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Blake Corum

Summary

Blake Corum was selected in Round 3 (#83 Overall) in the 2024 Draft out of University of Michigan. Corum enters the NFL as a compact yet highly productive running back known for his low‑center of gravity, outstanding contact balance, and excellent vision inside the tackles. His collegiate résumé at Michigan includes multiple seasons of high output, a national championship, and a reputation for finishing runs and picking his spots. While his size (≈5′8″, 205 lbs) and straight‑line burst are not elite by NFL RB standards, his combination of attributes (vision, power, movement) project him as a potential early contributor. That said, his optimal role may be somewhat specialized, rather than as a pure “every‑down” starter right away.

Strengths

  • Exceptional vision and decision‑making through the line: Corum consistently shows an ability to identify the correct gap, trust his blocks, and make decisive cuts that yield positive yardage. Bleacher Report

  • Excellent contact balance and ability to finish runs: Despite his smaller stature, he runs with physicality, fabrics his lower body as a runner, and rarely goes down easily when contact occurs. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Low‑center of gravity and change‑of‑direction agility: His build and footwork allow him to navigate traffic, make defenders miss in short‑area space, and be effective between the tackles. NFL Draft Buzz

  • Strong run‑game résumé and production pedigree: At Michigan he racked up significant touchdowns and role‑responsibility, making him a proven collegiate performer rather than purely a projection. Maize n Brew

  • Versatility in usage and willingness to block/catch: While not his primary trait, he has shown enough in pass‑pro and receiving drills to suggest he can be more than a pure downhill runner. PFSN

Weaknesses

  • Limited top‑end burst and long‑speed threat: While quick in short areas, his straight‑line speed and ability to consistently break off long runs is questioned, especially versus elite defenders. PFSN

  • Size and durability concerns for an every‑down back: At ~5′8″ and 205 lbs, his frame is smaller than typical for high‑volume work in the NFL; this raises questions about workload, longevity, and physical match‑ups.

  • Pass‑pro and receiving game still developing: Although competent, his blocking and receiving chops are not yet at the level of elite three‑down backs; this limits his immediate versatility on passing downs. Bleacher Report

  • Role ceiling may be committee/rotational: Given his size and athlete profile, some evaluations suggest his best path is as a high‑end complement or second back rather than a workhorse from day one.

  • Age and wear may impact trajectory: Corum is an older rookie (24) and carries significant collegiate mileage, which could factor into athletic longevity. PFSN

Fit & Outlook

Blake Corum fits best in an NFL offense that utilizes multiple backs, emphasizes zone‑run or gap‑scheme elements, and values physical runners with decisive movement rather than pure burner speed. A team that rotates backs, uses him in early‑down and short‑yardage situations, and leverages his strengths in decisiveness and contact balance will maximize his impact. Offenses that rely heavily on long outside runs, high‑volume receiving back usage, or expect their RB to dominate on passing downs may limit his early value. In terms of outlook: his floor is as a very productive rotational back—someone who contributes reliably in first‑and‑second down situations, short‑yardage/goal‑line, and possibly as the “complement” to a lead back. His upside is meaningful: if he holds up physically, continues to improve in the pass game, and is given a path to early‑down carries, he could develop into a high‑end No. 2 or borderline No. 1 back in the right system. The key risks revolve around size/physical wear, whether he can expand his receiving/pass‑pro tool‑box, and whether he lands in an offense that utilizes him flexibly rather than pigeonholing him. Overall, Corum brings a strong combination of traits, production, and character that suggest he will be a valuable asset for years—especially in the right scheme.