Tag: Chris Polk

Rookie Preview: Philadelphia Eagles

Eagles, Rookie Notes
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Nick Foles – The Philadelphia Eagles may have found their eventual replacement for Mike Vick. Foles won the backup job over Mike Kafka and Trent Edwards.

The Eagles have high expectations for Cox

Fletcher Cox – The 1st-round pick isn’t expected to start, but he will play a significant role as part of the defensive line rotation. They’ll likely ease him into a more prominent role as the season progresses.

Mychal Kendricks – The 2nd-round pick is expected to start at strong-side linebacker and could be a Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate.

Brandon Boykin – Boykin may see playing time as the nickel corner, but will make his biggest impact on special teams. He is expected to begin the year as the team’s primary kick returner.

Vinny Curry – Curry was slowed by a high ankle sprain this offseason which may have limited his ability to make an early impact. He’ll be part of the defensive line rotation, but could compete for a starting job by the end of the year.

Damaris Johnson – The undrafted free agent likely won’t see many balls thrown his way, but is expected to be return punts.

Others: running back Chris Polk, running back Bryce Brown, offensive tackle Dennis Kelly

Chris Polk scouting report

Scouting Reports - 2012
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Chris Polk RB Washington #1
Ht: 5’11”
Wt: 224		  
Strengths:
Prototypical size and strength. A tough between-the-tackles runner. Fairly quick for his size; can make guys miss in the open field. Quick feet; above average change-of-direction ability. Reliable receiver out of the backfield; knows how to find a soft spot in zone coverage and has soft hands. Adequate speed. Above-average blocking ability for a running back; clearly puts forth a solid effort and shows good fundamentals. Experience returning kicks.
Weaknesses:
Serious injury concerns. Suffered season-ending shoulder injury in 2008. Underwent a second surgery on shoulder in 2009. Underwent knee surgery prior to 2011 season. Has a very reckless running style in the open field; looks out of control and will inexplicably leap in the air at times, making himself susceptible to big hits and fumbles. Tends to run upright unless lowering shoulder into a defender. Doesn’t look to make guy miss; seems to be the type of runner who looks for contact. Doesn’t appear to have great vision when running between the tackles; picks a spot and goes full speed ahead, rarely adjusting until it’s too late. Doesn’t go down on first contact, but also doesn’t break as many tackles as you’d expect for his size.
Comments:
Polk clearly has the measurables of a feature back, but lacks the vision and all-around fundamentals to smoothly transition to the next level. In time, he could certainly develop into a quality running back, but he should not be viewed as someone who can come in and play a significant role from day one. It should be noted that he was not surrounded by much talent at Washington, and played through a coaching change, which could have stunted his development. He’s a candidate to blossom later than most running backs, but is far from a sure thing.
Videos:
2011 vs Colorado
2011 vs Nebraska