Report: LaMichael James will declare for 2012 NFL Draft

This would be an expected move after James strongly considered entering the draft last season.

This season James finished with 1,646 yards rushing with 17 touchdowns, despite missing two games with a dislocated elbow. Had he played every game this season, James likely would have been a Heisman Trophy candidate as he was last season.

James, the Ducks’ all-time leader in rushing yards, ran for 200 yards or more four times this season. James has also proven himself as a punt returner, which should help his draft stock. But it’s hard to see James getting taken in the first 50 picks. His first step is a little lacking and his playing style may not translate to the next level.

We currently have James rated as the fifth-best running back eligible for the draft. Read some prospect notes on him here.