This offseason, the Minnesota Vikings need to cover a number of gaps, butnone more important than quarterback as Kirk Cousins is about to enter free agency. However, Minnesota’s running game, which finished the previous season ranked 29th in yards and 30th in touchdowns, also has to be improved.
The most economical way to do that would be through the draft as the league continues to move away from handing out big contracts to running backs. The Draft Network’s Justin Melo believes they are a “top fit” for Michigan’s Blake Corum.
This season, Corum was electrifying for the Wolverines, according to Melo, who posted on February 15.
Teams in the NFL will value Corum’s nose for the end zone. The Marshall, Virginia native, who is ranked No. 56 overall in our most recent TDN100 update, is a patient and inventive runner who can outwit opponents in confined spaces. Because of his innate spatial awareness, Corum may modify his rush course as needed.
After an incredible senior season at Michigan that includes a national championship triumph, Melo predicts Corum to be a “instant contributor” at the next level.
Compared to his 1,463 yards on the ground in 2022, his 1,245 running yards in 2023 was a decline. On the other hand, Corum led the country in both total (non-quarterback) and running scores (27), adding one more via the air.
Melo said, “Kwesi Adofo-Mensah, general manager of the Vikings, is preparing to sign Justin Jefferson to a record-breaking extension while also sorting through decisions at quarterback.” “The Vikings should be drawn to adding Corum on a four-year, cost-controlled contract.”
If he is not on the roster in 2024, Cousins will count for $28.5 million against the salary cap.
If the Vikings don’t work out a deal with him before his current $35 million, one-year contract ends, that sum goes up.
