The Buccaneers made a significant effort to strengthen their running game in 2023, and while the results were initially disappointing, they were able to have a better rushing offense last season, but what happens now?
For the second consecutive season, the run game will be emphasized. Rachaad White improved in both the run and pass game in 2023, and the Bucs re-signed Chase Edmonds, but they may look to the NFL draft to add another.
That is where a player like Michigan’s Blake Corum may come into play and bring another dimension to the Bucs’ running back corps.
Blake Corum’s Collegiate Career
Corum spent four seasons at Michigan and was one of the top running backs in college football the last two years. After rushing for over 1400 yards and 18 touchdowns in 2022, he went on to have another 1,000-yard season with 27 touchdowns. His senior year was memorable, as Michigan had a successful season, culminating in a national title.
Pro Day and NFL Scouting Combine
Corum recorded a 4.53-second 40-yard sprint and a 1.58-second 10-yard split during the combine. During the 20 yard shuttle he did 4.12 seconds and a 3.82 second three cone drill. He also jumped 35.5 inches in the vertical jump, but did not compete in the broad jump. Corum also participated in the bench press, performing 27 reps.
Corum chose not to run the 40 yard sprint again at his pro day, but he did the 20 yard shuttle exercise and recorded a mark of 4.07 seconds, which improved on his combine score.
What Corum can do for the Bucs in 2024
Drafting Blake Corum would give the Bucs a strong one-two punch alongside Rachaad White. While he wasn’t used much in the receiving game at Michigan, he had strong hands when called upon. Chase Edmonds is a good player, but he probably wouldn’t offer them the same boost that Corum would. He is an experienced player who can fit into a variety of systems.
Being able to relieve Rachaad White’s workload and keep his legs fresher as the season progresses would be beneficial for Tampa Bay, and adding another great back like Corum might allow them to introduce a few more wrinkles into the system.
Corum is unlikely to be the starter in 2024, but he would be an excellent complementary player.
Three-Year-Outlook
This is where the prospective selection of Corum becomes very fascinating. Rachaad White has only two seasons left on his current contract, and NFL general managers are still cautious to offer running backs a lot of money on a second contract. If the Bucs had another alternative, such as Corum, they could easily explain letting White depart if his price is too high and relying on Corum as their starting running back.
Corum’s role would be limited in 2024, but his three-year view suggests that he might be a future every down back in the NFL.
Stock Report
Blake Corum is largely regarded as a day two choice, most likely in the middle or late day two range. With the Bucs having two third-round picks, Corum might be in the mix, and it is a position where they could want to add another player.
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