BREAKING NEWS: Texas Tech Red Raiders Announce the Return of Running Back Tahj Brooks for 2025 Season
In an exciting turn of events, the Texas Tech Red Raiders have officially announced the return of standout running back Tahj Brooks for the 2025 season, sending a wave of enthusiasm through the Texas Tech football program and its fanbase. Brooks, who has become a key figure in the Red Raiders’ offensive lineup, will once again be donning the scarlet and black after a highly anticipated decision to return for his final year of eligibility.
This announcement comes after a season of speculation and uncertainty about whether Brooks would enter the NFL Draft or remain in college for another run with Texas Tech. However, the decision to return is one that will undoubtedly have a major impact on the Red Raiders’ offense and their chances of competing in the competitive Big 12 Conference in 2025.
A Brief Overview of Tahj Brooks’ Career at Texas Tech
Tahj Brooks has been a significant contributor to Texas Tech’s football program since stepping onto the field. Hailing from Louisville, Texas, Brooks originally came to Texas Tech as a highly touted running back out of high school, and he lived up to the hype. Known for his combination of speed, power, and vision, Brooks wasted little time making his presence felt in Lubbock.
In his first season with the Red Raiders in 2021, Brooks made an immediate impact, showcasing his potential with several explosive performances. His ability to break tackles and stretch plays down the field earned him a prominent role in Texas Tech’s backfield. By his sophomore season in 2022, Brooks had firmly established himself as one of the premier running backs in the Big 12.
In 2023, Brooks took his game to another level, amassing over 1,000 rushing yards and becoming a vital piece of the Red Raiders’ offensive game plan. His vision and patience in finding running lanes, coupled with his physicality as a runner, made him one of the most difficult backs to stop in the conference. Brooks also showed an ability to contribute in the passing game, making him a versatile threat that defenses had to account for at all times.
Brooks’ 2023 campaign was a key factor in Texas Tech’s offensive success, helping lead them to a successful season. With his skill set and leadership, Brooks has become one of the most respected players on the team, earning the trust of both his coaching staff and his teammates.
The Decision to Return: A Boost for Texas Tech
The decision by Tahj Brooks to return for his senior season is a massive boost for the Red Raiders, as the program looks to continue its growth under head coach Joey McGuire. With an already strong offense in place, the return of Brooks solidifies the running back position and gives Texas Tech a dynamic weapon to complement its passing game.
Brooks has the potential to be one of the top running backs in the country in 2025. With another year to refine his game and showcase his skills on a national stage, he could very well position himself as a top prospect for the 2026 NFL Draft. That said, the decision to return was not solely driven by individual aspirations. For Brooks, the chance to continue building the Red Raiders’ program and work toward winning a Big 12 championship appears to be a key motivator as well.
“I’m excited to come back and finish what we started,” Brooks said in a statement released by Texas Tech. “There’s a lot of unfinished business here, and I believe in the direction we’re heading. The coaches, the team, and the fans have all been incredibly supportive, and I’m ready to put it all on the line for them. I’m focused on helping this team win and doing whatever I can to contribute to our success in 2025.”
Brooks’ leadership and decision to return for another year will serve as a catalyst for Texas Tech’s offense. With his experience, toughness, and leadership qualities, Brooks will play a key role in mentoring younger players, particularly those in the running back room. His knowledge of the game and his work ethic are qualities that will elevate the entire team, and his presence will be felt on and off the field.
What Does Brooks’ Return Mean for the Texas Tech Offense?
Brooks’ return is significant not just for the Red Raiders’ rushing attack, but for the entire offense. In 2025, Texas Tech will look to continue to evolve under coach Joey McGuire, who has already made strides in turning the program into a consistent contender in the Big 12. McGuire has built a culture of toughness and competitiveness, and the return of Brooks exemplifies the commitment to taking the program to the next level.
As a versatile back, Brooks offers the Red Raiders an all-around weapon. His ability to run between the tackles, bounce outside, and catch passes out of the backfield makes him difficult for defenses to plan for. The Red Raiders will look to use Brooks in a variety of ways, helping to open up opportunities for the passing game and making the offense even more unpredictable. With the emergence of quarterback Behren Morton and a growing receiving corps, having a dynamic running back like Brooks gives Texas Tech a well-balanced offense that will challenge opposing defenses.
Brooks will also help take pressure off the passing game. With defenses having to account for his ability to break off big runs, it opens up more opportunities for the Red Raiders’ quarterbacks to find favorable matchups in the passing game. This balanced offensive attack will allow Texas Tech to control the tempo of games, wear down opposing defenses, and consistently move the ball down the field.
The Big 12 and National Implications
Brooks’ return also positions Texas Tech as a strong contender in the Big 12 Conference. As one of the premier running backs in the conference, Brooks is a game-changer who can make a difference in every contest. The Big 12 is known for its high-scoring affairs and offensive firepower, and Brooks will give the Red Raiders a key weapon to match up against other top teams.
With Texas Tech having already established itself as a competitive program under McGuire, the addition of Brooks for another season makes the Red Raiders a legitimate threat to win the Big 12 championship in 2025. Brooks’ leadership, combined with the strong talent surrounding him, gives Texas Tech the potential to contend with other heavyweights in the conference, including Texas, Oklahoma State, and Kansas State.
On a national scale, Brooks’ return will also provide him with another chance to showcase his skills on a larger stage, which could increase his visibility among NFL scouts. If Brooks has another standout season in 2025, he could be one of the top running back prospects heading into the 2026 NFL Draft.
Conclusion: A Bright Future Ahead for Texas Tech
Tahj Brooks’ decision to return to Texas Tech for the 2025 season is a thrilling development for the Red Raiders and their fans. His return solidifies the team’s offense and adds another dynamic piece to an already exciting unit. With Brooks leading the way, Texas Tech will enter the 2025 season with high hopes and expectations, looking to build on their successes and chase after a Big 12 title.
For Brooks, the opportunity to return for another season is a chance to solidify his legacy at Texas Tech, elevate his game to new heights, and prepare for a potential future in the NFL. But most importantly, he’ll have the opportunity to make an impact on the field and contribute to a program that is on the rise.
The road ahead for Texas Tech is filled with promise, and with Tahj Brooks back in the fold, the Red Raiders are poised for an exciting 2025 season.
