Overlooked Senior Running Back: Taelen Brooks

Vic Castillo July 5, 2020 @ 07:00 AM

Today, we will be taking a look at a senior RB/ATH out of Woodland Hills High School in Pittsburgh, PA. Brooks currently sits as our 13th best running back in the state but there’s more to this prospect than just his feet. He’s a versatile prospect who also contributes on defense, playing outside linebacker as well as returning kicks for Woodland Hills. [player_tooltip player_id="27362" first="Taelen" last="Brooks"] - 6’1", 180lbs, c/o 2021 Twitter: @TaeBrooks9 Hudl Profile: <a href="https://www.hudl.com/profile/11486061/Taelen-Brooks">https://www.hudl.com/profile/11486061/Taelen-Brooks</a> The first thing that jumps off the film is his build, which tends to be unnatural for a running back. His frame, somewhat thin and angular, gives off that he’s more suited to play defensive back or wide receiver. One thing is for certain, Woodland Hills wants the ball in his hands, no matter the position and for good reason. Woodland Hills likes to run Brooks primarily out of the gun, giving him a little more space to work with playing off either side of the quarterback. He runs with a purpose and wants to get upfield in a flash. He’s a lot tougher than his build suggests, being capable of running between the tackles and fighting for extra yardage. Where he excels is in space and attacking the second level of the defense. He’s a smart player who knows when to bounce runs outside and setting his blocks up when in the open field. This kid can really fly when he opens up his stride. If he goes untouched into the second level of the defense and can turn on his jets, most defensive backs will have a hard time catching up. He’s active in the passing game, being involved in frequent screen plays throughout his junior season. There’s no doubting Brooks belongs on the football field but at what position can he flourish will be the question scouts will wonder as his recruiting journey begins. Brooks has a tendency to run with a high pad level, leaving more of a target when running between the tackles. That great second-level, breakaway speed doesn’t always translate to great change of direction or burst behind the line of scrimmage, Brooks isn’t the most elusive player in space, he’s more of a slippery, one cut back who would prefer to burn you with his speed.   Overall [player_tooltip player_id="27362" first="Taelen" last="Brooks"] is a talented prospect who undoubtedly is special with the ball in his hands. His contributions at all three phases of the game make him a coach’s dream player. Keep a lookout this upcoming season to see Brooks’ continued development.