LUBBOCK, TEXAS — In a moment that stunned the college football world and tugged at the heartstrings of Red Raider fans everywhere, Texas Tech’s star running back Tahj Brooks delivered a deeply emotional and heartfelt farewell speech announcing his departure from the team. The announcement came just moments after spring practice concluded, catching teammates, coaches, and fans off guard. But for Brooks, this wasn’t just the end of a chapter — it was a full-circle moment of reflection, gratitude, and legacy.
A Legacy Forged in Grit and Loyalty
Brooks, who joined Texas Tech in 2020, has been a cornerstone of the Red Raiders’ offense for the past four seasons. Known for his power, vision, and relentless determination, he became one of the most reliable and productive backs in the Big 12. In 2023, Brooks rushed for over 1,500 yards, becoming the first Red Raider to surpass that milestone in over two decades and earning All-Big 12 First Team honors. His name will now be forever etched in the Texas Tech history books alongside legends like Byron Hanspard and Bam Morris.
Yet, it was not just his stats that defined Brooks’ time in Lubbock — it was his leadership, loyalty, and the way he carried himself through adversity. Through coaching changes, injuries, and doubters, Brooks remained the soul of the Red Raider locker room. His decision to return for his senior season in 2024, despite being a potential Day 2 NFL Draft pick in 2023, was a testament to his commitment to the program and his teammates.
The Final Speech: A Farewell Filled with Tears, Applause, and Legacy
Standing at midfield in Jones AT&T Stadium with the sun beginning to dip behind the west stands, Brooks gathered the entire team, coaching staff, and a small group of media for what he called “one of the hardest things I’ve ever had to do.” Dressed in his Texas Tech training gear and gripping a folded sheet of paper, he began to speak — voice cracking with emotion from the very first word.
“This place… this place changed my life,” Brooks began, pausing to gather himself. “I came here as a kid from Manor, Texas, just hoping to get a shot. Y’all gave me a home. You gave me family. You gave me a purpose. And for that, I’ll always be grateful.”
Brooks went on to speak about the sacrifices his family made to help him get to this point. He thanked his mother, who worked two jobs to support him; his father, who “never missed a game, not even one”; and his late grandmother, who he said “watched every game from Heaven with a front-row seat.”
“This decision wasn’t easy,” he said. “I’ve prayed on it, talked with my family, my coaches, and my teammates. But after long thought, I’ve decided that it’s time for me to step away and prepare for the next chapter in my life — professionally and personally.”
The field, which had seen countless touchdowns, was now the setting for an outpouring of tears, hugs, and standing ovations. Several teammates — including quarterback Behren Morton and wide receiver Jerand Bradley — were seen openly crying, while Head Coach Joey McGuire stood with his hand over his heart.
What This Means for Texas Tech
Brooks’ departure is a seismic shift for Texas Tech’s football program. He not only carried the bulk of the offensive load but also set the standard in the locker room. His leadership, both vocal and by example, helped usher in a new era of Red Raider football — one centered on unity, belief, and relentlessness.
Coach McGuire, who was present during the speech, later addressed the media:
“Tahj Brooks isn’t just one of the best players to ever wear the Double T — he’s one of the best men to walk through these doors. His work ethic, his passion, his love for this program — those things can’t be taught. We’re going to miss him dearly, but we also know his future is bright.”
McGuire also mentioned that the coaching staff had been preparing for Brooks’ eventual departure and have confidence in the young talent waiting in the wings, including sophomore running back Cam’Ron Valdez and incoming freshman star Malik Goodson.
Fans React: “He Gave Us Everything”
As news of Brooks’ farewell speech spread, social media exploded with tributes from fans, alumni, and former teammates. #ThankYouTahj trended nationwide on X (formerly Twitter), and within hours, a tribute video compiled by Texas Tech’s athletics department had garnered over 1 million views.
Longtime fan Janice Carter, who has attended every home game since 1992, tearfully described the moment:
“I’ve seen a lot of great players come and go, but none of them have the heart that Tahj had. You could just feel it every time he took the field — he gave us everything. Everything.”
What’s Next for Tahj Brooks?
While Brooks has not officially declared for the NFL Draft, it is widely expected that he will begin training for professional workouts and interviews in the coming weeks. NFL scouts have praised his compact frame, physical running style, and ability to pass protect — attributes that could make him a valuable Day 2 or early Day 3 selection.
In his speech, Brooks hinted at the road ahead:
“Whatever happens next, I’m going to take Texas Tech with me. Every yard I gain, every touchdown I score, every goal I reach — it’ll be for all of you.”
He also expressed interest in one day returning to Lubbock in a different capacity, perhaps as a coach or mentor.
“This place raised me. One day, I’d love to come back and give the next generation what y’all gave me.”
Final Words: A Warrior’s Goodbye
As the sun finally set and the field lights began to flicker on, Brooks stood quietly for a moment, soaking in the scene. He hugged every teammate. He signed autographs for the few fans who had trickled in after hearing about the moment. He walked the sidelines one last time.
Before leaving the field, he turned around and whispered to no one in particular — but maybe to the spirit of the game itself:
“I’ll always be a Red Raider. Forever.”
And with that, Tahj Brooks exited the stadium — a legend not just because of what he did on the field, but because of who he was off of it.
Goodbye, #28. Thank you for everything.
Leave a Reply