The Cowboys Might Sign a Running Back Who Could Break Records: Seen as a Prudent Decision

The Dallas Cowboys may be seeking a running back capable of setting records. Heading into the 2024 NFL draft, the team finds itself without a clear starting option at the position, having lost Tony Pollard to free agency and currently relying on Rico Dowdle, Malik Davis, and Deuce Vaughn. Together, these three backs only managed 112 carries for 401 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the 2023 season, with Davis failing to register any statistics. However, Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox suggests in his list of three “hidden-gem prospects” for the Cowboys to pursue that Blake Corum, a running back from the University of Michigan, could be a viable option.
Knox suggests that Corum, projected to be selected on Day 3 of the draft, could bring significant athletic potential to the Cowboys’ running back position. While Corum may not possess the exceptional athleticism of a prospective superstar, Knox emphasizes his proficiency as a fundamentally sound runner who excels at reading defenses and capitalizing on blocks. Furthermore, Corum’s ability to handle a substantial number of carries, surpassing 240 in each of the past two seasons, demonstrates his capacity to manage a heavy workload effectively.
It’s anticipated that Blake Corum won’t be chosen until at least the 4th round of the draft.
Corum is positioned as the 114th-ranked prospect on Bleacher Report’s prominent list. In their detailed scouting evaluation, they place the 5-foot-8, 205-pound Corum as the eighth-best running back available in the draft. Despite this ranking, Bleacher Report foresees him being selected in the fifth round. Knox highlights that the Cowboys lack a fourth-round draft pick. However, he suggests that the team could potentially leverage their collection of later picks to trade up in the draft if they deem it necessary to secure Corum.
According to Knox, the Cowboys possess picks at No. 174, 216, and 233. By bundling these selections, they might be able to maneuver a trade and enter the fourth round. Knox views this as a prudent strategy, especially considering the perceived lack of talent in the later stages of the 2024 draft class.

Notably, despite being 23 years old, Corum achieved record-breaking success as a running back at the University of Michigan. Aside from guiding the Wolverines to a national championship in his final season, he set a single-season record for touchdowns with 27 and established a new all-time record for touchdowns in the school’s history with 58.
Corum’s achievements extend further as he was honored with back-to-back selections to the All-American Team. This recognition came after his remarkable performances in both the 2022 and subsequent seasons. In 2022, he showcased his prowess by rushing for an impressive 1,463 yards, solidifying his status as a standout player in collegiate football.
Why Cowboys Could Draft Blake Corum
Corum, characterized by his diminutive stature, is renowned for his exceptional vision on the field and his adeptness at capitalizing on the blocks set up by his teammates.

In terms of vision and decision making, you won’t find a better runner in this class than Corum,” writes Klassen. “He consistently picks out the right rushing lanes and almost never wastes time behind the line of scrimmage, both of which limit negative plays. Corum is also very willing to plunge forward to get the yards that are there rather than dance around and risk wasting plays.”

The Cowboys could have interest in reuniting with former starting back Ezekiel Elliott. While that would be a nice move — especially for short-yardage and goal line situations — Dallas still needs a young back capable of handling the workload as a starting back.

Considering Corum racked up at least 247 carries in each of the past two seasons — he ranked seventh among all players in carries in 2023 — he could very well serve as a viable back in a committee system.