Report: Seahawks' Prosise to start despite Rawls' return

With the Seattle Seahawks' unexpected release of starting running back Christine Michael this week, many concluded the move meant the returning Thomas Rawls would take over as starter.

After all, it's a role Rawls held and excelled in last season.

Not so fast.

Rookie C.J. Prosise, who started the first game of his career in Week 10, is expected to remain the Seahawks' starter for the immediate future, according to ESPN's Chris Mortensen.

The Seahawks' third-round pick has impressed in recent weeks, including a 153-yard performance against the New England Patriots in his first start.

A converted wideout, Prosise may just be scratching the surface of what he's capable of as a running back.

Mortensen also reports that Michael's release was not because of an off-field incident, but rather his regression as a runner. Michael got hot for a stretch, rushing for two touchdowns twice between Weeks 3 and 6, but has cooled off considerably.

The Green Bay Packers claimed Michael off waivers Wednesday.