them going 6-10 this season.

Why He Fits With Philadelphia: It became evident early on this season that the Eagles didn't have the bulk to effectively stuff the run. They've allowed 4.4 yards per carry and 11 rushing touchdowns through Week 13. Te'o would be a needed presence in the middle.

15. Seattle Seahawks: Landry Jones, QB, Oklahoma

Tools: Landry Jones has a lot of tools to help him succeed in the NFL, and he could be a very good starter in the NFL, but his inconsistency is troubling and he hasn't lived up as the top-three quarterback prospect he was labeled as to start the year. His technique needs a little work, but he has the raw tools to be a starter in the NFL.

Why He Goes Here: The Seahawks seem destined for yet another 7-9 season. While that got them into the playoffs last season, the San Francisco 49ers have emerged as an elite team this season. The Seahawks have already lost the division.

Why He Fits With Seattle: The Seahawks simply can't go on much longer with Tarvaris Jackson and Charlie Whitehurst. They need to find a franchise quarterback, and Jones has the capability of being one.

16. Tennessee Titans: Michael Floyd, WR, Notre Dame

Tools: Michael Floyd comes with some character concerns after three alcohol-related offenses while at Notre Dame, but Floyd has emerged as a legitimate game-changer this season for the Fighting Irish. He seems quicker, with more burst, and his hands and size project him well onto the next level. He could actually be a steal at No. 16 overall.

Why He Goes Here: The Titans won't make the playoffs this season, particularly because quarterback Matt Hasselbeck has been spotty after starting the season well. Part of that is because the Titans don't have standout receivers beyond the injured Kenny Britt.

Why He Fits With Tennessee: Nate Washington is a decent No. 2 receiver, but he's nothing special. When Britt returns from injury, the Titans are going to have to find someone that can make an impact when he faces double coverage. He already seems ready for the NFL and could change the dynamic of the Titans' offense.

17. New York Jets: Lamar Miller, RB, Miami (FL)

Tools: Lamar Miller could be a dangerous player in the NFL based on his strength running the ball and as a receiver out of the backfield. He's not LeSean McCoy, but he's similar given his athleticism and burst. He's a legitimate top-15 prospect.

Why He Goes Here: I don't believe the Jets will make the playoffs this season, despite being in the playoff hunt, and a lot of that has to do with the sporadic play of quarterback Mark Sanchez and the fact that running back Shonn Greene isn't a legitimate feature back.

Why He Fits With New York Jets: Some believe Greene needs more time, but as far as I'm concerned, he's not the back to lead the Jets to the promised land. Miller could be a game-changer in the NFL, and the Jets need a spark to their offense.

18. New York Giants: David DeCastro, G, Stanford

Tools: David DeCastro is the best guard in the class in my opinion. He has solid blocking technique as a run and pass blocker, and he's particularly strong in the run game. Also, coming from Stanford's pro-style offense, he should be ready to contribute right away in the NFL.

Why He Goes Here: The Giants are another team in the playoff picture that has just been too inconsistent to make the playoffs. They are 6-6 so far and have been a big disappointment after faltering late last season.

Why He Fits With New York Giants: This isn't the biggest need for the Giants, but at No. 18 it's hard to pass up on a prospect like DeCastro. He's one of the best guard prospects in years and he would seriously bolster the Giants' offensive line, giving Eli Manning more time to throw and helping out running back Ahmad Bradshaw in the running game.

19. Cincinnati Bengals: Melvin Ingram, DE, South Carolina

Tools: Quick, strong, explosive and athletic. Sounds like an intriguing defense end prospect, doesn't it? Well, that's Melvin Ingram for you, who racked up 8.5 sacks and 12 tackles for a loss with South Carolina this regular season. He plays in a very good system, so there is some concern if his abilities have been guided, but I think he's individually a very good player, too.

Why He Goes Here: The Bengals got the Raiders' pick here in the Carson Palmer trade. I expect the Raiders to miss out on the playoffs, with the surging Denver Broncos winning the AFC West (sorry, Raiders fans).

Why He Fits With Cincinnati: With running backs Trent Richardson and Lamar Miller gone, I expect the Bengals to add to their burgeoning defense. With Ingram onboard, while quarterback Andy Dalton and receiver A.J. Green developing, the Bengals' woes could be a thing of the past.

20. Chicago Bears: Quinton Coples, DE, North Carolina

Tools: Based on such grand expectations, you could say North Carolina's Quinton Coples had disappointed a bit this season. But the fact remains that he has the tools, the quickness and strength, to play in a 3-4 or 4-3 scheme in the NFL. At No. 20 overall, he could be a steal.

Why He Goes Here: The Bears won't make the playoffs this season, and it's a shame because they were surging before quarterback Jay Cutler went down with an injury. Backup Caleb Hanie has played poorly, and the Bears lost despite holding the Kansas City Chiefs to 10 points in Week 13.

Why He Fits With Chicago: Coples would only add to the Bears' ferocity on defense. They have only 23 sacks this season, however, and Coples would help them get to the quarterback sooner. With Cutler back next season, it would be a nice step toward the playoffs.

21. Detroit Lions: Stephon Gilmore, CB, South Carolina

Tools: Stephon Gilmore is an all-around cornerback, with the ability to stop the run and shut down No. 1 receivers in the passing game. He also could be a scintillating return man in the NFL. He has the ability to be a Pro-Bowl player in my mind, and he'll likely fall this far based more on team needs than anything.

Why He Goes Here: The Lions find themselves struggling to make the playoffs after getting off to a great start this season. Nonetheless, I expect them to sneak in and grab a wild-card spot in the NFC.

Why He Fits With Detroit: Adding Gilmore would only add to the Lions' burgeoning defense, and when you are matched up with Aaron Rodgers and the Green Bay Packers, you need all the defense you can get.

22. Denver Broncos: Alfonzo Dennard, CB, Nebraska

Tools: Alfonzo Dennard's lack of aggressiveness or passion earlier this season had me labeling him as a bust in the draft. But he's come around recently, living up to his billing as a first-round prospect. He's a great press corner with outstanding leaping ability. His draft position lies in his heart on the football field.

Why He Goes Here: That's right, Tim Tebow's Denver Broncos will make the playoffs, and I have them selecting at No. 22 overall as a result. "Tebow Time" indeed.

Why He Fits With Denver: Dennard won't be the next Champ Bailey, but I do believe he can be a No. 1 cornerback in the NFL if he works hard. He has the tools to do so. The Broncos have struggled against the pass this season and they need to find an eventual replacement for Bailey.

23. Cincinnati Bengals: Janoris Jenkins, CB, North Alabama

Tools: The issue isn't with Janoris Jenkins' cover skills. Many believe he'd be a top-15 prospect based on his play on the field. The issues with him is his character concerns. He had not one, not two, but three marijuana-related offenses while at Florida, which consequently led to his dismissal. The definition of high-risk, high-reward.

Why He Goes Here: I have the Bengals going to the playoffs this season, and it's frankly amazing to me that I'm writing this. They've gone from "the worst team in the league" in the preseason to one of this year's Cinderellas.

Why He Fits With Cincinnati: When you draft multiple players with character concerns, it's not just a running joke anymore; it's a trend. The Bengals, like the Baltimore Ravens, brush past character concerns and take chances on the more talented players. Opposite Leon Hall, Jenkins could make the secondary a force if he gets his head on straight.

24. Dallas Cowboys: Dre Kirkpatrick, CB, Alabama

Tools: There are some concerns that Dre Kirkpatrick can't keep up with the faster receivers, particularly when he gets to the NFL, but he played a very good game against LSU's Reuben Randle this season and those concerns have diminished for me. If he can stay with the quicker players, his technique is excellent and he could realistically become a shutdown corner in the NFL.

Why He Goes Here: The Cowboys will make the playoffs this season, in part because they've played better in recent weeks, and in part because of a weak NFC East (who thought we'd be saying that in the preseason?).

Why He Fits With Dallas: The Cowboys could have drafted a cornerback in last season's draft, but they instead went with stellar right tackle Tyron Smith. Now they will work on the defensive side of the ball. The Cowboys have been better against the pass this season, but that has more to do with Rob Ryan's defensive blitz than the talent in the secondary. Kirkpatrick would be a welcome addition.

25. Houston Texans: Dontari Poe, NT, Memphis

Tools: Dontari Poe has risen up draft boards throughout the season. He has the frame and incredible strength to command double teams, and that will allow defenses to create more pressure around him. A legitimate first-round prospect here.

Why He Goes Here: I still believe the Texans will make the playoffs, even without quarterback Matt Schaub. Their defense will get them there, holding Matt Ryan and the Atlanta Falcons to just 10 points in Week 13.

Why He Fits With Houston: The Texans are suddenly starting to look like an elite defense, and it's no wonder why. They signed free agents Jonathan Joseph and Danieal Manning for their secondary in the offseason, and expertly drafted defensive end J.J. Watt and linebacker Brooks Reed. They add a solid nose tackle to create more havoc in the middle and they could be scary next season.

26. Cleveland Browns: Devon Still, DT, Penn State

Tools: There aren't a lot of top defensive tackles in this year's draft, but Devon Still is certainly a first rounder. He's strong, has great burst for a big man and plays with an aggressiveness NFL scouts love.

Why He Goes Here: The Browns receive the Atlanta Falcons' pick here via the 2011 NFL draft trade that netted the Falcons receiver Julio Jones. The Falcons are treading on ice right now, but I still think they'll make the playoffs behind Matt Ryan.

Why He Fits With Cleveland: After grabbing nose tackle Phil Taylor and defensive end Jabaal Sheard in last year's draft, the Browns will bolster the line if they draft Still. Still would help their rush defense (giving up 4.4 yards per carry this season) and add some pass-rushing ability, as well.

27. Pittsburgh Steelers: Jared Crick, DE, Nebraska

Tools: Jared Crick is most suited for a 3-4 scheme, but he's strong enough to develop in a 4-3 scheme, as well. His motor is relentless, similar to that of former Wisconsin defensive end J.J. Watt. A player who's going to give 100 percent and could actually become better than projected because of his work ethic.

Why He Goes Here: The Steelers, as always, appear ready to go deep into the playoffs. Their defense, Ben Roethlisberger and...yawn, we know the story.

Why He Fits With Pittsburgh: Crick would add to the Steelers' defense, adding to their mantra to simply overwhelm opponents. He's a player that screams "Steeler" to me and should gain the respect of the veterans in no time.

28. New England Patriots: Courtney Upshaw, LB, Alabama

Tools: Courtney Upshaw has simply been flying around the field this season, particularly in the second half. He has 8.5 sacks on the year, displaying his athleticism and pass-rushing ability, and he's one of those athletes you can seemingly plug in anywhere and he'll make you proud.

Why He Goes Here: The Patriots get the New Orleans Saints' pick in the draft. I see the Saints getting far into the playoffs, but not far enough to win another Super Bowl.

Why He Fits With New England: The Patriots could always use more help on the defensive line or the linebacking corps. Upshaw will be a pleasant surprise if he lands in the Patriots' lap and help bolster the defense while quarterback Tom Brady receives more time in the pocket all the while.

29. New England Patriots: Peter Konz, C, Wisconsin

Tools: Peter Konz is only a junior, but he already looks ready for the NFL. He has a mean streak and blocks with the best of them. There are concerns about a recent ankle injury, but his skills as the best center in the draft class are hard to ignore. He's also coming from a pro-style offense at Wisconsin, meaning his transition to the NFL will be fairly easy.

Why He Goes Here: That's right, the Patriots won't make the Super Bowl this season. The Baltimore Ravens will take that honor. Sorry, Pats fans. Blame it on Tom Brady...or the defense.

Why He Fits With New England: The Patriots need a replacement for Dan Koppen at center. He's 32 years old and fractured his ankle this season. It's time to start grooming the next protector of Mr. Tom Brady and Konz looks to be the man for the job.

30. San Francisco 49ers: Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor

Tools: Kendall Wright is being described as a DeSean Jackson-like player (without the character concerns). He's got electric speed and certainly has the explosiveness to separate from NFL cornerbacks. He's exploded up draft boards this season.

Why He Goes Here: I think the San Francisco 49ers will make it all the way to the NFC Championship Game this season. The defense is spectacular and the passing game continues to improve. Enough can't be said about the job rookie head coach Jim Harbaugh has done this season.

Why He Fits With San Francisco: Former first-rounder Michael Crabtree appears to be coming around, but offseason acquisition Braylon Edwards has been a big disappointment, in part because he's been injured throughout the season. The 49ers need another impact receiver for quarterback Alex Smith, who appears to be coming around himself. Wright could be a special player in the NFL.

31. Baltimore Ravens: Luke Kuechly, LB, Boston College

Tools: Luke Kuechly has been a tackling machine in college. In three seasons, he's racked up 516 tackles and he had 191 tackles this regular season. Those aren't misprints, folks. He hasn't played against much top competition, but there are certain players you can project will be fine at the next level by simply looking at the way they pursue. He is a bit undersized, however, and there are concerns he may not have the strength to work through a lot of traffic.

Why He Goes Here: I expect the Ravens to make the Super Bowl this season. They have one of their best defenses in years and a better offense than they had when they won the Super Bowl in 2000. They're allowing 16.0 points per game through Week 13 and held the 49ers to six points in Week 12.

Why He Fits With Baltimore Ravens: Let's be honest. Ray Lewis has to slow down at some point. Right? Lewis is 36 years old now and is still playing at a very high level, but age catches up to you eventually and the Ravens need to think about finding a replacement. Kuechly has the tackling ability and instincts to become a dependable NFL starter.

32. Green Bay Packers: Brandon Jenkins, DE, Florida State

Tools: Brandon Jenkins may be a stretch in the first round after a down year this season, but he still has an explosive first step with the quickness and strength to be an impact player in the NFL. And, c'mon, he still had seven sacks and 11 tackles for a loss this regular season. He could be used as an outside linebacker, too.

Why He Goes Here: That's right, I have the Packers repeating as Super Bowl champs and going undefeated this season. They are, simply, way too good for anyone else to unseat them, but I think the Ravens' defense would make it interesting.

Why He Fits With Green Bay: The Packers need help at defensive end, and Jenkins could be a steal at this spot. If he continues to be a solid pass-rusher in the NFL, which I believe he will, it just won't be fair to face the Packers anymore.