The Dallas Cowboys face a pivotal decision in the upcoming NFL Draft, especially in filling the void left by the dynamic Tony Pollard. With Pollard’s off-season departure, the team has been left with Royce Freeman as their primary solution — a move that hasn’t quite lived up to expectations.
Consequently, the focus has intensified on securing a worthy replacement, with Texas native Jonathan Brooks emerging as a potential, albeit complicated, candidate.
Jonathan Brooks: From Texas Star to NFL Prospect
Before his injury, Jonathan Brooks was on a fast track to becoming one of the leading picks in the NFL Draft. A standout at the University of Texas, Brooks demonstrated his prowess as a powerful running back.
In his junior year, he amassed 1,139 rushing yards and 10 touchdowns on 187 attempts, averaging an impressive 6.1 yards per carry. His ability to contribute in the passing game was equally noteworthy, with 25 receptions for 286 yards and an additional touchdown.
Adam Schefter, ESPN’s Senior NFL insider, highlighted Brooks’ potential in his latest draft roundup, noting that Brooks “likely would have been the top running back selected, possibly in the middle or later portion of Round 1.” However, a torn ACL against TCU on November 11, 2023, has cast doubts on his draft prospects.
Injury Concerns and Draft Implications
The injury has inevitably affected Brooks’ draft stock, with Schefter suggesting that he is now “expected to fall into the second round.” This drop is attributed to concerns over his knee, which teams are wary of despite his high ceiling. Schefter added, “Any team that picks him likely would be getting a discount because of the ailment,” with the Dallas Cowboys seen as a potential landing spot. The connection between Brooks and the Dallas Cowboys is strengthened by his local roots and his demonstrated ability at Texas.
Jonathan Brooks has good vision and power but lacks explosiveness and home run ability. On another note, Xavier Worthy showing very poor run blocking effort here that ultimately kept Texas from scoring on the play. pic.twitter.com/6AtTAlzDWY
— The Draft Board (@draftboardnfl) April 15, 2024
Dallas Cowboys Draft Strategy: Addressing the Running Back Void
With no clear top running back in a class that is generally viewed as subpar at the position, the Dallas Cowboys’ strategy could be pivotal. Daniel Jeremiah of NFL Network ranks Brooks as the No. 57 player overall in the 2024 draft class, just one spot behind the Cowboys’ No. 56 pick. Schefter mused, “Some think it would be a surprise if Brooks made it past Dallas’ turn at No. 56.”
The decision on Brooks represents more than just a draft pick; it’s about whether the Dallas Cowboys believe he can overcome his injuries and realize his pre-injury potential. Choosing Brooks could signal Dallas’ confidence in his recovery and their commitment to harnessing his abilities as Pollard’s successor.
As the draft approaches, all eyes will be on the Dallas Cowboys’ decision-making process, particularly how they evaluate the risk versus reward of drafting a hometown hero with both a promising upside and a concerning injury history. Whether they decide to take a chance on Brooks could very well shape their offense for years to come.
Source: Fansided
