The NFL Draft will begin on April 25, 2024. We take a look at Blake Corum, a former four-star recruit who posted solid statistics at the University of Michigan.
Corum, a running back, has significant experience against top-notch competition, playing in over 40 games and 1,300 snaps. He is a highly sought-after offensive prospect in the upcoming 2024 NFL Draft.
Blake Corum, RB, Michigan
Name: Blake Corum
Jersey: No. 2
Position: Running Back
School: Michigan
Class: Senior
Height: 5-foot-8
Weight: 215 lbs.
Awards: Unanimous All-American (2022), Ameche-Dayne Running Back of the Year (2022, 2023), Doak Walker Award Finalist
Games Watched: Iowa (2022), Ohio State (2022), Penn State (22-23) & Rutgers (2023)
Major Injury History: Torn Left Meniscus vs. Illinois (Nov. 27, 2022) – required surgery
Blake Corum's 17-yd TD in OT was a nice snapshot of his best traits.
– Quick decision-maker.
– Agile athlete with feet + eyes on same page.
– Always locates his next block.
– Runs low and physical to spin off contact. pic.twitter.com/hENZ13MrEa— Dane Brugler (@dpbrugler) January 2, 2024
Strengths
Corum brings a workhorse back style of play. Displays a good understanding of the game, attacking the line of scrimmage, frequently getting to the second level with vision and quick decision-making ability. On top of the vision, he demonstrates good footwork and patience behind the line of scrimmage. Showcases exceptional burst through the tackles and on cuts, allowing him to explode through holes or defenders. Keeps his legs moving with good pad level, often making the first defender miss. His agility and frame allow him to get slippery through tight spaces or bend outside and find a hole.
Weaknesses
Inconsistency is an issue. Corum’s vision can sometimes disappear, and he occasionally misses ideal gaps on inside-zone runs or hesitates ahead of walls. Drifts himself into contact whether going out too wide or missing the hole by playing himself out of position. Pass protection ability is concerning. He’s raw in picking up blitzers or diagnosing protection schemes due to missing on defensive ends if needed. This means he needs to sharpen his pass protection IQ. Finally, he lacks elite breakaway speed, especially at the second level.
Summary
Blake Corum demonstrates a combination of short-area burst, lateral movement, and a low center of gravity. His vision, patience, footwork, and unmatched acceleration are intriguing. With that being said, I do not see him as an every-down back. His best scenario at the next level would be grinding out tough yardage as a great rotational back in the NFL.
Pro Comparison: Doug Martin
Draft Projection: Third Round
Grade: Fourth Round
Main Image Credit:
