Karl Brooks ranked top ten in sacks, hits, hurries, batted passes, and stops among rookies. He was Green Bay’s top defensive rookie and highest-graded defender in the playoffs against the 49ers.
Brooks exceeded expectations for a 6th rounder. In February, he shared during Cheeseheads Brazil livestream that he anticipated a Day 2 draft call. When it finally came, a weight lifted off his shoulders.
The Packers are transitioning to a 4-3 under Jeff Hafley. Brooks logged 378 defensive snaps last season, and that figure may rise. He’s proven to be reliable depth, and it wouldn’t be surprising if he earned a starting role.
Brooks totaled 25 pressures last year. He secured 4 sacks, 4 QB hits, and 17 hurries. Additionally, he ranked second among rookie defensive linemen in batted passes. Brooks also recorded 12 stops and forced a fumble.
I’d project Brooks to attain 8 sacks and 40 pressures in 2024. Entering his second year, he’ll enhance chemistry with teammates and further acclimate to the NFL speed, though he adjusted well in 2023.
Kenny Clark ranks among the league’s best defensive linemen, while Devonte Wyatt recorded 45 pressures last year. Brooks is expected to encounter numerous one-on-one matchups, providing ample opportunities to wreak havoc in the opposing backfield.
Brooks excels at preventing opposing linemen from engaging him. In a play against the Los Angeles Chargers, they adjusted their protection to his side. Despite this, he still found himself in a one-on-one situation. He effortlessly bypassed the right guard and sacked Justin Herbert.
In 2024, Green Bay will face 5 out of the 10 teams with the worst pass-blocking grades and 4 out of the 10 teams with the worst run-blocking grades from last year. Brooks will have ample opportunities to shine against these lines.
Brooks possesses the tools to elevate his game further. If he builds upon his rookie season, he could contend for the title of best defensive lineman in Green Bay.
