With the 2012 NFL Combine in the rear-view mirror, the last month or so of scouting before the 2012 NFL Draft has arrived. In the next month, pro days will be held around the country as players look to leave one last positive impression on scouts with what they can do on the field (or in the weight room).
In addition to pro days, there are also pre-draft visits that will take place over the course of the next month. Teams can host up to 30 non-local players for visits as they try to better get to know certain prospects who could very well end up being drafted. The Detroit Lions held their first pre-draft visit today by bringing in Miami (Ohio) offensive lineman Brandon Brooks.
Tim Twentyman reports that Brooks is a versatile offensive lineman who impressed scouts at his pro day last week. He didn't receive a combine invite, so his pro day was an opportunity to show what he's got. The East-West Shrine Game also provided an opportunity for Brooks, and that is when he first had contact with the Lions.
Interestingly enough, Brooks grew up in Wisconsin and is a Green Bay Packers fan, but that doesn't mean he is biased against the Lions, as he likes what he sees from them going forward.
"It’s a little different being on this side of the lake," Brooks said with a laugh. "The Lions are definitely headed in the right direction and I can see them going deep into the playoffs next year."
Expect to hear plenty more about potential picks visiting the Lions in the coming weeks as the team continues to get ready for the draft.