Blake Corum: Michigan's Relentless Running Back and NFL Prospect
In the world of college football, few names have risen as swiftly and powerfully as Blake Corum. Known for his relentless work ethic, dynamic playstyle, and leadership on and off the field, Corum has carved out a legacy at the University of Michigan. As he eyes the future, including the NFL, it’s worth exploring what makes him one of the most exciting talents in recent memory.
Who Is Blake Corum?
Blake Corum is an American football running back who has made waves at the University of Michigan. Born on November 25, 2000, in Marshall, Virginia, Corum showed athletic promise from an early age. He attended St. Frances Academy in Baltimore, Maryland — a school known for producing top-tier football talent — before committing to Michigan.
At 5-foot-8 and weighing approximately 210 pounds, Corum might not be the most physically imposing player on the field, but he makes up for it with his explosiveness, low center of gravity, and razor-sharp football IQ.
Career Overview and Statistics
From the moment Corum stepped onto the field for the Wolverines, he made an impact. Whether it was explosive runs, clutch plays, or grinding out yardage in tough situations, Corum consistently proved his value. Below is a summary of his college career highlights:
Blake Corum – College Career Statistics (University of Michigan)
| Season | Games Played | Rushing Yards | Touchdowns | Yards/Carry | Receptions | Receiving Yards |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 6 | 77 | 2 | 4.1 | 5 | 73 |
| 2021 | 12 | 952 | 11 | 6.6 | 24 | 141 |
| 2022 | 12 | 1,463 | 18 | 5.9 | 11 | 80 |
| 2023 | 14 | 1,245 | 27 | 4.9 | 16 | 117 |
Corum’s breakout year came in 2022, when he dominated Big Ten defenses with his combination of speed, balance, and toughness. Despite a knee injury late in the season, his 1,463 rushing yards and 18 touchdowns earned him Heisman Trophy consideration and All-American honors.
In 2023, he bounced back with another strong campaign, leading the Wolverines to a College Football Playoff appearance and setting a school record with 27 rushing touchdowns in a season.
Playing Style and Strengths
Corum is the definition of a complete back. While many college running backs rely on one or two elite traits, Corum combines several, making him highly versatile. Let’s break down what sets him apart:
Key Strengths
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Vision and Patience: Corum excels at waiting for blocks to develop and finding the smallest of holes to exploit.
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Burst and Acceleration: His quick first step allows him to explode through gaps before defenders react.
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Balance and Strength: He often breaks tackles and stays upright after contact, despite his relatively small frame.
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Pass Protection: Unlike many college RBs, Corum is an above-average blocker, making him a true three-down back.
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Work Ethic: Teammates and coaches alike rave about his dedication in the weight room, film sessions, and community.
Off the Field: Leadership and Impact
Blake Corum isn’t just a star on the field — he’s also known for his off-field contributions. A deeply spiritual and community-oriented person, Corum has made headlines for his charitable work. In 2021, he used his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) earnings to fund a Thanksgiving turkey drive for families in need in Ypsilanti, Michigan.
He’s also spoken out about the importance of education and being a role model for younger athletes. Corum's character and leadership have been repeatedly praised by Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh, who called him “one of the best guys you’ll ever meet.”
NFL Potential and Draft Stock
As of 2025, Blake Corum is widely expected to enter the NFL Draft. Despite concerns about his height, scouts see him as an early Day 2 pick (second or third round), with the potential to rise depending on his performance at the NFL Combine and pro day.
NFL teams looking for a tough, smart, versatile running back will find Corum highly appealing. He projects well as a committee back initially, with potential to grow into a feature back role, especially in outside zone or power run schemes.
What NFL Teams Might Target Blake Corum?
Here’s a list of NFL teams that could be a strong fit for Corum’s skillset:
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Baltimore Ravens – Hometown feel and a run-first offense.
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Philadelphia Eagles – They love physical runners who can catch and block.
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Miami Dolphins – Need depth and explosiveness in their backfield.
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Chicago Bears – Young offense needing a dependable running presence.
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Cincinnati Bengals – A tough runner to complement Joe Burrow’s air attack.
Awards and Recognition
Blake Corum’s list of accolades continues to grow. Below is a summary of his major awards:
| Year | Award/Honor |
|---|---|
| 2022 | First-Team All-American (Consensus) |
| 2022 | Big Ten Running Back of the Year |
| 2022 | Doak Walker Award Finalist |
| 2023 | All-Big Ten First Team |
| 2023 | Michigan MVP |
He was also a consistent presence in Heisman Trophy discussions, particularly in the 2022 season, before his injury.
The Legacy at Michigan
Blake Corum's legacy at the University of Michigan is cemented. He ranks among the all-time leaders in:
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Rushing Touchdowns
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Total Rushing Yards
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Yards per Carry
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Total Points Scored
More importantly, his leadership helped bring Michigan back to national prominence, including multiple Big Ten Championships and College Football Playoff appearances.
Final Thoughts
Blake Corum is more than just a college football star — he’s a symbol of resilience, discipline, and leadership. As he transitions into the next chapter of his football journey, likely in the NFL, he leaves behind a powerful example for future Wolverines and college athletes everywhere.
Whether you admire his highlight-reel runs, his commitment to his team, or his community service, one thing is clear: Blake Corum is built different — and he’s just getting started.
