12 prospects with something extra to prove at the combine

The NFL Scouting Combine isn't the be-all and end-all in determining the value of prospective pro players - but for some young men, it is extremely important to have a strong showing.

Those who didn't get the chance to drum up noise at big-school programs will receive an opportunity to showcase their abilities alongside prospects who have become household names.

Beyond the on-field drills that expose individual athletic abilities (and inabilities), the combine offers players associated with injury issues, character concerns, legal troubles, and other potential red flags a chance to give their side of the story.

Here are 12 players who can significantly boost their draft value in various ways at the 2017 NFL Scouting Combine:

Jabrill Peppers, Michigan

Peppers was one of the stars of the 2016 NCAA season, making plays as a linebacker, safety, running back, and kick returner - but what will he be at the next level? The Heisman finalist will work out with the linebackers at the combine, but whether he has the size and power to take on NFL blockers needs to be determined. Peppers also hasn't shown the downfield cover skills to be a full-time safety. If he can keep up with the other linebacker prospects, scouts may become more confident about where he fits.

Tim Williams, Alabama

Williams is a highly touted pass-rusher coming out of Alabama's loaded defense, but a September arrest and reports of multiple failed drug tests for marijuana could hurt his stock. The 23-year-old was arrested and charged with carrying a pistol without a permit, and his reported marijuana use will be much more concerning to some NFL teams than others. His on-field talents are undeniable, but the way Williams presents himself to teams in interviews will determine his draft worth.

Jake Butt, Michigan

Butt proved to be a solid receiver and blocker through four years at Michigan, but the end of his college career casts doubt on the beginning of his NFL tenure. The 2016 John Mackey Award winner tore his ACL in Michigan's Orange Bowl loss Dec. 30 and underwent surgery Jan. 10. It's entirely possible to recover from an ACL injury, but the tight end needs to show teams that he's on track to return at some point next season and will be able to continue his career without issues.

Jarron Jones, Notre Dame

Over his five years at Notre Dame, Jones flashed both brilliance and laziness. The 6-foot-5 defensive tackle went down with consecutive injuries at the end of the 2014 season and the beginning of 2015 season, which caused him to miss his senior season with a medical redshirt. Coaches reportedly had to work to keep him interested in football during his college career. He also didn't treat his offseasons as seriously as Notre Dame coaches wanted. Jones needs to convince teams he'll be a more focused player now that he is out of school and seeking to be paid for his talents.

Cam Robinson, Alabama

Robinson looks to be the premier offensive line prospect coming out in this year's draft, but the Alabama tackle has some legal problems to explain. Last May, Robinson and a teammate were arrested for possession charges concerning a controlled substance, an illegal firearm, and a stolen gun, but were able to escape without any disciplinary repercussions. He can erase any question marks in his interview process, and could solidify his top-pick position with a dominant on-field display.

Ryan Ramczyk, Wisconsin

Behind Robinson, Ramczyk should be the most attractive offensive tackle prospect. The team that picks him, though, will have to evaluate the Wisconsin product from his game film. Ramczyk suffered a hip injury in December and was reportedly expected to miss four months following surgery. He should be far enough along in his recovery process to show teams exactly how long it will take until he's back on the field through the medical examination process.

Cooper Kupp, Eastern Washington

Kupp flew up draft boards after an outstanding Senior Bowl week. Though he didn't get much exposure playing at a small school, the 6-foot-2 receiver was a stud for four years at Eastern Washington. Another strong showing at the combine should solidify Kupp's position as a Day 2 draft pick, possibly coming off the board early in the second round.

Adam Shaheen, Ashland

Shaheen displayed freak athleticism for a tight end while setting school records in Div. II at Ashland, but never went up against top-end talent, let alone got any time on television. He moves extremely well for a receiver of his build, but is still fairly raw. Shaheen could impress by displaying his physical traits without pads on at the combine, motivating scouts to look at his college tape.

DeMarcus Walker, Florida State

Walker's production numbers have been outstanding - he racked up 16 sacks and 19.5 tackles for a loss in 2016 - but there is concern over his physical abilities. The Florida State defensive end has not displayed much speed or foot quickness and appeared winded near the end of close games. He has some techniques that have proved successful at the collegiate level and the stats to back up his game, but a few below-average test times could sink his stock.

Carl Lawson, Auburn

Lawson stayed healthy enough to remain in the lineup for the 2016 season, recording 9.5 sacks and 14 tackles for a loss, but his college career has been marred by injuries. He tore his ACL in 2014 and missed an entire year before cracking his hip in the 2015 season opener. Lawson's talents as a pass-rusher alone would get his name called in the second round, but the former Auburn player's medical evaluation will have a lot to say about his draft position.

Larry Ogunjobi, Charlotte

Ogunjubi comes from about the smallest of small schools. He was part of North Carolina-Charlotte's first collegiate football season in 2015 and played in all 46 games of its history. Ogunjubi looked impressive against other small schools, but faltered when facing the big-boy programs, so he should be looking to redeem himself at the combine. This year's defensive tackle class isn't loaded with surefire talent, and Ogunjubi could be the kind of project player someone finds late who develops into a contributor.

Davon Godchaux, LSU

Godchaux won't be selected high - and if he wants to be selected at all, he has some explaining to do. The 21-year-old defensive tackle was booked on charges of false imprisonment, domestic abuse battery, and child endangerment in September after an altercation with his girlfriend. He was initially suspended indefinitely, but after being cleared of charges, he returned to lead LSU's defensive line in tackles. Godchaux's rough childhood is well-documented, but he can't use that as an excuse when interviewing with teams that he hopes will pay him millions.

(Photos courtesy: Action Images)