Antoine Brooks is looking for more playing time in a healthy 2017

Profiles in Terpage is back for 2017. Last week, we focused on the defensive line; this week, we’re taking a look at the linebackers.

Antoine Brooks, LB, No. 23

Height: 5’11
Weight: 223 lbs.
Year: Sophomore
Hometown: Lanham, Maryland
High school: Duval

How he got to College Park

Brooks played both quarterback and defensive back in high school, and was named first team All-Metro as a junior. While on his way to an All-Metro Offensive Player of the Year award, he suffered a gruesome ankle injury that cut his season short after just six games.

Recruiting interest in Brooks declined following his injury, and he didn’t hear from Maryland until close to National Signing Day. He committed on National Signing Day, becoming another player in the #DMVtoUMD movement.

Career highlight

Brooks suited up in last year’s season opener against Howard, recording two tackles just 10 months after he hurt his ankle.

2017 prospectus

Brooks appeared in seven games last season, mainly playing on special teams. Unlike last year, Brooks will have had a healthy offseason, which should make him less tentative on the field.

This season, how much he plays depends on what happens with 2016 starter Shane Cockerille, who was ruled academically ineligible before the Quick Lane Bowl and has not been ruled eligible since. If it stays this way, Brooks will be fighting with Jalen Brooks (no relation) and others for the second spot in DJ Durkin’s 4-2-5 scheme, but if Cockerille is ruled eligible he should mainly see time on special teams again.

Dream season

Brooks impresses the coaches during summer practice, and either starts or becomes the first linebacker off the bench to start the season. With Jermaine Carter Jr. graduating, he puts himself in position to start at linebacker in 2018.

Up next

This freshman hails from Michigan but played high school football in Florida and California.

Sabadahut joins Denton5, Scaletta and jatk13 on the board this week.