Texas Tech senior running back Tahj Brooks discusses 2024 goals

Late in 2023, it looked to all involved as if Texas Tech star running back, Tahj Brooks, would head to the NFL. After all, his 1,500-yard season last fall turned quite a few heads.

However, the Manor, Texas native decided to come back to school and play out the extra year afforded to him by the COVID-19 pandemic. Now, he's on the cusp of breaking the program's all-time rushing record, a mark that has been held by Byron Hanspard since 1996.

Thursday, after two days of fall camp, Brooks met with the media. He was asked what his goals are for 2024 and he revealed that he has set some lofty ones indeed.

"I want to win the Doak Walker Award [given annually to the best running back in college football], that's one of my big aspirations and goals," he said. "Still rush for over at least 10 touchdowns. Be a great teammate. Be a great communicator, leader off the field and on the field."

Of course, there are some tremendous running backs just in the Big 12, each of whom could also challenge for the Doak Walker. That list includes 2023 winner Ollie Gordon II of Oklahoma State, R.J. Harvey of Central Florida, Devin Neal of Kansas, and D.J. Giddens of Kansas State. Brooks was asked what it means to be part of such a talented running back group from the Big 12.

"It means a big amount," he said, "especially to guys in this conference, guys that are trying to win that big trophy come December...Our running back crew, especially in the Big 12 is deep."

Of course, this is Brooks' last ride with Texas Tech. He discussed the emotions that go along with knowing that his time as a Red Raider is short.

"It's sad and happy at the same time," he said. "Because I feel like I've put in so much work for this university, me and my teammates and especially this coaching staff. I've been with these guys for two or three years now and it's just been a blessing for me to come out and just, whatever I've done for this team, and guys keep cheering me on and I'm helping those guys and we're all just one big happy family."

At first glance, it might seem as if Brooks is a finished product, especially after the season he put up last year. However, he has spent the offseason trying to improve in a number of areas.

"My speed," he said. "I feel like, this offseason, just some of my jump-cuts, just making people miss and things like that. So spin moves, jump-cuts, and reading my blockers, getting on the same page as my O-linemen. And then pass protection for sure, that's something you've got to be good at, especially at the next level. You've got to be good on third downs and being an everyday back, you've got to be good in pass protection, use your hands and catch the ball very well, in the slot and in the backfield, so things like that."

One interesting question tossed Brooks' way concerned N.I.L. payments. He was asked if he thought he would have come back to Tech if there were no N.I.L. opportunities and his answer was a bit surprising.

"I didn't play football for the money," he said. "Growing up, that's the only sport I loved...I love the N.I.L. aspect and all but I play football because I love my guys and this team and I want to see this team do the best it can and I feel like this year, we've got a chance to do that."

A recent video about Brooks was posted by the Texas Tech football official account on X. Narrated by Hanspard, it appears to have made an impact on the Red Raider senior.

"It just brings chills," Brooks said. "It's just something I'm striving for, just taking game by game. Something that can really happen."

Brooks needs 1,164 yards to pass Hanspard and sit atop Tech's all-time rushing list. Head coach Joey McGuire has said that the program will get that record for Brooks this year.

If (or likely, when) that mark is toppled, it will be an honor for Brooks. And there couldn't be a better representative of Texas Tech to hold that mark.