Khamari Brooks

Physical Profile

Possesses an ideal frame for an EDGE rusher at 6-foot-3.5 and 235-245 pounds, with a nearly +6 wingspan that will aid in disengaging from blockers and expanding his tackling radius. [2, 3, 5, 6] As a two-sport standout who also excels in basketball, Brooks displays exceptional coordination, fluidity, and short-area quickness for a player his size. [3, 4, 16] His build suggests significant potential to add quality mass without sacrificing his explosive first step. His athleticism is not just potential; it translates directly to the field, allowing him to play in a two-point stance and effectively drop into coverage when needed. [3, 5]

Play Style

Brooks plays a high-motor, disruptive brand of football from the edge of the defense. He operates primarily out of a two-point stance, allowing him to maximize his explosive first step to pressure the quarterback. [3, 5] He shows well-timed hand usage to engage and shed blockers and displays impressive flexibility to bend the corner. [10, 18] His film shows a player who can take over games, as evidenced by his junior season highlights and dominant state championship performance. [8, 17]

Strengths

• Explosive first step and pass-rush instincts: Consistently threatens the edge with an explosive get-off, demonstrating the ideal knee bend to dip and rip around offensive tackles. [3, 5, 18] He shows the ability to win with both pure speed and by converting that speed to power, possessing natural knockback ability. [3, 5]
• Versatility and athletic coordination: His experience as a primary pass-catching tight end in a state championship-winning offense showcases elite hands, body control, and fluidity. [3, 4] This translates defensively, enabling him to drop into coverage comfortably and demonstrating superb redirection skills. [3, 5]
• Proven Production and Big-Game Performance: He was highly productive as a junior, logging 131 tackles, 17 TFLs, and 13 sacks. [17] He elevated his game in the GHSA 4A state championship, recording 8 tackles, 2.5 TFLs, and 1.5 sacks, demonstrating a clutch gene against top competition. [3, 17]

Areas to Improve

• Technique and move set refinement: While he can win with raw power and speed, he will need to continue developing a more diverse set of pass-rush moves and counter-moves to consistently defeat technically proficient offensive linemen at the collegiate level. [18]
• Adding Functional Strength: While he has natural power, he will need to continue adding mass and upper-body strength to his frame to consistently hold the edge against powerful run-blocking schemes in the SEC and to effectively execute a wider range of pass rush moves. [3, 5]

College Projection

Brooks projects as a multi-year starter at the 'Jack' outside linebacker or traditional defensive end position in a multiple-front defensive scheme. His athleticism and frame suggest he has the upside to be an immediate contributor on special teams and in situational pass-rushing packages as a true freshman. Given his developmental trajectory, he has the potential to develop into an All-Conference level player by his third year.

NFL Outlook

With a composite rating of 0.9331 and rankings as a top national prospect, Brooks profiles as a defender with significant NFL Draft upside. [3] His combination of length, athletic fluidity from a multi-sport background, and natural pass-rushing tools are highly coveted at the next level. [5] Continued development of his technique and strength throughout his college career could position him as a potential Day 1 or Day 2 NFL Draft selection.

Best Fit

Brooks is an excellent fit for a program like Georgia that utilizes a versatile, multiple-front defense. [3] This scheme will allow him to capitalize on his ability to rush the passer from a two-point stance while also leveraging his athleticism to set the edge in the run game and drop into coverage. A program with a strong strength and conditioning and player development record will be key to maximizing his considerable physical upside.