Michigan’s star running back Blake Corum is set to miss spring practice after suffering a knee injury during the 2022 season, Michigan head coach Jim Harbaugh confirmed on Thursday. Corum, who was a Heisman Trophy contender, suffered the injury in a game against Illinois on November 19 and later underwent surgery.

Harbaugh confirmed that Corum is expected to make a full recovery and return to full strength in June. After rushing for 1,463 yards and 18 touchdowns last fall, Corum decided to return for his fourth season at Michigan, which is coming off of consecutive Big Ten titles and College Football Playoff appearances.

“Compare us to perfect and we’re going to come up short,” Harbaugh said of the atmosphere within the program. “Compare us to any program, it doesn’t get any better.”

Offensive linemen Myles Hinton and Drake Nugent, both transfers from Stanford, will be limited this spring after offseason surgeries. Michigan will have to adjust without the star running back and two limited offensive linemen this spring.

Turbulence at Michigan

Since losing to TCU in the College Football Playoff semifinal round, Michigan has endured some turbulence. They recently fired co-offensive coordinator Matt Weiss after a university investigation discovered that he had inappropriately accessed computers at Schembechler Hall. Harbaugh promoted co-offensive coordinator Sherrone Moore to offensive coordinator and elevated analyst Kirk Campbell to fill Weiss’ other role as quarterbacks coach.

Furthermore, Harbaugh has an ongoing NCAA investigation over alleged violations during the COVID-19 recruiting dead period. Harbaugh could face a multigame suspension if found guilty of a Level I violation. Despite the investigation, Harbaugh is confident in the program.

NFL interest for Harbaugh, coaching staff

Harbaugh had been linked with two NFL coaching jobs, but he has remained loyal to Michigan, and his focus remains on the college football program. Michigan defensive coordinator Jesse Minter is reportedly a candidate for the Philadelphia Eagles coordinator job.

“It’s an ongoing thing. Something we treat as a really positive thing that NFL teams have an interest in all our personnel,” Harbaugh said.

Michigan’s Spring Practice

On the field, Harbaugh has been impressed by defensive back Amorion Walker, who was a receiver before converting to defense. “I consider him a starter right now,” Harbaugh said. Despite the absence of Corum and two limited offensive linemen, Michigan’s spring practice will continue as they prepare for the upcoming college football season.

Michigan has been successful under Harbaugh, with two Big Ten titles and playoff appearances in the last two seasons. The Wolverines will look to continue their success without their star running back for the spring game. The return of Blake Corum at full strength will give the team a boost ahead of the season opener.