Everyone realizes that NFL general managers earn their paychecks with their level of success in the later rounds of the draft and uncovering those hidden gems that can push a team over the top. With the NFL’s scouting process in full swing and many names being brought to the forefront who weren’t exactly on the tip of anyone’s tongues when the collegiate season started, this segment called Under the Radar will continue to explore just what scouts find attractive about certain prospects who may be available beyond the glamour rounds of the draft.

Dorian Brooks was named to the Third-Team All-FCS roster for his performance this past season with James Madison and First-Team All-Colonial Athletic Conference as well. Even with these accolades, Brooks may be the most overlooked small school draft prospect in this year’s class. The athleticism that he possesses to get out on a pulling block and engage with linebackers is phenomenal as he maintains his balance and never looks at all uncomfortable getting a hat on a hat downfield. Brooks has the tenacity to earn himself a spot on an NFL roster once drafted as well with a great work ethic and high level of character.

Size (or lack thereof) was the big question coming to the NFL Scouting Combine for this young man, but at 6’2” and bulking up from a mere 285lbs. in the preseason to 306lbs. at the weigh-ins, he may have boosted his stock a bit. Still the elite level of strength questions have to persist even after he was able to hoist 26 reps of 225lbs. at the combine. Brooks needs to play with better leverage inside and get lower than the defender that he is taking on to drive opposing players into a different zip code. Brooks might be a bit of project as far as technique is concerned, but the raw tools are all present to allow him to develop into an NFL player. In addition to the potential that he possesses, Brooks will also present quite the bargain for any team needing depth along the offensive front in rounds six or seven.

A number of names will be called during April’s NFL Draft that seem to be from out of left field, but don’t let Dorian Brooks’ be one of them. Keep looking out for more Under the Radar players shooting up draft boards or quietly lurking in the depth of this class that could make a huge impact over the coming years on Sundays.

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