The NFL Draft kicks off on Thursday, April 25. We take a look at Texas running back Jonathon Brooks, a well-rounded player with very few holes in his game.
Brooks was rated a four-star recruit by 247 Sports coming out of high school. He decided to stay in his home state and sign with Texas. In his final season at Texas, he earned All-Big 12 Second Team honors and was also a semifinalist for the Doak Walker Award.
During his time in Austin, Brooks compiled a career total of 1,479 rushing yards on 238 carries for an average of 6.2 yards per carry. He also tallied 16 career rushing touchdowns while contributing an additional 335 yards and two touchdowns as a receiver. He was stuck behind some talented backs like Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson until his third and final season but excelled when given a starting role. This past season, before tearing his ACL, he totaled 1,139 rushing yards on 187 carries for an average of 6.1 YPC. Brooks also added 10 rushing touchdowns to his 2023 stat line.
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Jonathon Brooks, Texas, Running back
Name: Jonathon Brooks
Jersey: No. 24
Position: Running Back
School: Texas
Class: Redshirt Sophomore
Height: 6-foot
Weight: 216 lbs.
Jonathon Brooks’ Strengths
Brooks is a very smooth and explosive runner who also displays excellent patience. He has an electric burst when he gets downhill while also showing good lateral movement when going side to side. Brooks is very patient as a runner. He allows time for his blocks to set up and follows his lead guy through the hole. While he is good at staying within the play, Brooks also knows when to adjust to an L upfront or hit the backside hole. He uses his smooth feet to make guys miss and make quick cuts for extra yards. Brooks also knows when to take what the defense gives him and finish the run strong.
More than capable as a receiver, he isn’t a featured part of the passing game but shows solid hands and looks comfortable catching the ball. Brooks also shows willingness in pass protection. He is always looking for work and can more than hold his own. He tends to throw the shoulder at times instead of firing his hands, but the effort is there.
Jonathon Brooks’ Weaknesses
A very complete back but lacks the breakaway speed to be a home run threat. He can burst through the hole but lacks the long speed to separate from the pack and score. While his patience as a runner is admirable, he will have to adjust to the speed of the pro game. Rehab seems to be on schedule, but a season-ending ACL tear is a concern.
Draft Projection: Day 2 Pick
Brooks isn’t the home run threat or dynamic weapon you look for in the first round, but he is a very efficient runner who can get the job done on every down. He has a good initial burst through the hole and runs with patience and great vision. His contributions when catching the ball and or blocking in pass protection make him a very strong overall prospect.
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