Michigan running back Blake Corum is one of the top running backs in the 2024 NFL Draft, and multiple teams should be interested in the national champion in the third or fourth round. The Wolverines had one of the most run-heavy offenses in college football last year, and Jim Harbaugh’s squad rode Corum and his 28 combined touchdowns (27 rushing, one receiving) en route to their title.
A former four-star recruit, Blake Corum will impress NFL teams with his above-average vision, strength, and ability as a receiver out of the backfield. While he lacks the deep speed and elite athleticism to be a superstar at the next level, he should be one of the first rushers off the board in an admittedly weak running back draft class.
RB prospect Blake Corum is confident that his abilities will translate well in the NFL. 😤 (via @NFLTotalAccess) pic.twitter.com/i13djGGK3c
— NFL Network (@nflnetwork) April 9, 2024
5 Teams That Could Draft Blake Corum
Los Angeles Chargers
Far and away the most obvious fit on this list, these two reigning champions would like nothing more than to reunite at the professional level. Jim Harbaugh and Greg Roman both preach the value of a running game, but they need more depth in their backfield. Gus Edwards is a fine veteran, but Blake Corum has youth on is side and could run over teams in the back half of his rookie season.
Arizona Cardinals
James Conner quietly had a great year for the Arizona Cardinals, but the former third-round pick isn’t getting any younger. While the two-time Pro Bowler still has some juice in his tank, the Cardinals should find a future replacement for the 29-year-old running back. Corum’s hard-nosed style of running should complement Kyler Murray’s elusive scrambling ability as the two combine to form one of the game’s stronger rushing attacks. With three picks in the third round, Arizona should be able to jump multiple teams to select Blake Corum.
Dallas Cowboys
The Dallas Cowboys do not have a starting-caliber running back on their roster. This is surprising, as the Cowboys have historically valued the running game more than almost any other franchise in the league. Seeing as Rico Dowdle and Deuce Vaughn are the the top names on the depth chart, the Cowboys should be on the shortlist of teams interested in drafting Blake Corum in the third round.
Carolina Panthers
The Panthers are stuck with Miles Sanders for one more season, but that doesn’t mean they have to start him. Carolina has done a wonderful job of adding talent in free agency, but they still need a new running back. Sanders was the product of Philadelphia’s offensive line, and Chuba Hubbard is nothing more than an adequate journeyman. Blake Corum has the potential to be an above-average starter who can play on all three downs, and the Panthers should be one of the most interested teams.
Baltimore Ravens
In the short term, Derrick Henry and Lamar Jackson will form the most dangerous rushing attack in football. In the long term, however, Baltimore doesn’t have a plan for the running back position. While Keaton Mitchell showed some promise as a rookie, the undrafted free agent probably won’t turn into a full-time starter. Blake Corum could develop into a reliable three-down weapon and his hard-nosed style of running makes him the ideal short-term backup for Henry.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee – USA Today Sports
