The inclination to shrug off Brooks’ production based on level of competition -- or because of questions about his positional fit -- might be a mistake. Brooks’ snap quickness, footwork, hand usage and motor are all translatable play qualities. His movement and counters are intuitive, allowing for quick access into the backfield. Against the pass, he frequently beat tackles as a bull rusher off the edge. Brooks has the size of a three-technique but the versatility and athleticism to move around a defensive front. He flashes disruptive, three-down talent as a future starter in a one-gap scheme.
Sims is an undersized tight end who will give it a go as a blocker but is not strong enough or technically sound enough to handle in-line or lead-blocking duties. He’s a talented athlete who has the acceleration to uncover versus man coverage, the speed to threaten the over the top of linebackers and the talent to create after the catch. The lack of a clean positional fit limits his opportunities, but there is clearly talent to mold.
