Bucky Brooks Profile

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks explains the key to Kansas City's perfection. Plus, the NFL's top five rivalries and the amazing year-over-year turnaround of one defense.

Who's leading the MVP race? How about Defensive Player of the Year? Which coach is doing the best job? And who are the top rookies on each side of the ball? Midway through the 2024 NFL season, Bucky Brooks provides his picks for the seven major individual awards -- and additional names to watch.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks ranks the top five defensive tackles in the NFL today. Who's No. 1? Plus, an honest assessment of Dak Prescott's struggles and analysis of what Diontae Johnson brings to the Ravens.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks says the Colts should bench QB Anthony Richardson in favor of Joe Flacco. Plus, thoughts on the Chiefs' trade for DeAndre Hopkins and Jerod Mayo's controversial critique of the Patriots.

Boasting the four highest point differentials in the entire NFL, the NFC North is clearly the league's best division right now. So ... who's poised to finish on top? Bucky Brooks ranks the Bears, Lions, Packers and Vikings, providing arguments for and against each team.

Is No. 3 overall pick Drake Maye truly ready to take the starting reins in New England? Bucky Brooks explains why the Patriots' timing makes sense. Plus, a team in turmoil and a defense everyone needs to stop sleeping on.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks spotlights an emerging superstar at wide receiver and a defender who's playing the game at the highest possible level. Plus, a would-be contender with an Achilles' heel that might not be fixable.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks examines what's going wrong with No. 1 overall pick Caleb Williams ... and what's going right with No. 2 overall pick Jayden Daniels. Plus, a look at the NFL's hottest defensive scheme.

Nine quarterbacks are 2-0 on the young season, and five of them are not playing for the teams that drafted them. How do these surprising signal-callers stack up? Bucky Brooks provides his trust rankings. Plus, the resurgence of a prolific sack artist.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks explains why new Chargers coach Jim Harbaugh is right at home in today's NFL. Plus, analysis on hyped rookie Marvin Harrison Jr.'s dud debut and Klint Kubiak's inspiring offensive showing in New Orleans.

As the 2024 NFL season gets underway, Bucky Brooks spotlights one overlooked team that could make a Super Bowl push and one hyped powerhouse that could fall flat. Plus, five players who appear poised to bounce back.

Which overlooked rookies showed legitimate potential when they stepped into the preseason spotlight? Bucky Brooks highlights 10 newbies who popped, including Saints fifth-round QB Spencer Rattler.

Sauce Gardner might hold the title of NFL CB1 right now, but Bucky Brooks says Derek Stingley is coming for the throne in 2024. Plus, an offensive innovator who could really shake up the league and analysis of one NFC team that's clearly going for it.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks says the Dallas Cowboys and New York Jets face immense pressure in the 2024 NFL season, with a similar narrative emerging: Win now, or else ... Can these two high-profile teams deliver?

Will Raheem Morris push the Falcons to the top of the NFC South in his first year on the job in Atlanta? Bucky Brooks ranks the eight new head coaches in the 2024 NFL season by their chances to win a division title right off the bat.

Will Jordan Love's four-year, $220 million extension pay off, or will the Packers come to regret it? Bucky Brooks takes a microscope to six NFL quarterbacks who landed lucrative new contracts this offseason, ranking them by their expected impact in 2024. 

Which teams are currently equipped to make a run at the Lombardi Trophy, not just in the 2024 season but over the next few years? Bucky Brooks ranks his top eight championship foundations. Where do C.J. Stroud and the upstart Texans slot in?

In the wake of Brandon Aiyuk's trade request, Bucky Brooks identifies five potential team fits for the star receiver. Plus, one highly successful young coach who just doesn't get the love he deserves.

Could Lions quarterback Jared Goff take home MVP honors in 2024? How about Mike McCarthy flipping the script in Dallas and winning Coach of the Year? Bucky Brooks provides his long-shot picks for seven major individual awards in the coming season.

Which up-and-coming defensive players could achieve stardom in the 2024 NFL season? Bucky Brooks spotlights 11 youngsters on his All-Breakout Team, with two different AFC teams boasting a pair of selections.

Which up-and-coming offensive players could achieve stardom in the 2024 NFL season? Bucky Brooks spotlights 11 youngsters on his All-Breakout Team, including last year's No. 1 overall pick and a pair of pass catchers on one consistent contender.

Will Calvin Johnson's single-season receiving record fall in 2024? In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks ranks his top five candidates to top Megatron's mark. Plus, why the hype building around a star defensive player is warranted. 

Heading toward the 2024 NFL season, the AFC South oozes intrigue. How do the Colts, Jaguars, Texans and Titans stack up against each other? Bucky Brooks provides a divisional hierarchy, plus each team's biggest offseason addition/loss.

Will Russell Wilson or Justin Fields lead Pittsburgh in 2024? Is Gardner Minshew or Aidan O'Connell the guy in Las Vegas? Bucky Brooks provides his predictions on this offseason's two TRUE quarterback battles. Plus, our resident scout's thoughts on the potential elimination of OTAs.

Can the Caleb Williams-led Bears live up to the growing hype? In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks spotlights a critical figure in Chicago. Plus, an in-depth look at the trendy defensive scheme that could take the league by storm.

Could the Chargers and Rams meet in Super Bowl LIX? Bucky Brooks believes Los Angeles might become the NFL's most interesting city in the 2024 season. Plus, in the wake of Jared Goff's $212 million extension, one question springs to mind: Is the Lions quarterback worth the money?

Which offensive personnel grouping could be having a moment in the NFL? Which teams have one of the league's top five pass-catching groups? Bucky Brooks answers those questions in this edition of the Scout's Notebook.

Bucky Brooks provides his five favorite classes from the 2024 NFL Draft, with a pair of divisions claiming two teams apiece. Plus, one haul that left our resident scout scratching his head.

Bucky Brooks breaks down Round 1 of the 2024 NFL Draft, providing pick-by-pick analysis for every selection, from No. 1 to No. 32.

In his fourth and final mock of the 2024 NFL Draft, Bucky Brooks has Texas DT Byron Murphy II as the first defender off the board. Plus, Joe Burrow gets a new wide receiver in Cincinnati. Check out the full first-round forecast, 1-32.

Will Brock Bowers be a top-five tight end at the NFL level in the near future? Bucky Brooks digs into the 2024 NFL Draft class to find All-Pro and Pro Bowl caliber prospects, along with five he sees as overachievers.

Bucky Brooks unveils his final ranking of the top five prospects at each position ahead of the 2024 NFL Draft. Whose stock is up/down entering the final stretch?

Brock Bowers is widely viewed as one of the most talented prospects available in the 2024 NFL Draft. So why is he being mocked all over the board? Bucky Brooks takes a closer look at the Georgia tight end. Plus, five more first-round wild cards.

Superior athleticism is enticing, but it's NOT everything. Surveying the prospect crop for the 2024 NFL Draft, resident scout Bucky Brooks spotlights 10 players whose tape trumps subpar testing. Overlook these guys at your own risk.

Are the Green Bay Packers poised to break through as true Super Bowl contenders in the 2024 season? In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks assesses recent comments made by rising star Jordan Love. Plus, potential team fits for former No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson.

In his third mock of the 2024 NFL Draft, Bucky Brooks projects the Patriots will turn to J.J. McCarthy at quarterback and the Chiefs will close out Round 1 by finding a L'Jarius Sneed replacement. Check out the full first-round forecast, 1-32.

How much will Saquon Barkley boost the Eagles' offense in their chase for the NFC East title? Bucky Brooks spotlights one free agency move that will impact each divisional race in the 2024 NFL season.

Bucky Brooks revisits his ranking of the top five 2024 NFL Draft prospects at each position. Who rose and fell in Edition 2.0? Which players made it in for the first time?

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks believes Russell Wilson's relocation to Pittsburgh could put the veteran QB back on a Hall of Fame track. Plus, five underrated free-agent signings that you should NOT overlook.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks highlights 10 NFL Scouting Combine standouts who should force scouts back to the game tape. Which quarterback prospect is deserving of a second look?

In Bucky Brooks' second mock of the 2024 NFL Draft, who is the second quarterback selected? Who's the second wide receiver off the board? Check out the full first-round projection, 1-32.

Will J.J. McCarthy wow teams in the coming weeks? Bucky Brooks zeroes in on 10 prospects who could be on the rise between now and the 2024 NFL Draft.

With the 2023 NFL campaign in the books, it's time to look forward to next season -- and beyond. Who currently has the biggest Super Bowl window? Bucky Brooks provides his ranking of the top eight contenders for the next few Lombardi Trophies.

Bucky Brooks provides his first look at the top five 2024 NFL Draft prospects at each position. How does he stack the quarterbacks? Who is his RB1?

With the loaded San Francisco 49ers facing off against the defending champion Kansas City Chiefs, the stage is set for an epic title bout in Las Vegas. So, who has the MOST at stake in Super Bowl LVIII? Bucky Brooks provides his ranking, spotlighting 10 key individuals.

Championship Sunday offers a pair of enticing matchups: Kansas City Chiefs at Baltimore Ravens, followed by Detroit Lions at San Francisco 49ers. What is each remaining team's trump card? Achilles' heel? Bucky Brooks has the answers in the Scout's Notebook.

In his first mock of the 2024 NFL Draft, Bucky Brooks forecasts an early run on pass catchers, while the Rams scoop up a potential Matthew Stafford successor. Check out the full first-round projection, 1-32.

Which fresh faces have defined the 2023 NFL season? Bucky Brooks reveals his All-Rookie Team, highlighting 25 of the best newbies on offense, defense and special teams. Which two teams boast a whopping FOUR selections apiece?

Could a rookie receiver help guide the upstart Packers on a thrilling postseason run? Which young defender might give the scuffling Chiefs a January boost? In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks identifies one X-factor for each of the 14 NFL playoff teams.

Bucky Brooks ranks the top five rookie classes of the 2023 NFL season. Houston's C.J. Stroud-led group unsurprisingly makes the cut, but the Texans do NOT claim the No. 1 spot.

As the 2023 NFL regular season winds down, Bucky Brooks spotlights 10 players who broke out in Year 2. The list includes a pair of bell-cow running backs and three playmaking corners.

As the 2023 NFL regular season winds down, Bucky Brooks spotlights 10 players who truly capitalized on a contract season, inherently putting themselves in position to break the bank in 2024 free agency. Which quarterback makes the list?

Are the Browns serious postseason players with Joe Flacco under center? Is Justin Fields still the quarterback for the Bears to build around? In advance of Sunday's Chicago-Cleveland showdown, Bucky Brooks explores two fascinating storylines at the game's most important position.

No wide receiver has ever earned MVP honors, but Bucky Brooks says Tyreek Hill could -- and SHOULD -- change that. Plus, a look at the Chiefs' offensive struggles and Mike Evans' Hall of Fame candidacy.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks digs into the potential Game of the Year: 49ers at Eagles. Plus, the driving force behind Denver's inspiring turnaround and a look at the art of scripting plays via "the first 15."

Coach of the Year is emerging as one of the more compelling award races in the 2023 NFL season. So, who are the top five candidates? Bucky Brooks provides his ranking. Plus, an examination of Sam Howell's viability as a true franchise quarterback.

After C.J. Stroud provided one of the most transcendent rookie showings in memory, Bucky Brooks identifies one of the Houston Texans quarterback's finest traits. Plus, a ranking of the four teams in the NFL's best division.

"Defenses win championships." How much does this age-old adage apply in today's offense-driven NFL? Well, Bucky Brooks spotlights five Ds that CAN spark a run to the Lombardi Trophy. Plus, the midseason Coach of the Year and the secret to A.J. Brown's success.

Who are the biggest game-planning nightmares in the NFL today? Bucky Brooks spotlights five players at five different positions. Plus, analysis on Brandon Staley's unexpected flaw and another fruitful trade for the Eagles.

Are the Lions legit Super Bowl contenders? Why has the Browns' defense emerged as one of the NFL's best units? What is the key to the Dolphins' electric ground game? Bucky Brooks has the answers in this edition of the Scout's Notebook.

Is Brock Purdy a true franchise quarterback in San Francisco? Is Bill Belichick on borrowed time in New England? Did the Jaguars just uncover an unconventional advantage in London? Bucky Brooks provides answers in this edition of the Scout's Notebook.

With four Sundays in the books, we're essentially at the quarter mark of the 2023 NFL regular season. Of the eight division leaders, which one is the most secure in its standing? The most surprising? The most suspect? Bucky Brooks has the answers.

In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks spotlights one draft class that's truly laying the foundation for an NFL franchise. Plus, an early look at the top contenders in what could be a special Defensive Player of the Year race.

Is Justin Fields on borrowed time as the Bears' starting quarterback? In the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks explores a hot-button issue in Chicago. Plus, Eric Bieniemy's early impact on the Commanders and a fascinating innovation in special teams.

Is this year's Brock Purdy ... former No. 2 overall pick Zach Wilson? In this edition of the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks says Jets coach Robert Saleh should employ his former team's blueprint. Plus, Jessie Bates III's rare value and the Dolphins' new cheat code.

With Aaron Rodgers no longer in Green Bay, is everyone sleeping on a well-rounded Packers team with serious potential in the NFC race? Bucky Brooks sure thinks so. Plus, one widely regarded AFC contender that could be a paper tiger.

The 2022 Kansas City Chiefs received widespread contributions from first-year players en route to the Super Bowl title. Which teams could get a significant boost from their newbies in 2023? Bucky Brooks spotlights five rookie classes that can shape this season.

2023 feels like the Year of the Defensive Tackle. With that in mind, Bucky Brooks ranks his top five players at the position. Where does current Chiefs holdout Chris Jones slot? Plus, a striking trend at wide receiver and the emerging bromance between Aaron Rodgers and Zach Wilson.

Anthony Richardson will begin his rookie season long on potential but short on collegiate experience. In the Scout's Notebook, Bucky Brooks examines the challenges awaiting Richardson. Plus, can the Jaguars hit a rare statistical trifecta? 

No player enters this season under more pressure than Dak Prescott. Does the Cowboys QB have what it takes to end Dallas' 27-year Super Bowl drought? Is Eric Bieniemy's coaching style a legit problem? Bucky Brooks explores those questions in the Scout's Notebook.

In the wake of Sean Payton's headline-grabbing comments, the NFL spotlight shines bright on Denver? Can the Broncos meet their new coach's expectations? Plus, a potential star turn in Kansas City and a potential savior in Minnesota.

Is Bill Belichick ... on the hot seat?! It's hard to fathom, but Bucky Brooks says the Patriots coach is entering a make-or-break season in New England. Plus, five rookies our resident scout can't wait to watch in training camp and the preseason.

As the debate rages on about whether teams should be willing to pay top-of-market prices for running backs, Bucky Brooks reveals a list of 10 RBs that he views as the engine of their respective offenses.

Is there any combo of defensive tackles more imposing than the Commanders' pair of Daron Payne and Jonathan Allen? Bucky Brooks ranks the top combos at 11 key position groups ahead of the 2023 NFL season.

Heading into the 2023 NFL season, one division appears more tightly packed than the rest. So, how will a wide-open NFC North race between the Bears, Lions, Packers and Vikings actually play out? Bucky Brooks provides a pecking order, and No. 1 might surprise you.

Which offenses and defenses are poised for significant improvement in the 2023 NFL season? Resident scout Bucky Brooks spotlights four units on each side of the ball that will make the biggest jump this fall.

Is there a defensive player who impacts the game more than Micah Parsons? What makes Justin Jefferson such a force at receiver? Bucky Brooks ranks the top 10 non-quarterback franchise building blocks in the NFL heading into the 2023 season.

With the Heat and the Panthers simultaneously vying for championships, Miami is currently the sports capital of America. Can the Dolphins live up to the hype? Bucky Brooks explores. Plus, a potential superstar receiver and an interesting commentary on NFL head coaches.

Which up-and-coming defensive players are poised for stardom in the 2023 NFL season? Bucky Brooks spotlights 11 names to know on his All-Breakout Team. Do the Eagles have ANOTHER young stud? Which NFC South franchise boasts two selections?

Which up-and-coming offensive players are poised for stardom in the 2023 NFL season? Bucky Brooks spotlights 11 names to know on his All-Breakout Team -- and one storied franchise boasts a pair of selections.