Detroit Lions 2014 NFL Draft Prospect Profile: Terrence Brooks
Nov 24, 2012; Tallahassee, FL, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back Terrence Brooks (31) tackles Florida Gators running back Trey Burton (8) during the second half at Doak Campbell Stadium. The Gators won 37-26. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Liles-USA TODAY Sports
The SideLion Report NFL Draft Prospect Profile series gives an in-depth scouting analysis of college football players who could be on the Lions’ radar this spring.
Over the last several weeks, we’ve examined numerous first round candidates for the Lions. As the draft inches closer, SideLion Report will highlight prospects the franchise may be considering in the second round.
With two division rivals who have passing attacks that were among the top ten in 2013 (Chicago- fifth, Green Bay- sixth), it’s no secret the Lions need to improve the quality of their secondary. After pairing Ihedigbo with Quin, the Lions appear to be set in terms of starters at the safety position. However there is little in terms of quality depth on the roster. He may lack prototypical size, but Florida State’s Terrence Brooks’ impressive blend of athleticism and competitiveness make him an intriguing second day prospect.
After viewing three games (Clemson, Miami, Auburn), I gave Brooks a 6.8 grade (mid second round).
Here’s an excerpt from his scouting report:
Terrence Brooks – Safety – Florida State
Height: 5107 Weight: 198 40 Time: 4.42
NFL Comparison: Aaron Williams
Strong Points:
Outstanding overall athletic traits for the position with exceptional speed (fastest 40 time of all safeties at the combine). Has the range to play centerfielder role. Corner cover skills with the fluidity, balance and lateral agility to play tight M/M coverage all over the field. Attacks the run aggressively with impressive burst to close and showcases some striking power. Highly competitive with good football IQ.
Weak Points:
Lacks ideal height and weight. Will need to add size and strength to hold up at the next level. Size will present M/M limitations when covering tight ends. Ball skills need improving – doesn’t time jumps well and leaves a lot of interceptions on the field. Inconsistent tackler – goes for the big hit, leaves his feet and misses tackles he should make.
Summary:
Brooks, who played mostly special teams and backup DB as an underclassman, was a productive starter his final two seasons at free safety. A three star recruit, Brooks lacks ideal size, but is a tremendous athlete, finishing among the top of all combine participants at his position in the 40 yard dash (4.42), vertical jump (38”), and broad jump (9’11”). Brooks’ outstanding athletic attributes show up on tape, particularly with respect to his cover skills, which is critical for safeties in today’s NFL. His upper echelon speed gives him the range to play the centerfielder role and he possesses the fluidity and balance to play M/M coverage from Press or Zone. He runs the alley hard with impressive burst to close versus the run and showcases surprising striking power. Brooks’ lack of size will be difficult to overcome, but his competitiveness and cover skills give him starter potential if he can improve his tackling discipline and ball skills. Mid-second round prospect with upside.
I probably have Brooks graded higher than he actually may get drafted, but part of the evaluation process is projecting where a player will end up over time. I’m a firm believer that today’s NFL safeties need to have excellent cover skills and Brooks has that ability. He has the skill set to contribute early in nickel packages and on special teams, and the potential to be a good starter in year two or three.
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