Nobody knew the talent the Miami Dolphins had found when they signed Chris Brooks. It is safe to say they do now. Initially, it looked as though Brooks was headed for the practice squad. Somewhat surprisingly, the Dolphins decided to part ways with stalwart Myles Gaskin instead. With Salvon Ahmed inactive against the Denver Broncos, Brooks had the potential to see some playing time. It is safe to say that he made the most of that opportunity.
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Chris Brooks Deserves More Touches In Miami Dolphins Backfield
Chris Brooks’ Performance Against the Broncos
While fellow rookie running back Devon Achane had a monster game (203 yards rushing, four catches for 30 yards, and four total touchdowns), Brooks had the second-highest total average rushing yards in the game (7.3 yards a carry, second only to Raheem Mostert’s 11.3 yards a carry).
Many of the backs on the Dolphins roster are known for their speed, but Brooks is more of a bruising power back. Brooks will likely be used to wear defenses down with his punishing physicality. Additionally, with a complete backfield made up of speed and power, Brooks’ presence also takes the pressure off of Tua Tagovailoa to have to put the ball in the air which lowers the potential for him to be hit like he was last season. Thus, reducing the chances he suffers yet another concussion.
What Could Chris Brooks Mean for the Dolphins?
Brooks adds a new wrinkle which could mean more time in a bigger role for the Dolphins. Of course, playing time is finite, so if he sees a bigger role, somebody else will have to see the bench. The question then becomes of the backs on the roster right now, who will get fewer touches?
The likely answer is Jeff Wilson. Wilson is not a power back per se, nor is he as fast or (arguably) as durable as Mostert and maybe Brooks and Achane. Additionally, with Ahmed being inactive last game, as is the case in sports, sometimes individuals lose their spot on the depth chart or in the starting lineup. Salvon Ahmed may have just seen himself go from second or third on the depth chart to fourth. That will largely depend on when he comes back, and if the Dolphins feel utilizing him over Brooks would be more beneficial.
A Much-Needed Bruising Presence
Chris Brooks continues to prove his naysayers wrong. This writer also was of the mindset Brooks would not make even the Dolphins practice squad. It is safe to say Chris Brooks is proving a lot of people wrong while helping the Dolphins on what has so far been a record-breaking and incredible season. The future for Chris Brooks looks bright, largely due in part to the physical element he adds to the Dolphins running game. Dolphins fans are eager to see the opportunities for Brooks to get more touches and continue to beat up on defenses just like he did last week against the Denver Broncos.
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Main Photo: Jim Rassol – USA Today Sports
