NFL Combine 2012 Results: Chris Polk Proves Why He's a First-Round Pick

University of Washington running back Chris Polk saw his draft stock take an unfair hit after a mediocre showing at the Senior Bowl. Of course, after running 4.46 40-yard dash today, he'll likely see an unfair rise in his stock.

It all evens out, right? 

Let's take a look at the Husky's roller-coaster ride.

Polk before the Senior Bowl

Polk was insanely productive during his career at Washington. In three seasons, he averaged 260 carries and just under 1,340 rushing yards per season and ten touchdowns per year. 

He improved every season and finished his last season with over 1,800 total yards and 16 touchdowns. Numbers don't always equal popularity among scouts, but they did with Polk.

He was seen as an impressive specimen who could run between the tackles without going down on first contact, he was seen as a speedster who could hit the hole or get to the outside with ease and he was seen a dual-threat talent who could also catch the ball out of the backfield.

Most importantly, he was seen as a late-first-round pick. 

Polk after the Senior Bowl

At the Senior Bowl and during the practices leading up to it, Polk looked slow and indecisive. Whether he was out of shape or just slower than we all thought, scouts weren't impressed.

After just one week, his burst was gone and his stock had dropped to second or third-round talent. 

Polk after the Combine

Well, after running a 4.46, Bleacher Report's Matt Miller pointed out Polk wasn't quite what everyone thought he was. 

"

Chris Polk neither out of shape nor slow. Still a first rounder

"

"— Matt Miller (@nfldraftscout) February 26, 2012"

So, essentially, Polk is a first-round talent with the only question mark being his explosiveness and speed. First he was fast, then he was slow, now he's fast again.

He's easily a top three running back, and there's nothing left that will change that opinion again. 

Oh wait, Washington's Pro Day is March 8. Uh oh...