Just in: “Sensible Move: Cowboys Could Add Record-Breaking Running Back”
The Dallas Cowboys are in need of a new starting running back for the upcoming 2024 NFL draft. With Tony Pollard leaving for the Tennessee Titans, the current running back room at Dallas is not equipped to handle a starting role. Rico Dowdle, Malik Davis, and Deuce Vaughn combined for a low 112 carries for 401 rushing yards and two touchdowns in the 2023 season, with Davis not even recording a single statistic. However, the Cowboys could add a record-breaking running back in the form of Blake Corum from the University of Michigan.
According to Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox, Corum is one of the “hidden-gem prospects” that the team should be targeting. Knox believes that Corum could give the Dallas Cowboys high-athletic upside and more in the position. Despite being expected to be a Day 3 pick in the draft, Corum possesses the technical skills to read defenses and utilize blocks to his advantage. He has also shown that he can handle a heavy workload, topping 240 carries in each of the last two seasons.
The Cowboys have historically relied on a strong running game, with their success dating back to the 1970s dynasty led by Roger Staubach and Calvin Hill. With the loss of Tony Pollard, who served as Ezekiel Elliott’s backup, they are in need of a new running back to help take some of the workload off of Elliott. While Elliott is still a dominant force, the Cowboys will need to add depth to protect against injuries and allow for Elliott’s longevity in the league.
Corum’s 2023 season with Michigan was impressive, rushing for 1,388 yards and 20 touchdowns on 242 carries. He also averaged 5.7 yards per carry, showing his proficiency in moving the chains. He was named a consensus All-American, as well as a finalist for the Doak Walker Award, which is given to the nation’s top running back.
The 2024 NFL draft is full of talented running backs, but the Cowboys’ need for depth and potential for a starting role make Corum a sensible choice. Drafting a player like Corum not only helps the current team but also sets them up for success in the future if Elliott’s role begins to decrease. The Cowboys have a history of success when it comes to their running game, and adding Corum could help continue that legacy.