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Purdue swipes ex-Cal RB from transfer portal
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Purdue’s running back room is adding some experience through the transfer portal.
Wednesday, the Boilermakers landed a commitment from former Cal running back Christopher Brooks. He brings a veteran aspect to West Lafayette and was the leading ball carrier for the Bears during the 2021 campaign.
It’s a much-needed addition for Purdue, which has owned a putrid rushing attack for most of Jeff Brohm’s tenure. The team’s ability to move the ball through the air, however, was what lifted the Boilers to an 8-4 year and a trip to the Music City Bowl this season.
Brohm talked at length about wanting to establish a more effective rushing attack at points throughout the year. That will be the same mindset entering the 2022 season, and there should be plenty of options for Purdue now with Brooks in the mix.
Last season, Brooks tallied 607 yards and 4 touchdowns on 116 carries and also added 131 yards and 3 touchdowns receiving for Cal. He will be a graduate transfer with 1 year of eligibility remaining.
In 4 seasons at Cal, Brooks is credited with 1,734 yards and 14 touchdowns on the ground. His most productive year came in 2019, when he piled up 914 rushing yards, 166 receiving yards and accounted for 12 total touchdowns.
Brooks is the latest in a slew of transfer portal commitments for Purdue this week. The Boilers have also received commitments from former Iowa receiver Tyrone Tracy Jr., ex-Auburn receiver Elijah Canion, former FIU offensive lineman Sione Finau and ex-Kansas State defensive back Tee Denson.
Dustin grew up in the heart of Big Ten country and has been in sports media since 2010. He has been covering Big Ten football since 2014. You can follow him on Twitter: @SchutteCFB