2014 NFL Combine Preview: Five Secondary Players to Watch

Sept 22, 2012; Tallahassee, Florida, USA; Florida State Seminoles defensive back

(31) celebrates after a defensive stop during the second half of the game against the Clemson Tigers at Doak Campbell Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Melina Vastola-USA TODAY Sports

2. Terrence Brooks (Safety)

School: Florida State
Watch to Watch: Speed Turn Drill, 40-time, Bench Press
2013 Stats: 56 tackles, eight tackles for loss, two interceptions, five passes defended, two forced fumbles
Met with Chiefs: Yes

Brooks was a free safety for the NCAA national champions, so no transition would be needed there for him. There is a problem with Brooks in that he is listed as being 5-11, the minimum threshold for Dorsey’s defensive backs size rule. How true is Brooks’ 5-11 listing?

His coverage instincts are very interesting to consider. Brooks is a converted cornerback who looks more natural in coverage as opposed to stopping the run. He’ll need a little bit of time to develop, so it is hard seeing him as a week one starter, but there’s an upside that’s intriguing with him.

Speed is unlikely to be an issue for Brooks, who could run in the low 4.4s. The lower he goes – potentially 4.42 – the higher he will climb my personal list of targets. Strength could be a problem for the under-200 pound Brooks. He’s listed at 197 pounds but that seems much bigger than what he looks like on film.

The kid makes plays, though. Very active and athletic in this video below.