Report: Texas running back Jonathon Brooks undergoes hernia surgery following Alamo Bowl

When Bijan Robinson and Roschon Johnson decided to opt out of the Alamo Bowl, many thought Jonathon Brooks would get carries as the Texas lead back. Keilan Robinson instead got a majority of the playing time and now, we possibly now know why.

According to Horns247, Brooks underwent hernia surgery following the Longhorns’ loss to Washington. The injury has been bothering the young running back for some time now but Brooks decided to wait until the offseason to get the surgery done.

Brooks only received six carries in the Alamo Bowl, rushing for 18 yards and a touchdown. He also got into the end zone via a pass from Quinn Ewers, totaling two receptions for 37 yards.

There is no timeline available for Brooks to return but the hope is he can participate in spring practice for Texas.

Opportunity will be knocking for Brooks once he gets back healthy. Running back will be wide open for head coach Steve Sarkisian next season with the two feature backs leaving the program in favor of the NFL Draft.

Nobody will truly be able to replace what Robinson and Roschon Johnson did for Texas, both on and off the field. However, Brooks is one of the candidates to help bridge the gap. In his 11 career games, there have been flashes, rushing for 340 yards on 51 carries.

Brooks is a former four-star prospect, coming out of the 2021 recruiting class. He was the No. 21 ranked running back in the class, committing to Texas out of in-state Hallettsville. Texas Tech was the only other Power Five program to extend an offer during his original recruitment.

Keilan Robinson should fight for the opportunity to get first-team carries, as will incoming five-star freshman Cedric Baxter. Freshman Jaydon Blue was reportedly going to transfer out before having a change of heart and returning for 2023.