LaMichael James isn't the only high profile Northwest running back prospect in the 2012 NFL Draft. Chris Polk of the Washington Huskies is also the mix. Polk is a physical runner with great skills and could develop into a solid player in the league, and provided a great complement to breakout quarterback Keith Price and the efficient Washington offense.
Polk is one of those guys a team that really needs to rebuild their running game could absolutely use. The Atlanta Falcons seem to be a logical candidate to draft him, as Draft Tek has them taking him with the 54th overall pick in the 2nd round of the NFL Draft. More on the reasoning for this pick below (click here for the full draft board).
As scary as it sounds for Atlanta fans, Michael Turner is on the decline and Jason Snelling is a Unrestricted Free Agent this offseason. Chris Polk fits Atlanta's tendency to take guys who are academic seniors and graduate college before they go pro as Polk is a three year starter and a RS Junior. Was a leader for the Huskies off the field, and kept his nose clean in college. Also is one of the better rushing guys in the Pac-10 the past 3 years. Had 1100 yards for the Huskies in 2009 and over 1400 in both 2010 and 2011, all while staying under 300 carries all 3 years. Will be the workhorse to pair with Jacquizz Rodgers for the next 5-6 years. All this being said, look for Atlanta to also consider the LT, RG, DE and TE positions here - losing that 1st round pick to Cleveland hurts!
To discuss Polk and the Falcons, head to The Falcoholic. To talk about Polk with Washington football fans, go to UW Dawg Pound. To talk about the NFL Draft in general, head to Mocking the Draft.