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ILB Keith Brooking, Atlanta Falcons

HT: 6-2, WT: 245, Born: 10-30-1975, College: Georgia Tech, Drafted: Round 1, Pick 12

2008 Projections

Best Case

If the Falcon offense continues to struggle, Keith Brooking should get enough tackle opportunity to remain in a deep LB2 tier. Brooking hasn't been quite as effective in the middle as he'd been on the weakside, but the new defensive scheme may allow him to rack up tackles if he remains in the middle all year long in an every down role. Brooking isn't likely to finish in the top 12, but he does have reasonable upside if things break well for him.

Worst Case

Brooking may struggle to stay at MLB all season, with rookie Curtis Lofton likely to mount a stiff challenge sooner than later. If Brooking moves outside, there's no guarantee he won't split time with Stephen Nicholas or sit during nickel packages. As a part-time OLB, Brooking has no IDP upside and may finish outside the top 50 linebackers.

Outlook

With Lofton in the fold, there's a strong possibility that Brooking's playing time may be limited whether he ultimately lands in the middle or on the weak side. Brooking's 2007 numbers weren't very inspiring in standard league systems and there are too many questions to trust that they will improve in 2008. Brooking may finish in the LB2 tier this season, but he's too risky to roster as more than a LB4 until his role is better defined.

Writeups last modified: 2008-05-01 13:35:44