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Texas running back Jonathon Brooks will miss the remainder of the 2023 season with a torn ACL, the program announced on Sunday.
Losing Brooks is a big blow for Texas’ offense. He had established himself as one of the top running backs in the country this season. Brooks’ season ends with 1,139 yards and 10 touchdowns on 187 carries.
“We’re heartbroken for Jonathon,” Texas coach Steve Sarkisian said in a statement. “He was having a fantastic season and leaves a void that needs to be filled. But we know he will continue to be an invaluable leader on our team, helping us prepare as we move forward in our mission this season. I know he will work extremely hard in his recovery, get back to full speed as soon as he can, and we will be there by his side supporting him through all of that.”
If there’s a silver-lining for Texas fans, it’s that this injury may increase the chances that Brooks returns to college next season. He’s eligible for the 2024 NFL Draft, but ESPN’s Pete Thamel reports that Brooks is “likely” to return to UT next season as a result of this injury.
For the rest of this season, Texas could lean more heavily on backup running back CJ Baxter. A true freshman, Baxter is second on the team in rushing yards this season with 390 yards. He’s a former 5-star prospect who figures to be a big part of the Longhorns’ future at the running back position.
Texas will go on the road to face Iowa State this weekend as it looks to lock up a berth in the Big 12 Championship Game.
Spenser is a news editor for Saturday Down South and covers college football across all Saturday Football brands.
