The 2025 NFL Draft kicks off Thursday night in Green Bay. Last Word is here to make the case why one name that currently isn’t on everyone’s radar should be. That is Texas Tech’s standout running back, Tahj Brooks. With a combination of skill, consistency, and leadership, Brooks has proven himself as a player worthy of a first-round selection. Here’s why Brooks deserves to be a first-round pick:
Why Tahj Brooks Deserves to Be a First-Round Pick
Elite Production
Tahj Brooks has been nothing short of phenomenal during his college career. He has amassed over 4,500 rushing yards, making him Texas Tech’s all-time leading rusher. Unfortunately for Red Raiders fans, Brooks broke the record in a losing effort to Deion Sanders’ Colorado team.
His consecutive 1,500-yard rushing seasons in 2023 and 2024 highlight his ability to deliver consistently at an elite level. Ball security was another strength of his during his 5-year career for the Red Raiders. Out of 879 career rushing attempts, Brooks only fumbled the ball six times. Brooks also holds the record for 23 career 100-yard games, including an impressive streak of 11 consecutive games during his final season. Head coach Joey McGuire has a major challenge replacing Brooks’ production this season.
Physical Attributes
Standing at 5’9″ and weighing 214 pounds, Brooks combines a compact frame with excellent contact balance. He resembles a fullback with NFL-RB caliber speed. Brooks’ 4.52 40-yard-dash time at the NFL combine ranks alongside previous combine times of NFL All-Pros like Alvin Kamara (4.56), Derrick Henry (4.54), Nick Chubb (4.52), Dalvin Cook (4.50), and Aaron Jones (4.5). His ability to navigate through tight spaces and break tackles makes him a reliable option in short-yardage situations. He was often ranked as one of the most elusive running backs in college football. According to Pro Football Focus (PFF), Brooks forced the second-most missed tackles in all of college football during the 2024 season.
Versatility and Durability
Tahj Brooks is not just a one-dimensional player. He has showcased his versatility by contributing as a receiver, with 28 receptions for 199 yards in his senior year. Brooks is also an excellent pass blocker. A running back can’t be good at blocking by accident. This illustrates his willingness to pass protect. According to PFF, his 72.6 pass-blocking grade since 2023 ranks second among Power Four running backs and the best among those in this year’s draft. His durability is equally impressive, as he has handled a heavy workload throughout his college career without a decline in his game-to-game performance. In the last 3 seasons, he has only missed one game due to injury.
NFL Potential
Tahj Brooks projects as a workhorse back who can thrive in inside zone schemes. His ability to read gaps and make quick adjustments in traffic will translate well to the professional level. He runs with a similar style to Le’Veon Bell. Brooks will seemingly freeze at the line of scrimmage before quickly darting into an open gap. His physicality and consistency make him a reliable option on early downs, while his pass protection ability allows him to stay in on obvious passing situations.
Tahj Brooks Is Worthy Of Being Selected on Thursday
Tahj Brooks has all the qualities NFL teams look for in a first-round pick: production, versatility, durability, and leadership. His record-breaking college career and strong work ethic make him a player who can contribute immediately at the next level. Yes, there is a notable Heisman finalist that everyone “knows” should go in the first round. However, if teams are looking for a dependable and dynamic running back, NFL General Managers should not overlook Brooks when the draft begins.
Main Photo: Kirby Lee-Imagn Images
