ANN ARBOR: Blake Corum’s impending NFL decision was not very unclear after Michigan defeated Washington on Monday to cap off a 15-0 season and win the national championship.
However, it’s official now. In a touching video that was shared on social media on Sunday, the senior running back—who graduates as the program’s all-time leader in rushing touchdowns with 59—announced that he is going to declare for the 2024 draft. He also leaves with 3,737 rushing yards.
“Thank you for being the best fans ever,my four years here have come to an end, but I’m forever grateful for the memories we created. When I got hurt last year, I came back and promised y’all I will bring a national championship home. That’s what Team 144 did.
“As I have always stated, my purpose is to give back, but football is my passion.” Please remember me as a great Michigan man who made an impact both on and off the field, rather than as the guy who broke long runs and scored 59 touchdowns. I’m going, but I won’t be gone for very long. I want to leave you with some memories that you will always cherish. Michigan will always be my home. We had unfinished business at this time last year, but I can now declare that it is resolved.
Corum, a Virginia native and former four-star recruit, was a pillar of Michigan’s most successful three-year run in program history, culminating with Michigan’s first national championship since 1997.
The 5-foot-8, 213-pound player missed the national semifinal loss to TCU due to a knee injury he sustained late in the previous season, which derailed his Heisman Trophy quest. Corum was once again the engine of the Wolverines’ attack after he made the decision to return for his senior year rather than enter the NFL draft after consulting with his family.
He smashed the single-season rushing touchdown record with 27, including four in the College Football Playoffs. However, he will also be recognized for his volunteerism in the neighborhood. He organizes yearly drives for toys and turkeys during the holidays and donates his name, image, and likeness to support charitable causes.
Corum is ranked as the fourth-best running back available in the 2024 draft by ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr.
“Some people might call it a risk, but I just call it God’s plan,” Corum told MLive outside Michigan’s locker room Monday night. It means a lot to be able to return and carry out my promises to you. It matters even more to come out on top. To be a Wolverine is truly such a blessing.
