In his words, Georgia Tech defensive tackle Djimon Brooks’ decision to use his extra COVID-19 year of eligibility was a “no-brainer.”
His primary motivation, he said, was to see the hard work that he had put in with his teammates come to fruition in his second senior year.
Wednesday, Brooks was three days away from being able to get his first returns on the investment, as the Yellow Jackets open the season against Northern Illinois on Saturday at Bobby Dodd Stadium.
“It’s definitely a special opportunity anytime you get to step out here on the field,” the former walk-on said. “It’s a special opportunity. I’m definitely excited to take advantage of this upcoming season.”
Brooks, who has started 12 games in the past two seasons and last season led defensive tackles with 30 tackles, is playing lighter than he had previously. He is listed at 286 pounds and his actual weight is “around there,” he said. He had previously played at as much as 315 pounds.
“It’s been more about body composition, making sure I’ve got the right body composition, building a lot more muscle,” he said.
Brooks earned his degree in the spring in economics and is pursuing a second undergraduate degree in his sixth year on campus. His 12-credit schedule is arranged so that he only has classes on Tuesdays and Thursdays.
“It’s always funny seeing guys get ready for class (after practice) and you’re just sitting there,” he said. “They’re like, Don’t you go to class? And you’re like, No, I graduated.”
