First, the New York Giants released veteran running back Brandon Jacobs. Now, there is talk that Jacobs and the Giants might get back together again.
Even if they do, Giants general manager Jerry Reese might be tempted to do something about a fresh, young pair of legs to the team's backfield. Which, to be honest, is not a bad idea considering that the constant injuries to Ahmad Bradshaw's feet and ankles make you wonder about his longevity.
Enter the subject of today's 2012 NFL Draft Prospect Profile -- Washington running back Chris Polk. In the most recent Draft Tek 2012 NFL Draft Simulation, Draft Tek's computers give Polk to the Giants in the second round, 64th overall.
Draft Tek says: "With Jacobs' release, this pick becomes even easier, as behind Bradshaw the Giants have Ware, Scott, and Andre Brown. Polk - at 5-foot-11, 215 - is the best back on the board, and a very good value in the late 2nd. Polk could step in immediately and compete for the No. 2 spot in the Giants backfield."
Polk was impressive at Washington's Pro Day, running between 4.45 and 4.49 in the 40-yard dash, and coming in at 212 pounds, lighter than he was at the NFL Scouting Combine. CBS Sports' Rob Rang was particularly impressed by Polk's "soft, reliable hands and route-running ability that I believe is his most underrated quality and why the Washington running back remains in the hunt (along with Boise State's Doug Martin, Virginia Tech's David Wilson and Miami's Lamar Miller) to be the second back selected in the 2012 draft."
Other Running Back Prospect Profiles
- David Wilson, Virginia Tech
- Doug Martin, Boise State
- Lamar Miller, Miami
The National Football Post says:
"Is a big kid with a good feel inside, runs hard and will break some tackles. However, pad level, initial burst and lack of great change of direction skills make me think he's potential NFL starter only."
Sideline Scouting also offers some thoughts on Polk:
"Tough physical runner who is a load to bring down, always keeps his legs moving... Terrific between the tackles, doesn't dance in the hole and is always moving up the field ... Great vision, picks his spots well and does a good job of finding the hole ... does not dance in the backfield... Good blocker who anchors well and picks up his assignments ... Solid receiver out of the backfield, displays soft hands and an ability to run good routes ...
Does a lot of things well, but nothing spectacular, an overall solid player."
Chris Polk Profile
Height: 5-foot-11
Weight: 215 pounds
School: Washington
40 time: 4.57
2011 Stats: 293 carries, 1,488 yards (5.1 yards per carry), 12 touchdown, 31 pass receptions, 332 yards, 4 touchdowns