With the exception of Ben Roethlisberger the university of Miami, OH aren't known for having a long standing history of NFL players, but when they put forth a good prospect they tend to be a fantastic NFL player. This is how I feel about Brandon Brooks, a 6'5", 343 lb monster who would be a fantastic RG for any team needing a powerful player at the position.
I've been looking at a lot of this offensive linemen who are slated to be taken between the second and fifth round, and I can't help but see Brooks as a player who separates himself from the chaff. While it would likely take a 2nd round pick to ensure his services in Atlanta, he could be worth the price. He plays like a can opener, and though he didn't face the most stout of competition you could see the makings of a player who has the edge you want to see out of an NFL guard. Brooks is good at opening holes at the point of attack, but he has some issues too. If you're looking for a player to hit the second level and block in the open field he probably isn't the best option, as he lacks the speed and athleticism needed to fill such a role. However, in terms of a player who can make a gap in a hurry for Michael Turner to run through- he could be the best of the next level OL.
Mocking the Draft rank Brandon Brooks as the 4th best guard in the upcoming draft, just below Kelechi Osemele who I looked at a few weeks ago. I think this is a fair assessment, and if the Falcons were able to wait until the late second to get such a player I think it would be a major coup.
Is a big, strong kid who has some lateral quickness for his size but needs some technique work. Nevertheless, has some upside and can win consistently in the run game and pass game and looks like an NFL starter in an angle scheme to me.
At the end of the day he needs some work, like most second round prospects. However, he has a great potential and I see him with the ability to start immediately in the right situation.