Seahawks add Jordyn Brooks at No. 27 overall
The Seattle Seahawks selected linebacker Jordyn Brooks out of Texas Tech in the first round of the 2020 NFL Draft, No. 27 overall.
Brooks was incredibly productive in the Big 12 last season. He was named a second-team All-American after accumulating 108 tackles, 20 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two fumble recoveries in 2019.
The speedy linebacker will likely see time in nickel packages early in his NFL career next to Bobby Wagner, as K.J. Wright will turn 31 this summer and is entering the final year of his contract.
After trading out of the first round four times from 2013 to 2017, Seattle has stayed put in the opening frame for three straight years.
Prospect Profile
School: Texas Tech
Height: 6-0
Weight: 240 lbs
Positives
- Intriguing combination of size and athleticism
- Makes efficient reads in run game
- Good lateral range to defend outside the tackles
- Solid pursuit and closing speed
- Reliable finisher when in position to make tackle
- Excellent production as four-year starter - 20 tackles for loss in 2019
Negatives
- Struggles to take on and disengage from offensive line blocks
- Not especially effective dropping into zone coverage
- Has athleticism for man coverage but lacks experience
Bottom Line
Brooks is an interesting linebacker prospect who should be an impact player in the run game from the outset of his pro career. With good range and pursuit speed but difficulty getting off blocks, he's best utilized in a run-and-chase role designed to keep him clean. Brooks' coverage abilities are unknown and thus require more of a projection, but his athleticism gives him the potential to develop into a three-down contributor.