Michael Bush set to announce decision

In late December, Louisville junior running back Michael Bush applied to the NFL Draft Advisory Committee to check his stock in this year's NFL Draft. A 6-foot-3, 250-pound bruising back, Bush rushed for 1,143 yards and 23 touchdowns in just nine total games his junior season. Now, Bush has alerted media sources that he's ready to announce his decision.

Media around Louisville received the following email from U of L Assistant Sports Information Director Rocco Gasparro Wednesday morning:

Michael Bush will be available to meet with the media on Thursday, January 12, at 3:00 p.m. in (location protected). He will discuss his future at the University of Louisville.

Bush averaged an amazing 5.6 yards per carry, and was easily one of the most productive running backs in the nation. Because of his size, NFL scouts have been constantly on watch since he became a running back before the 2004 season.

A local product from Louisville Male High School, Bush played quarterback his senior season in high school and was one of the top-ranked overall athletes in the nation according to Rivals.com. Without a redshirt season, Bush has already leaped into the Top 10 in the school's all-time running back rankings.

One factor in Bush's decision has been watching the national wires for other junior running backs declaring their professional intentions. Minnesota back Laurence Maroney (5-11, 205) declared for the draft earlier this month. UCLA running back Maurice Drew (5-8, 205) also declared for the draft this week.

Three more running backs- Wisconsin's Brian Calhoun and Southern Cal's LenDale White and Reggie Bush - are all expected to announce their decisions in the next 24 hours. All three are expected to turn pro.