Naiel Brooks
Naiel Brooks
About Naiel
Expert Analysis
Joshua Graham | Prep Redzone Scout
Naiel Brooks Naiel Brooks 5'8" | 140 lbs | LB/DB Hopewell | 2029 State NC had a tremendous freshman campaign, especially for a defensive back. He finished with 69 total tackles, 11 tackles for loss, and 6.5 sacks, numbers you don’t typically see from a ninth grader — let alone a DB. That production tells you everything about his versatility and toughness. Brooks isn’t just covering in space; he’s flying downhill, blitzing off the edge, and making plays behind the line of scrimmage. His willingness to mix it up in the run game and affect the quarterback shows advanced instincts and confidence for his age. If this is the foundation as a freshman, the ceiling for Brooks moving forward is extremely high.
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Read EvaluationWill Helms | Prep Redzone Scout
Brooks impact on the defensive side of the ball has been incredibly impressive, especially given his size. He’s beating offensive linemen twice his size with speed and impressive get off, leading to six sacks for Hopewell. Expect him to get in the weight room and beef up a bit more. His instincts against the run are excellent and he has the quickness to excel as both a blitzer and pass defender.
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Read EvaluationMatt Morrow | Prep Redzone Scout
I was impressed with Naiel overall – he picked up a key sack from his linebacker position in the first quarter, forcing the Vikings to a field goal attempt instead of a potential touchdown on their opening drive. Naiel has some good speed, and Titans defensive coordinator Anthony Hackett gives Naiel some latitude to make some decisions defensively that you typically don’t see from a high school freshman. Naiel will be a player to watch throughout his career.
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Read EvaluationWill Helms | Prep Redzone Scout
I don’t know a ton about Brooks, but I have heard of the instant impact he’s made as a freshman. He’s anchoring the Hopewell defense, racking up tackles and stuffing the box score in other ways as well. He’s a guy I hope to see in person, as I’ve heard his movement skills are excellent.
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