On Thursday reports surfaced that star Texas running back Jonathan Brooks would forego his fourth year in Austin and declare for the 2024 NFL Draft. Subsequent to the TCU game in which he tore his ACL, there was a fair amount of hope that Brooks would return to the 40 Acres following surgery and an offseason of rehab. That hope officially ended on Friday with an announcement from Brooks on his social media accounts.
“My 3 years at this University has been an amazing journey, from going 5-7 to making it to the CFP.
I just want to thank God for the opportunity he has blessed me with. I also want to thank all my coaches over the past 3 years, friends and family for molding me into the man I am today. Coach Choice, I can’t thank you enough for believing in me and giving a young kid from Hellettsville, Texas a chance to show the world what he can do. YOU have believed in me when others didn’t. Mad respect.
To my teammates, I appreciate y;all for everything we’ve been through and for never giving up. Y’all will forever be my brothers and I’m always one phone call away. Playing this sport at a high level everyday and competing with y’all was everything a young kid could dream of.
March 28, 2022, the day after 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. Please continue to watch over me, and know I love you forever.
To my Mom and my brother, I’m forever grateful for the support and consistent love that y’all give me. Y’all have been my biggest supporters, and I can’t wait to see what God has in store for both of you.
With that being said I will be doing what I feel is in the best interest for me and my family.
I’m excited to announce that I will be declaring for the 2024 NFL Draft!”
Brooks finished this season with 1,139 yards on 187 carries with 10 touchdowns. Despite the injury, he remains a top draft prospect at his position which is evidenced by him still being the #1 running back on Mel Kiper’s (ESPN) Draft Board.
