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Jonathan Brooks is seen by many as the top running back in the NFL draft. Unfortunately, that did not translate into a first-round pick, probably for a few reasons. The majority of teams prefer not to spend high draft capital on a running back, and this year's class didn't have anyone like Bijan Robinson or Jahmyr Gibbs to go in Round 1.
That doesn't take away from how good Brooks is. He's ESPN's 42nd overall prospect and by a wide margin, the best running back prospect as well. That means he likely won't be available for very long.
Assuming someone doesn't beat them to it, there's almost no chance he goes past the Dallas Cowboys, who are picking 56th. That may necessitate a trade-up, but Jerry Jones loves the Texas running back. Jones said via Sports Illustrated:
"In 30 years, I thought it was the best interview I've ever had with a player. (Brooks) is outstanding. We got him high, high, high (on our board). He’s a good player."
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Tonight will determine whether or not the team actually comes away with him, but they might have him higher than most. They may need to fork over some assets to get him, but he fits a big need and is evidently someone they like.
Who is Jonathan Brooks?
Jonathan Brooks is a running back out of Texas, coming from the same school as Bijan Robinson last year. Both were the top backs in their respective classes. Brooks finally broke through in 2023, leading him to become the top draft prospect in his position.
Brooks stands six feet even, weighs 216 pounds and is just 20 years old. He did unfortunately have ACL surgery last year, but the Cowboys' team doctor helped with the procedure, so the team should be at least as knowledgeable about his health as anyone.
Brooks has stellar vision and runs very well between the tackles, something the Cowboys have been missing. Tony Pollard was not as good inside the tackles as Ezekiel Elliott was before him, so the Cowboys could patch up their run game easily with the selection of Brooks.
