I think Polson is giving it everything he has got and that is very commendable. I think Pickett could learn something from that. Others like Buckley and Armfield also gave it everything but were ultimately short of the mark. Armfield is a good comparison. Armfield's first season at Carlton versus Polson's second season puts them in the same ball park.
Polson's last game was his best which is a positive, but the game was a training drill too with no pressure (a lessening factor IMO). Like draft prospects are rated the most based on the champs, you need to take this into account with Polson's last game. It's a negative view from me, yes.
Being negative is a tough one on this forum. I want Carlton to win a flag. Hawks were ruthless when Dunstall made those hard decisions years ago - it set them up for what they are now.
When Cuningham comes back i just hope Bolton and the fwds coach could take him and train him in a similar role. Has more weapons and a stronger AFL body. But is Cuningham's decision making good enough and is he willing to be a chaser like Polson? Dont know but want to see it tested. Otherwise SoS can look at drafting/trading another option.
For Polson's own sake and taking his point of view, i hope he can put on a bit more height/weight; not a lot is required but a bit more. Then i think he could develop a bit more. So far his game is based on speed, tackling/harassing and decision making. A bit more weight would hlep him stick the 50/50 tackles against bigger bodies. Better decision making would come with experience im sure.