Redshirt sophomore running back Jonathon Brooks has officially declared for the 2024 NFL Draft. Brooks rushed for 1,139 yards in 10 games in 2023 before tearing his ACL against TCU. He ran for 10 touchdowns and averaged over six yards per carry. 

ESPN’s Pete Thamel announced Brooks’ decision on Thursday and Brooks posted a statement on social media this morning. 

“My 3 years at this University has been an amazing journey, from going 5-7 to making it to the CFP,” Brooks said in his statement. “March 28, 2022, the day my father passed away, I questioned if I still wanted to play football anymore. I felt as if I lost a big piece of who I was but then I realized everything we’ve talked about since I was little was right in front of me, and I know you would never let me give up.” 

After a breakout season, Brooks now has the opportunity to honor his late father while playing in the NFL. ESPN NFL Draft insider Mel Kiper has Brooks currently rated as the No. 1 running back in the draft. Brooks told ESPN that he is expecting to be healthy for training camp. 

With Brooks’ high draft projection, he has the potential to follow in the footsteps of former Texas running backs Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson. Robinson was picked eighth overall and Johnson was taken 115th in the 2023 NFL Draft. 

Before he was injured, Brooks had back-to-back 100 yard games. After winning the starting spot after his strong performance against Alabama, he had his season-high performance against Kansas with 218 yards and 2 touchdowns. Now, he has the potential to show his talent in the NFL.