2011 NFL Draft Scouting Report: Brooks Reed

Strengths:
  • Relentless in pursuit
  • Lower and upper body strength
  • Speed with a burst
  • Reliable tackler
  • Proven pass rusher with a few moves
  • Smart with high football IQ
  • Good character with leadership qualities
  • Experienced 3-year starter
  • Factor on special teams



    Weaknesses:
  • Does not excel against the run
  • Struggles changing directions
  • Needs to do a better job getting off blocks
  • Might be a positional ‘tweener

    Summary: Brooks Reed has watched his stock rise during the draft process, mostly due to a strong showing at the Combine which lessened concerns he was stuck between being a 4-3 defensive end and 3-4 outside linebacker. I still question if he would work at end, but he is a hard-working prospect. NFL teams often are drawn to guys like him who have a strong motor and high effort level. They are also very interested in anyone who can wreak havoc on the opposing quarterback, which Reed has proven he can do.

    Player Comparison: Anthony Spencer. I like this better than the comparison of Clay Matthews, whom Reed could probably be a stunt double for. Spencer was another ‘tweener coming out of Purdue with similar triangle numbers, and questions about his ability to change directions and shed blockers. Both players saw their stock shoot way up in their final season although Spencer was more productive in his last year at Purdue.





    RELATED LINKS:


    2011 NFL Mock Draft: Greg’s | Walt’s


    2011 NFL Draft Prospect Rankings


    2011 NFL Draft Scouting Reports








    NFL Power Rankings - Feb. 22


    2024 NFL Mock Draft - Feb. 21


    Fantasy Football Rankings - Feb. 19


    NFL Picks - Feb. 12