NFL Draft 2012: Five Prospects Who Can Start From Day 1

We’re just a day away from the 2012 NFL Draft. Pretty exciting stuff, huh? It should be obvious who the first two picks will be. What’s going on after that? Well, that’s when things get interesting. We can all go over hundreds of mock drafts and scouting reports (we all know it’s out there), and speculate/assume what we think “our” team needs are and what should/will be filled in the draft.

The draft isn’t an exact science. A lot of great prospects come out of college every year and enter the NFL draft. But, just because they had great careers in college, it doesn’t necessarily mean they can make the transition to the pros. Some make it big, some are solid, and some are complete busts (read: JaMarcus Russell). On that happy note, let’s take a look at five prospects—not named Andrew Luck or Robert Griffin III—that will be drafted this year, who can start for their team on day 1.

Matt Kalil, OT, USC.

Projected team: Minnesota Vikings with the third overall pick.

Player analysis, here.

This team needed to find someone to protect the young QB, Christian Ponder. Matt Kalil is that person to do it. If not for the Vikings, then for a team who is desperately seeking help in protecting their QB. Kalil is a behemoth with incredible athleticsm. He is fast and has quick hands, perfect for getting his hands on pass-rushers. Matt Kalil can provide an upgrade to some o-lines in need of a left tackle.

Trent Richardson, RB, Alabama.

Projected team: Cleveland Browns with the fourth overall pick.

Player analysis, here.

The Cleveland Browns needed to address their RB issue when RB Peyton Hillis bolted to the Chiefs. Heck, this team needs to address various issues, but, that’s for another article. Trent Richardson is a great pick up. He’s a tremendous running back that can run you over, out-run you and juke you out of your ankles. He is also very effective catching passes out of the backfield. Richardson is regarded as the best running back in the draft. A very explosive runner who will make an immediate impact as a starter.

Justin Blackmon, WR, Oklahoma State.

Projected team: St. Louis Rams with the sixth overall pick.

Player analysis, here.

The past two seasons of Blackmon’college career, he has made a case and proven to be arguably the best wide receiver in the NCAA. IN those two seasons, Blackmon racked up 232 receptions for 3,304 yards and 38 touchdowns. He has the hands to catch the ball away from his body without having to slow down. His aggressiveness, blocking and knack for making the difficult catches will come of value for his team. The Rams, who were ranked 30th in passing yards last season, and quarterback Sam Bradford are in desperate need of a outside threat, and Blackmon will definitely give them this.

Melvin Ingram, DE/OLB, South Carolina.

Projected team: Seattle Seahawks with the 12th overall pick.

Player analysis, here.

The Seattle Seahawks are in serious need of a pass-rusher, and it is a priority the team must address. Melvin Ingram can provide just that, and can make an impact his rookie season. He is a fast, dominant pass-rusher that has the ability to change a game. He has the burst, quick feet and the agility to consistently beat pass blockers. He is also good with run-defense; he is capable of shedding blockers and making the tackles. Ingram showed he was the best pass-rusher at the Senior Bowl, and that is quite a feat, especially with all the other talent there. He showed great ability in linebacker drills and coverage, so his versatility is very valuable.

Kendall Wright, WR, Baylor.

Projected team: Cleveland Browns with the 22nd pick.

Player analysis, here.

As I mentioned earlier, Browns need a lot of work. Especially on offense. If they add Trent Richardson with the fourth pick and Kendall Wright with this pick, it immediately improves their offense and gives Colt McCoy much needed help. Wright, last season, had 108 receptions for 1,663 yards and 14 touchdowns for Baylor. His route running is very precise and he is explosive. He has the knack to turn short passes into big plays, or even touchdowns, with his ability to quickly change direction. His speed enables him to beat defenders. Although he is only 5’10″ he is a playmaker and gives the Browns offense a much needed spark.

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