Vols in the NFL draft

Though Tennessee struggled to a 5-7 record in the 2012 season, they had numerous players that are strong candidates to be drafted in this weekend's NFL Draft. Let's take a look at why NFL teams might want these players, concerns they have about these players, and where these guys might get drafted.

Tyler Bray- simply put. NFL scouts love the California native's ability to throw the ball. He has elite arm strength and when he keeps sound mechanics he can throw passes 99% of other quarterbacks can. A slew of incidents off the field combined with a poor win-loss record on the field give NFL teams pause about drafting the most physically quarterback in the draft. Expect him to be drafted between the 3rd and 5th rounds.

Cordarrelle Patterson- maybe the most electric player in this draft with the ball in his hands. Has ideal size at 6'2 217 and elite level speed. He is raw in route running and knowledge of the game, but his talent with the ball in his hands makes him a 1st round lock.

Justin Hunter- has elite speed and leaping ability and stands at 6'4. A prototypical downfield threat from a measurables standpoint for the NFL. Struggled with drops this past season. A late 1st round 2nd round pick most likely.

Dallas Thomas- scouts like his versatility as he can play all the offensive line positions. May not be an elite guy but looks like he will be a solid player for awhile. Probably a 2nd or 3rd round pick.

Mychal Rivera- definitely fits in the now pass-happy NFL where 2 pass catching tight end sets have become standard. Small for a tight end but definitely a plus in the passing game, will be a 6th or 7th round pick probably.

That's it for the Vols that will likely be drafted. It'll be exciting to see how this all goes down this weekend.