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Every NFL Draft unearths hidden gems, players whose journeys and talents captivate evaluators as they search for impact contributors. Jermaine Corbett, a dynamic running back and kick return specialist from Merrimack College, is one of those prospects. Known for his explosive athleticism and versatility, Corbett has emerged as a standout talent at the FCS level, drawing the attention of NFL scouts.
While Corbett may not possess the prototypical size of an NFL running back (5'9", 190 lbs), his densely built frame, powerful lower half, and elite lateral agility more than compensate. Scouts who look past his height will quickly see a playmaker with the ability to thrive at the professional level. With a career defined by consistency and electrifying moments, Corbett has proven himself to be an invaluable weapon on both offense and special teams.
Background
Jermaine Corbett’s football journey has been nothing short of remarkable. A native of Long Branch, New Jersey, Corbett began playing football at the age of six, inspired by his father’s belief in his potential and the influence of his older brother, Dahmiere Willis, who was a standout running back himself. At Long Branch High School, Corbett established himself as a multi-sport athlete, lettering in football, basketball, and track & field, and earning All-State honors three times. His combination of speed, vision, and athleticism made him a local legend.
After high school, Corbett took his talents to Stonehill College, where he quickly became a focal point of their offense. Over two seasons at Stonehill, Corbett rushed for 1,659 yards on 313 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per carry and scoring 18 rushing touchdowns. He also contributed as a receiver, amassing 281 receiving yards on 33 receptions with one touchdown. Corbett had limited special teams opportunities at Stonehill, returning 3 punts for 16 yards and attempting no kick returns during his time with the program.
In 2024, Corbett transferred to Merrimack College and took his game to new heights. As a senior, he rushed for 1,058 yards on 189 carries (5.6 YPC) and scored nine rushing touchdowns. He added 204 receiving yards and one touchdown on 20 receptions. Corbett also made a significant impact on special teams, returning 14 kickoffs for 473 yards (33.8 YPR) and scoring two touchdowns, including a pair of 100-yard returns.
2025 NFL Draft Scouting Report
Strengths
Explosive Playmaking Ability: Corbett’s game-breaking speed and ability to create chunk plays make him a constant threat. His 19% explosive run rate ranked 7th among FCS running backs with at least 150 carries in 2024.
Vision and Patience: Corbett displays excellent vision and patience, allowing plays to develop before decisively attacking the hole. His quick and precise jump cut enables him to evade defenders effortlessly, and his ability to accelerate from 0 to 60 in an instant makes him a nightmare for defenses.
Yards After Contact: Corbett consistently turns small gains into big plays, ranking 16th in FCS with 3.5 yards after contact per attempt among all backs with at least 150 rush attempts. His compact frame and powerful lower half allow him to drive through tackles, amassing 657 yards after contact in 2024.
Versatility: Whether running in zone (68% of carries) or gap schemes (32%), catching passes, or returning kicks, Corbett’s adaptability makes him a valuable chess piece. His 1.54 yards per route run ranked 4th among FCS running backs with 20+ targets.
Pass Protection: Corbett excelled in pass-blocking situations, allowing just one pressure on 54 attempts in 2024. His technique and stout frame make him reliable in protecting the quarterback.
Special Teams Impact: Corbett’s contributions as a kick returner are exceptional, with a 35.9-yard average and two 100-yard kickoff return touchdowns in 2024. His ability to flip field position is game-changing.
Size and Physicality
While listed at 5’9” and 190 lbs., Corbett’s stature belies his strength and durability. He boasts a densely built frame with a powerful lower half, which allows him to absorb contact and maintain balance. His low center of gravity aids his lateral agility, making him elusive in tight spaces. Evaluators may initially raise concerns about his size, but his physical traits and playing style demonstrate he can handle the rigors of the NFL.
2024 Season Highlights
Rushing: 189 carries for 1,058 yards (5.6 YPC) and 9 touchdowns.
Receiving: 20 receptions for 204 yards (10.2 YPR) and 1 touchdown.
Special Teams: 14 kick returns for 503 yards (35.9 YPR), including two 100-yard touchdowns.
Key Performances
Best Rushing Game: 227 yards (Stonehill, 2022 vs. Wagner).
Longest Rushing Touchdown: 74 yards (Stonehill, 2022 vs. Wagner).
Best All-Purpose Game: 163 rushing yards, 100 kick return yards, and 1 touchdown (Merrimack, 2024 vs. Sacred Heart).
NFL Style Comparisons (not a direct comparison, just a playstyle)
Boston Scott (Philadelphia Eagles): Corbett shares Scott’s compact build, lateral agility, and ability to contribute as a runner and receiver.
Cordarrelle Patterson (Atlanta Falcons): His ability to impact games as a return specialist mirrors Patterson’s special teams dominance.
NFL Draft Projection Summary
Ceiling Grade: Corbett has been assigned a ceiling grade of 1.60–1.69 BLESTO Grade range, translating to a 50–54 Football Scout 365 Grade. This places him as a projected late 6th-round pick or priority-free agent, with the potential to develop into a valuable depth option and special teams contributor.
Floor Grade: Corbett’s floor is that of an Undrafted Free Agent, with a BLESTO grade of 2.0, which translates to a Practice Squad or lower-level backup. This corresponds to a Football Scout 365 Grade of <49.
Grade Category: Corbett is categorized as a "Backup Level" player, offering versatility as a depth option. He has the potential to make an immediate impact on special teams and contribute as a situational offensive weapon.
Draft Projection: Corbett is projected to be selected in the late 7th round or signed as an undrafted free agent, depending on team needs and his performance during pre-draft evaluations.
Summary
Jermaine Corbett embodies the essence of a dynamic playmaker. His ability to excel as a rusher, receiver, and return specialist makes him an invaluable asset for NFL teams seeking a versatile and impactful weapon. While he may not possess the prototypical size of a traditional NFL running back, Corbett's impressive production and well-rounded skill set demonstrate that he has what it takes to succeed at the next level. With his blend of explosiveness, adaptability, and determination, Corbett is well-positioned to make a significant impact as a late-round gem or priority-free agent in the 2025 NFL Draft.