Predicting each Steelers 2020 rookie’s breakout game
By Andrew Falce
Antoine Brooks
Antoine Brooks is a weird player to project out. He has some position versatility, as evident by his ability to excel closer to the line. In most aspects, he looks like an undersized LB, yet the Steelers seem set to play him at SS. His calling card early should be special teams though.
In the week five contest against the Eagles, Brooks proves he can shine in that department. With the Steelers trailing 14-10 late in the second quarter, Brooks blows up and blocks a punt, leading to a Steelers score. Towards the end of the game, on the coverage unit, he pops Boston Scott at the 8-yard line, forcing the Eagles to have to march down the field to score. He even sees a few defensive snaps but gets bullied by Dallas Goedert in the red zone for a TD.
In all, he has two stops on special teams, one on defense, and a forced fumble. Based on his career trajectory, it’s doubtful he develops into a key starter on defense. Special teams need able bodies though, so having a stud on special teams is well worth the sixth-round investment.