The Green Bay Packers' running back Chris Brooks scored his first touchdown of the 2024 season and marked his first touchdown ever in the NFL on December 23, 2024, during the Monday Night Football face-off against the New Orleans Saints at Lambeau Field. This momentous occasion came during the Week 16 showdown, where Brooks scored from just one yard out, contributing to the Packers' impressive 21-0 lead over their rivals.
The run was significant, not only because it was Brooks' first touchdown, but it was also symbolic of the hard work he has put in since being undrafted out of BYU just the previous year. Having played 22 games prior to this season, Brooks seized the moment, finally getting on the scoreboard after being with the organization since September, when he was signed to the 53-man roster.
On his 33rd touch of the season, Brooks showcased not only his running skills but also his versatility. He entered the game with 22 rushes for 101 yards and 10 receptions for 67 yards up to this point, displaying his capability not just on running but also as a pass-catching back, all the meanwhile contributing significantly to the team’s pass protection strategies as well.
This touchdown makes Brooks the sixth player on the Packers to score rushing touchdowns this season, joining notable names like Josh Jacobs and Jordan Love. With the Packers now accumulating 18 rushing touchdowns this season, Brooks' addition to the statistics demonstrates the depth of talent within their backfield.
This season, Brooks has had to adapt and make adjustments on the fly. After seeing limited action with the Miami Dolphins last year, where he played nine games, joining the Packers and finally getting his moment has brought jubilation among coaching staff and fans alike.
The game marked not just another ordinary matchup but also highlighted Brooks' emergent role within the team. The Packers' lead over the Saints, coupled with his recent performance, paved the way for greater opportunities moving forward, especially with the Packers chasing playoff positioning as the season progresses.
Brooks handled the one-yard handoff with precision, capitalizing on the opportunity presented to him as part of the Packers' potent offensive strategy. This touchdown, celebrated by teammates, fans, and coaches alike, not only serves as an uplifting milestone for Brooks but also emphasizes the positive environment the Packers have cultivated. Coach Matt LaFleur expressed pride for Brooks, lauding the effort he brings to the field.
Sitting at 14 points up at the game, the Packers had the advantage, and getting Brooks involved seemed like the right move, particularly with the Saints struggling on defense with numerous injuries and inconsistencies. The Packers had been leveraging their running game effectively, which led to Brooks being able to sew his name onto the scoreboard at such a key moment.
Bearing tactical advantages due to the Saints missing key players, such as Alvin Kamara and Chris Olave, the onus was on the Packers to make the most of the situation. Many expected Brooks to see more looks throughout the game, corroborated by Vegas, which had him as one of the prime players to score anytime during the match at odds of +500. Oddsmakers accurately anticipated the shift back toward the run game as the game drew on, allowing Brooks the chance to shine.
The Packers and their fans will undoubtedly relish the moment as Brooks continues to grow and adapt within this competitive league. With 2024 still young, there are plenty of opportunities left for Brooks to make his mark, and fans will be watching closely for more highlights from this rising star.
The Packers’ offensive capabilities will aim to stay balanced as Brooks moves forward, with the team continuing to build upon their current momentum, and Brooks' first career touchdown being the firestarter for what many hope will be even greater achievements this season.
