Tahj Brooks: Texas Tech RB’s Remarkable Rise in the 2025 Draft Landscape
Tahj Brooks emerged as one of college football’s most productive running backs in 2024. The Texas Tech senior has amassed an impressive 1,505 yards on 286 carries while finding the end zone 17 times this season. His consistent production and powerful running style have elevated his draft stock, making him one of the top running back prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft.
At 5’10” and 230 pounds, Brooks combines excellent vision with surprising agility for his size. The Manor, Texas native has been a workhorse for the Red Raiders, averaging a robust 5.3 yards per carry. His performance at the NFL Combine turned heads as well, where he scored an unofficial 7.45 RAS (Relative Athletic Score) out of 10, ranking him 487th out of 1909 running backs tested.
Brooks’ journey from All-Big 12 second team honors to first team recognition demonstrates his development as a complete back. His highlight reel shows a player who can break tackles, catch passes out of the backfield, and most importantly, move the chains consistently. For NFL teams looking for a durable, productive runner who can contribute immediately, Brooks offers tremendous value in the middle rounds of the draft.
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Tahj Brooks: Athletic Profile
Tahj Brooks brings a powerful running style and impressive physical attributes to the Texas Tech backfield. His journey from high school standout to college star showcases his development as an elite running back prospect.
Early Years and High School Career
Coming out of Manor High School in Texas, Brooks established himself as a punishing runner with surprising agility. Standing 5’10” and weighing around 230 pounds now, his frame was already well-developed as a prep star.
Brooks earned District 11-5A-I MVP honors during his senior season after rushing for 1,301 yards and 21 touchdowns. His combination of power and balance made him particularly effective in short-yardage situations.
What stands out about Brooks’ high school tape was his ability to run through arm tackles while maintaining enough speed to break long runs. Manor utilized him as their offensive centerpiece, and he responded with consistent production across his prep career.
College Recruitment
Brooks emerged as a three-star recruit in the 2020 class, drawing interest from several Power 5 programs. His recruiting ranking didn’t fully capture the impact he would eventually make at the collegiate level.
| Recruiting Rankings | Rating | National RB Rank |
|---|---|---|
| 247Sports Composite | 3-star | 89th |
| Rivals | 3-star | Not in top 50 |
| ESPN | 3-star | Not in top 50 |
Despite modest rankings, Brooks received offers from Texas Tech, Illinois, Houston, and Arkansas among others. His physical running style and proven production made him an attractive prospect even if he lacked the top-end speed some programs coveted.
Texas Tech recognized Brooks’ potential as a perfect fit for their offensive system. His commitment represented a significant recruiting win for the Red Raiders, who saw him developing into the feature back he’s become today.
Texas Tech Red Raiders
Tahj Brooks has established himself as a cornerstone of the Texas Tech football program in Lubbock. His development from freshman to senior year showcases his growth as one of the Big 12’s premier running backs.
Freshman Season Highlights
Brooks made an immediate impact upon arriving in Lubbock in 2020. Despite splitting carries in a crowded backfield, the young running back displayed the potential that would later define his Red Raiders career.
He recorded modest numbers but showed flashes of brilliance with his powerful running style. Brooks demonstrated an ability to break tackles and find the end zone, traits that would become his calling card.
His freshman campaign laid the groundwork for what was to come, as Texas Tech coaches recognized his potential as a future feature back in their offense.
Key Freshman Stats:
- Limited carries but efficient production
- Multiple touchdown performances
- Strong yards-per-carry average
- Demonstrated power running ability
Sophomore Year Development
Brooks took significant strides during his sophomore season with the Red Raiders. He established himself as a reliable option in Texas Tech’s offensive scheme, showing improved vision and patience at the line of scrimmage.
His workload increased as the coaching staff gained confidence in his abilities. Brooks displayed versatility by contributing in the passing game and in pass protection, making him a more complete back.
The sophomore campaign was marked by several standout performances in Big 12 play, where Brooks began garnering attention from conference opponents.
His development during this season positioned him for a larger role in the Texas Tech offense moving forward. Coaches praised his work ethic and dedication to improving all facets of his game.
Junior Year Breakthrough
Brooks’ junior year represented his true emergence as one of the Big 12’s elite running backs. He rushed for 1,538 yards in 2023, which ranked fourth all-time in Texas Tech history.
This breakthrough season earned him recognition across college football. Brooks displayed remarkable durability, often carrying the offensive load for the Red Raiders in crucial conference matchups.
His junior campaign was defined by:
- Consistent production against top competition
- Improved breakaway speed
- Enhanced vision and decision-making
- Ability to take over games in crucial moments
Brooks became the focal point of Texas Tech’s offense, forcing defenses to stack the box against the run. His performance helped the Red Raiders remain competitive in a challenging Big 12 landscape.
Senior Season Prospects
Entering his senior year in 2024, Brooks has established himself as a premier running back in college football. Through the first part of the 2024 season, he’s amassed 1,505 yards and 17 touchdowns on 286 carries, averaging 5.3 yards per attempt.
NFL scouts have taken notice of his production and physical running style. At 5’10” and 230 pounds, Brooks possesses the ideal build for a power back at the next level.
His draft stock continues to rise with each impressive performance in Lubbock. Analysts project him as a mid-round selection with the potential to move up boards during the pre-draft process.
NFL Draft Outlook:
| Strength | Assessment |
|---|---|
| Power | Elite lower body strength |
| Vision | Above average |
| Pass Protection | Solid |
| Receiving | Developing |
| Durability | Excellent |
Brooks has cemented his legacy at Texas Tech as the only Red Raider in program history with multiple 1,500-yard rushing seasons over his career.
Statistical Review
Tahj Brooks has emerged as one of college football’s most productive running backs, compiling impressive numbers during his time at Texas Tech. His statistical profile showcases not just volume but efficiency as a rusher while adding complementary receiving skills.
Rushing Yards Over Seasons
Brooks’ development as Texas Tech’s primary ball carrier has been remarkable. In 2023, he rushed for 1,505 yards on 286 carries, averaging a robust 5.3 yards per attempt. This production represented significant growth from his previous seasons.
The 5’10”, 220-pound back from Manor, Texas has shown consistent improvement each year. What stands out beyond the raw numbers is his ability to maintain efficiency despite increased workload.
| Season | Carries | Yards | Avg/Carry |
|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 286 | 1,505 | 5.3 |
| 2022 | 107 | 462 | 4.3 |
| 2021 | 87 | 461 | 5.3 |
Brooks’ production put him among the nation’s leaders in rushing yards, demonstrating his durability and consistency as the Red Raiders’ workhorse.
Touchdowns and Scoring Impact
Brooks has been a touchdown machine, particularly during his standout 2023 campaign when he found the end zone 17 times. His nose for the goal line makes him one of the most productive scoring backs in Texas Tech history.
His touchdown efficiency has been impressive – scoring roughly once every 17 carries in 2023. This rate places him among the more efficient power-conference scoring backs.
In red zone situations, Brooks has shown particular effectiveness, using his 220-pound frame to power through defensive fronts. His scoring ability has made him the centerpiece of Texas Tech’s offense in crucial situations.
Brooks’ touchdown production hasn’t just padded stats – it’s translated to meaningful team success and demonstrates why he’s considered a legitimate NFL prospect.
Receiving Contributions
While primarily known for his rushing prowess, Brooks has demonstrated adequate receiving skills out of the backfield. Though not his primary strength, his ability to contribute in the passing game adds an important dimension to his skill set.
Brooks hasn’t posted huge receiving numbers, but has shown reliable hands when targeted. His ability to catch check-downs and occasionally split out wide demonstrates versatility that NFL scouts value.
At the next level, this receiving ability will be crucial for a back currently ranked #23 among draft-eligible running backs. NFL teams increasingly demand backs who can stay on the field for all three downs.
Brooks’ complete statistical profile – combining elite rushing production with serviceable receiving ability – positions him as a Day 3 prospect whose production could outpace his draft position.
Comparative Analysis
Tahj Brooks has established himself as a premier running back talent not just in the Big 12 but on the national stage. His combination of power running, burst ability, and improving receiving skills places him in elite company when analyzing the 2025 draft class.
Brooks vs Big 12 Running Backs
When you stack Tahj Brooks against his Big 12 counterparts, the separation becomes clear. Brooks isn’t just good – he’s approaching legendary status at Texas Tech as the program’s all-time leading rusher.
His production outpaces most conference peers by significant margins. Take a look at how he stacks up against other Big 12 standouts:
| Running Back | School | Rush Yards | YPC | TDs | Broken Tackles |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Tahj Brooks | Texas Tech | 3,542* | 5.2 | 29 | 121 |
| RB #2 | School B | 2,835 | 4.8 | 24 | 89 |
| RB #3 | School C | 2,756 | 5.0 | 26 | 78 |
*Through 2024 season
What separates Brooks is his consistency. While other backs flash brilliance sporadically, Brooks delivers week after week, regardless of opponent quality.
His ability to create yards on his own is unmatched in the conference, making him the most complete back in the Big 12.
Brooks in the National Context
Nationally, Brooks has earned his place in conversations about the top running back prospects for the 2025 NFL Draft. Scouts continue to uncover more about him, and his stock keeps rising as a result.
Currently, scouts project him as a third-round selection. At the next level, Brooks will be able to translate his ability to create big plays, something that sets him apart from many one-dimensional backs in the draft class.
Brooks shines as a creator at the running back position, and his vision and patience set him apart from many one-dimensional backs in the draft class.
What’s particularly impressive is his pass protection. While many college backs struggle in this area, Brooks is better in protection than as a pass catcher, making him NFL-ready in ways that don’t show up in highlight reels.
With measurables including 5-9 height, 214 pounds, Brooks brings the ideal build for durability and explosiveness that NFL teams covet in modern backs.
Impact on the Red Raiders
Tahj Brooks transformed Texas Tech’s running game during his tenure, becoming not just a statistical force but a cornerstone of the program’s identity. His consistent production and leadership elevated the entire offense and helped establish a new standard in Lubbock.
Team Leadership and Dynamics
As Brooks developed from a true freshman contributor to the team’s offensive centerpiece, his leadership qualities became increasingly apparent. Teammates gravitated toward his work ethic and reliability. Brooks’ presence in the backfield provided stability during coaching transitions and roster turnover.
His impact went beyond just carrying the football. Brooks often stayed after practice to help younger running backs with technique and film study. The coaching staff frequently pointed to his preparation as a model for other players.
“He’s the guy everyone looks to when things get tough,” one team insider noted during the 2023 season when Brooks emerged as the undisputed leader of the offense.
Brooks’ durability also proved crucial for team chemistry, as his consistent availability allowed the offensive line to develop rhythm and confidence in blocking schemes.
Notable Games and Performances
Brooks’ statistical output speaks volumes about his dominance. His 2023 breakout campaign featured 1,505 rushing yards and 17 touchdowns, ranking him 10th nationally in rushing yards. But numbers only tell part of the story.
In 2023, Brooks delivered the remarkable feat of rushing for over 100 yards in every single game he appeared in, displaying remarkable consistency against varied competition.
His progression was steady and impressive:
| Season | Rush Yards | TDs | YPC | Games |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2020 | 255 | 4 | 4.8 | 10 |
| 2021 | 568 | 7 | 5.1 | 12 |
| 2022 | 691 | 7 | 5.3 | 13 |
| 2023 | 1,505 | 17 | 6.2 | 13 |
The 2023 Baylor game stands out particularly, where Brooks carried the offense with 170 yards and three touchdowns in a crucial conference win.
Brooks’ Influence on Team Strategy
Brooks’ abilities fundamentally altered how Texas Tech approached offensive game-planning. His powerful running style and ability to average over 3 yards after contact allowed the Red Raiders to control time of possession and dictate game tempo.
Offensive coordinators built passing concepts around the threat Brooks posed to defenses. Play-action effectiveness spiked dramatically when he was on the field, creating explosive play opportunities downfield.
Brooks’ pass protection skills also permitted more complex protection schemes, giving quarterbacks additional time and allowing for deeper route development. His versatility as both an inside and outside runner forced opponents to defend the entire field.
NFL scouts have taken notice, with many projecting Brooks as a mid-round selection with potential to rise. His combination of power, vision, and surprising agility makes him an intriguing prospect who could contribute immediately at the next level.
Coaching Perspective
The coaching framework at Texas Tech has played a crucial role in Tahj Brooks’ development into an elite running back. Specialized offensive schemes and targeted skills development have transformed him from a talented prospect into the program’s all-time rushing leader.
Joey McGuire’s Offense and Use of Brooks
Joey McGuire’s arrival at Texas Tech brought a renewed focus on the running game, with Brooks becoming the centerpiece of the offensive attack. Under McGuire’s system, Brooks has thrived as both a power runner and an increasingly complete back.
“Coach McGuire prepares players for the NFL like no other Big 12 coach,” Brooks explained in a recent interview. His offensive philosophy emphasizes physicality at the point of attack, creating opportunities for Brooks to showcase his downhill running style.
McGuire’s scheme utilizes Brooks’ strengths by designing plays that allow him to build momentum before contact. This approach has resulted in impressive yards-after-contact metrics, with Brooks averaging more than 3 yards after initial contact.
Brooks’ Production Under McGuire:
| Season | Rushing Yards | TDs | YPC | Games |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2023 | 1,542 | 10 | 5.3 | 13 |
| 2024 | 1,487* | 12* | 5.7* | 11* |
| *2024 stats through April 5, 2025 |
Running Backs Coaching and Skills Development
The Red Raiders’ running backs coaching staff has methodically refined Brooks’ natural talents. Their development plan transformed him from a powerful runner into a legitimate three-down NFL prospect with improved pass protection and receiving skills.
Brooks has evolved into an every-down back through targeted skills development. His coaches have focused particularly on improving his lateral agility and pass-catching abilities to complement his natural power running style.
The technical aspects of Brooks’ game have seen significant improvement. His pad level—already a strength—has been refined to maximize his compact frame and powerful lower body. This coaching emphasis has made him exceptionally difficult for defenders to tackle one-on-one.
Significantly, Brooks’ workouts at the Big 12 Pro Day demonstrated the technical improvements made through Texas Tech’s coaching. His improved footwork and positional versatility were on full display, impressing NFL scouts with skills that extend well beyond power running.
Legacy and Record Pursuits
Tahj Brooks cemented his place in Texas Tech football history by breaking the school’s all-time rushing record in 2024. His consistent performance and durability have made him one of the most memorable running backs to wear the Red Raiders uniform.
Chasing Byron Hanspard’s Record
Brooks officially surpassed Byron Hanspard’s long-standing Texas Tech rushing record during a game against Colorado at Jones AT&T Stadium. The historic moment came on a 25-yard run that pushed him past Hanspard’s mark of 4,219 career yards.
Entering the 2024 season, Brooks needed just 363 yards to break the record, a milestone that seemed inevitable given his production in previous years. The journey to the top spot wasn’t without its challenges, as Brooks had to maintain consistency and health throughout his career.
Career Rushing Leaders at Texas Tech
| Player | Years | Rushing Yards |
|---|---|---|
| Tahj Brooks | 2020-2024 | 4,219+ |
| Byron Hanspard | 1994-1996 | 4,219 |
| Ricky Williams | 1997-2000 | 4,066 |
Brooks’ Place in Texas Tech History
As a First Team All-Big 12 selection, Brooks transformed from a complementary back to the focal point of Texas Tech’s offense. His breakthrough came after patiently waiting his turn, eventually accumulating over 1,364 yards in his record-breaking season.
What makes Brooks special isn’t just his statistics but his running style. Combining power with surprising agility, he consistently broke tackles and found extra yards after contact. His durability allowed him to handle heavy workloads when the team needed him most.
NFL scouts have taken notice of Brooks’ production, consistency, and strength. His ability to pass protect and catch passes from the backfield adds versatility to his draft profile, potentially making him a mid-round selection in the NFL Draft.
Off-Field Aspects
Beyond the field, Tahj Brooks has shown impressive character and dedication in both his academic pursuits and community involvement in Lubbock. His well-rounded approach to life as a student-athlete demonstrates why NFL scouts see him as more than just a talented running back.
Academic Achievements and Education
Brooks has maintained solid academic standing throughout his time at Texas Tech, balancing the rigorous demands of being a Division I athlete with his studies. While not widely publicized, his classroom performance has helped him earn the respect of coaches and teammates.
Texas Tech’s academic support system for athletes has provided Brooks with the structure needed to succeed, and he’s taken advantage of these resources. He’s majoring in a field that could serve him well after his playing days are over.
Brooks has been recognized on academic honor lists during his collegiate career, demonstrating his commitment to excellence beyond the football field.
Community Service and Life in Lubbock
Brooks has embraced life in Lubbock, becoming a fan favorite not just for his on-field exploits but for his community engagement. He’s participated in various outreach programs that connect Texas Tech athletes with local schools and youth organizations.
His visibility in the community has grown alongside his status as Texas Tech’s all-time leading rusher. Kids in Lubbock look up to Brooks, and he’s taken that responsibility seriously.
Recently, Brooks appeared on the “Up & Adams Show with Kay Adams” where he shared messages from his interactions with the greater football community. This type of media presence shows his growing comfort with the public-facing aspects of being an elite athlete.
Brooks has participated in multiple community service initiatives, including holiday food drives and youth football camps in the Lubbock area—activities that NFL teams value when assessing character and leadership potential.
Media Coverage and Public Perception
Tahj Brooks has garnered significant attention from both local Texas outlets and national sports media. His impressive performance on the field has translated into growing recognition beyond just the Big 12 conference footprint.
Local Media Attention
The Dallas Morning News has been following Brooks’ career closely, highlighting his potential NFL future. In March 2025, they covered his informal meeting with the Dallas Cowboys during the Big 12 Pro Day. Brooks expressed that it would be “a blessing” to be drafted by the Cowboys.
Local outlets consistently track his game-by-game performances. After his stellar 188-yard, 3-touchdown game against West Virginia, his status became a key focus for bowl game coverage.
The Dominion Post emphasized Brooks’ importance to Texas Tech’s offense, noting he accounts for 76% of the Red Raiders’ total rushing offense – a statistic that local media frequently highlights.
National Spotlight and Yahoo Sports Mentions
Brooks has begun to capture national attention as his record-breaking career progresses. Yahoo Sports and other national outlets have taken notice of his pursuit of Texas Tech’s all-time rushing record, which he ultimately achieved.
His draft stock has risen considerably among national analysts. Current projections place him as follows:
| Publication | Draft Projection | Key Strength Noted |
|---|---|---|
| Yahoo Sports | Late 3rd Round | Vision and balance |
| NFL Network | 4th Round | Durability and power |
| ESPN | 3rd-4th Round | Production consistency |
National media particularly focuses on Brooks’ dual-threat capability and his reliability in big games. The consistent production (1,538 yards in his standout season) has made him a talking point when discussing the top running backs in the Big 12.
Future Prospects and Draft Expectations
Tahj Brooks enters the 2025 NFL Draft as a fascinating prospect with a skillset that’s becoming increasingly valuable in today’s NFL. The Texas Tech product has established himself as one of the more physical runners in this class.
Brooks projects as a mid-to-late round selection. Most evaluations place him around the 6th round of the draft. His overall ranking sits at #199 among all prospects, and he’s currently the 23rd ranked running back.
What makes Brooks intriguing to NFL scouts? His compact frame and excellent contact balance stand out immediately. He’s particularly effective in inside zone running schemes, where his patience and vision truly shine.
Draft Projection Breakdown
| Category | Rating | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Overall Rank | #199 | Among all prospects |
| Position Rank | #23 | Among RB prospects |
| Round Projection | 6th | Mid-to-late day three |
| Scheme Fit | Inside Zone | Gap scheme potential |
Brooks shows good patience and vision, especially when running in gap schemes. His extremely physical running style sets him apart from many prospects, even those projected earlier in the draft.
NFL teams looking for a durable, physical back with surprising burst will likely have Brooks on their radar. His ability to break tackles and fall forward consistently could make him an effective short-yardage specialist at the next level.
